Painter (Construction)
PrintWork Tasks
CONSTRUCTION PAINTERS apply paint, stain, varnish, and other finishes to buildings and other structures. Painters must know what type of preparation is best for the type of primer and paint they are going to use. Painters also keep in mind what the customer wants and how the paint will hold up with use. Painters apply paint with brushes, rollers, conventional spray equipment, airless spray equipment, and electrostatic or flame spray equipment. Painters put up scaffolding when working on tall buildings.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $41,000 average per year ($19.75 per hour)
- A large occupation (189,800 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow moderately (0.7% per year)
Entry Requirements
CONSTRUCTION PAINTERS learn their skills through apprenticeship or informal, on-the-job instruction from an experienced painter. A high school education is usually required to be an apprentice. Apprenticeships consist of three to four years of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction in such things as color, use and care of tools, paint mixing, and application techniques. Painters must become familiar with safety and health regulations so that their work is in compliance with the law. Painters do not need a license or certificate.