Coatings

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What sets us apart as an employer is our unique culture: We believe in teamwork, empowerment, and personal growth. With more than 10.000 employees at over 70 sites worldwide, we drive innovation and sustainable surface solutions – beyond our customers’ expectations. At BASF Coatings, you’ll find a workplace where collaboration, diversity, and ambition are valued and where your ideas and contributions truly matter. Join us in going beyond!

Group of scientists looking at color panel.

TOGETHER

Real success comes from working together – with each other and with our customers. The sum of our strengths is greater than any individual part: We support each other to be courageous and achieve more. Here, decisions don’t wait. We act, move forward, and always have each other’s backs.

BE

Every person matters. We enable personal growth and development by empowering everyone to step forward and bring their unique skills, strengths, personality – and ideas! We show passion in every shade. Respect and inclusivity are the foundation of our culture, making diversity one of our greatest strengths.

Group of people pointing in the distance on factory roof.

BEYOND

We turn ambition into results by going the extra mile for our customers. With our purpose-driven approach to always go beyond the surface, we challenge the status quo and create progress that matters.

TOGETHER

Real success comes from working together – with each other and with our customers. The sum of our strengths is greater than any individual part: We support each other to be courageous and achieve more. Here, decisions don’t wait. We act, move forward, and always have each other’s backs. Trust and respect are the foundation for our collaboration as one global team. And that’s what turns colleagues into a community. With a winning spirit, we show recognition, have fun and celebrate success. Together, we push boundaries and win in our markets.

BE

Every person matters. We enable personal growth and development by empowering everyone to step forward and bring their unique skills, strengths, personality – and ideas! We show passion in every shade. Respect and inclusivity are the foundation of our culture, making diversity one of our greatest strengths. In our open and collaborative environment everyone can leave a positive mark – while building their own career. We shape our future by welcoming bold ideas and by turning them into reality with courage.

BEYOND

We turn ambition into results by going the extra mile for our customers. With our purpose-driven approach to always go beyond the surface, we challenge the status quo and create progress that matters – for our customers, ourselves, and society. Together, we transform industries and excite customers with innovative and sustainable solutions. We courageously take decisions and implement pragmatically to move ideas into action. And in everything we do, we strive to leave a lasting positive impact beyond today.

Digital Talents

In a world where data is the key to the future, our path is digital. Whether through networked production systems, intelligent data analyses or digital business models – we increase our efficiency and create sustainable added value for customers in the automotive and aerospace industries. Make an impact and shape the digital future of the coatings industry with us.

Job opportunities

Engineers

Engineers at BASF Coatings design innovative solutions, optimize production, and drive sustainability. Whether in product development, plant engineering, or process improvement, you'll apply expertise to create value for customers and shape the future of mobility and surfaces.

Job opportunities

Operations

Our operations and manufacturing teams ensure high-quality production every day. We offer competitive conditions and seek dependable candidates committed to long-term collaboration. You will work with modern technologies, support safe and efficient processes, and help deliver reliable coatings to customers worldwide.

Job opportunities

Craftsmen

As a skilled craftsman, you'll bring precision and hands-on expertise to maintain, repair, and optimize our facilities and equipment. Your work secures smooth operations, ensures safety, and keeps production running at the highest standards.

Job opportunities

Chemists

Chemists at BASF Coatings turn research into reality. You'll develop sustainable formulations, improve performance, and collaborate across disciplines to deliver coatings combining innovation, design, and functionality – making a tangible impact in industries worldwide.

Job opportunities

Students and Pupils

Start your career with an an internship, a voacational training or as a working student. At BASF Coatings you will gain practical experience, create your own network and explore exciting career paths in an international company where your development truly matters.

Job opportunities

Beyond SurFACES

Meet the individuals who contribute to our success! Discover their unique roles and contributions within our diverse teams in our interview series Beyond SurFACES.

April Ellenburg

April Ellenburg, Executive Assistant for People & Culture, is bringing 20 years of experience teaching safety, meditation and mindfulness to the workplace.

Kristen Bruley

Kristen Bruley, Data Analyst for People & Culture at BASF – and a fifth-generation BASF employee – uses scientific methods to analyze people data and provide data-based solutions.

Bernhard Lettmann

Bernhard Lettmann is a Global Technology Refinish Clearcoat Lab Leader at BASF, who has been instrumental in developing innovative products and going beyond the limits of waterborne basecoats.

Marie France Belisle

Meet Marie France Belisle, Head of Global Strategic Marketing & Segment Management for Chemetall and learn more about her passion for the people part of BASF’s chemistry business.

Adriana Pullin

Meet Adriana Pullin, Color Excellence Leader for Automotive Coatings at BASF. With a background in chemical engineering and a passion for color, Adriana creates innovative and sustainable pigments that go beyond industry standards.

