Coil winders, tapers, and finishers wind wire around forms to create coils used in motors, transformers, and other electrical equipment. It is hands-on, in demand, and you can start with a high school education. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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You wind wire or tape around forms, bobbins, or cores to create coils for electrical equipment. You inspect materials and finished coils to catch defects early. You monitor your work and the equipment to keep production on track. You handle and move materials throughout the process. You identify problems by listening to instructions and asking questions. The work requires attention to detail and the ability to follow technical specifications. Most of your time is spent at a workstation performing repetitive, precise tasks.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers earn a median of $48,220 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is softer here. Employment is projected to fall 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, though there are still about 1,200 openings a year from turnover.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. You will learn the specific skills on the job through hands-on training from experienced coil winders. Some employers offer formal apprenticeships or training programs that combine classroom instruction with supervised work. You should be comfortable with basic math and reading technical diagrams. Start by applying to manufacturers of motors, transformers, and electrical components. Many hire entry-level workers and provide the training you need to succeed.
Most people enter this field through direct hire or apprenticeship programs at manufacturing facilities. If you are exploring whether this fits your timeline and interests, Pathly can map the coil winder, taper, and finisher path that fits you with your school counselor to map out the next steps.
You like working with your hands and solving practical problems. You pay close attention to detail and follow instructions carefully. You are reliable and take pride in quality work.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).