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Painters, Construction and Maintenance

Paint walls, equipment, buildings, bridges, and other structural surfaces, using brushes, rollers, and spray guns. May remove old paint to prepare surface prior to painting. May mix colors or oils to obtain desired color or consistency.

What you’d do

  • Cover surfaces with dropcloths or masking tape and paper to protect surfaces during painting.
  • Read work orders or receive instructions from supervisors or homeowners to determine work requirements.
  • Apply paint, stain, varnish, enamel, or other finishes to equipment, buildings, bridges, or other structures, using brushes, spray guns, or rollers.
  • Fill cracks, holes, or joints with caulk, putty, plaster, or other fillers, using caulking guns or putty knives.
  • Smooth surfaces, using sandpaper, scrapers, brushes, steel wool, or sanding machines.
  • Erect scaffolding or swing gates, or set up ladders, to work above ground level.
  • Wash and treat surfaces with oil, turpentine, mildew remover, or other preparations, and sand rough spots to ensure that finishes will adhere properly.
  • Apply primers or sealers to prepare new surfaces, such as bare wood or metal, for finish coats.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Coordination
  • Monitoring
  • Social Perceptiveness

How to get there

Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

Also called

  • Building Trades Painter
  • Industrial Painter
  • Maintenance Painter
  • Painter
  • Commercial Painter
  • Facilities Painter

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