Yani Dong

Meet Yani Dong, Managing Director of Surface Treatment, Southeast Asia, and learn, why she listens for the “music” in any business.

Discover where your layer can make a difference.

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Your career with us

At BASF Coatings, your career can go further than you imagined. Whether you are a graduate, young professional or expert - we will empower your personal growth. Find opportunities to go beyond and shape innovations that make a real difference.

10 reasons why you should work in BASF's Coatings division

Work in an environment that inspires, supports and connects
Develop your career and your life
Innovate in a forward looking, customer-centered company
Think outside the box and bring your own ideas
Drive diversity in people, opinions, and experiences
Expose yourself to international teams and culture
Drive sustainable and digital solutions
Enjoy work/life balance
Earn competitive wage and benefits
Feel the passion for coatings

Driving Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

By embracing the diverse perspectives of our colleagues, customers and partners, we actively foster an inspiring exchange.

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Our Services & Benefits

Get an overview of the most interesting offers and services. Depending on the region and location, the overall offer may vary a little.

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FAQ – OUR TOP 5

How do I apply for a postition at BASF Coatings?

To apply for a position at BASF Coatings, visit the Careers section on the BASF Coatings website, click on “Job search” and browse for a suitable job posting
Once you’ve found an interesting position, click on “Apply now” to submit your application through the online portal
For Vocational training or dual study programs the application process includes the following steps: Online application → Online test from home → Job Interview or video interview → If applicable, medical examination by the company doctor → Job offer and contract
For Professionals the typical application process includes the following steps:
Online application→ Application review to match candidates with suitable open positions → Several one-on-one-interviews with representatives from the technical unit and BASF Coatings recruitment staff → Job offer and contract
We do not use assessment centers for professionals

What documents do I need for my application at BASF Coatings?

The documents required for your application depend on your background and the type of position you are applying for.
For Apprentices (Vocational training or dual study programs)

A cover letter
A CV including your educational background and any practical experience
Your last two school transcripts (dual study program: university entrance qualification)
Certificates of internships, courses, or extracurricular activities related to the training field (if applicable)

For Students (Internships, Working Students, Thesis Projects)

A CV including your educational background, practical experience, and skills
A cover letter explaining your motivation and preferred time period
Current Transcript of Records
Certificate of enrollment from your university
University entrance qualification
Any reference letters or certificates from previous internships, part-time jobs, or relevant experience (if applicable)

For Graduates (Entry-level positions, Trainee programs such as START IN Coatings)

A current CV highlighting your educational background, research projects, and relevant technical or professional skills
A cover letter
University degree certificate(s) and transcripts of records (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s)
Internship or work certificates (if applicable)
Any language or training certificates relevant to the position

For Experienced Professionals

An up-to-date CV showing your professional experience, education, and key achievements
A short cover letter summarizing your motivation and suitability for the position
Relevant degree certificates and professional qualifications
Employment references or letters of recommendation from previous employers
Optional: Certificates from training programs or language skills evidence, if relevant

Can I apply for several positions in the Coatings division at the same time?

You are welcome to apply to several locations or for different positions at the Coatings division at the same time.

What entry-level opportunities are available for graduates in paint and coating technologies?

For graduates we offer the Trainee Program START IN Coatings
11 streams:

Business
Supply Chain
Procuremen
People and Culture (HR)
Digital Business & Innovation Management
Engineering
PhD Chemist
Controlling
Digitalisation & Automatisation
Data Science

Program requirements:

Master degree in respective discipline/ PHD for chemists
International experience such as internships, attendance of foreign universities or student exchanges
Flexible starting dates
Duration of 18-24 months (3 to 4 assignments)
Including international assignments
Target position not fixed

Participants advantage:

Jointly define next steps and target positions
Gaining extensive insights into operative and project-based activities of the division
Building a broad network throughout the company

What internships, working student positions, or thesis opportunities does BASF Coatings offer?

We offer internships, working student positions and thesis projects in several fields:

Natural Sciences
Engineering
Business & Corporate Functions
IT & Digitalisation
Research and Development

Internships

Duration: Minimum of 2 months, up to a maximum of 6 months
Types of internships:
- Mandatory internship: up to 6 months
- Voluntary internship: up to 3 months
- Combination of both is also possible
Employment: Full-time

Working Student Positions

Duration: Minimum of 6 weeks, up to a maximum of 24 months
Working hours:
- During lecture periods: Part-time (10 to 20 hours per week)
- During semester breaks: Full-time
Employment type: Part-time or full-time depending on academic schedule

Thesis Opportunities

Types: Bachelor's, Master's, or diploma theses
Develop your own ideas related to your thesis topic
Collaborate with BASF on innovative, practice-oriented projects
Benefit from:
- Individual supervision
- Excellent working and research conditions

We shine brightest
as a team. Join us!