WHAT DO PAINTERS DO?
Painters work in a variety of jobs to paint things. Buildings, houses, cars, toys, you name it, and a painter painted it. Painters use a variety of brushes, rollers and electronic spray guns to get the proper coat and technique for quality-looking paint jobs. Typically, painters use drop cloths and cover or remove anything that doesn't need painting, prepare surfaces to accept paint by scraping or sanding, apply primer or base coats, buy and mix paints, decide on colors and finishes for the final product. Some painters use specialized safety equipment and ventilators to stay safe on the job. Painters work indoors and outdoors, and some might need special equipment to reach tall buildings or structures.
Different types of painters include construction painters who paint new buildings, maintenance painters who touch up paint and maintain the condition of current paint jobs, artisan painters who apply decorative techniques to painted surfaces, or painting and coating workers who apply paint to cars, toys furniture and other manufactured products.
HOW MUCH DO PAINTERS MAKE?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), painters in 2010 made a median hourly income of $16.48, or $34,280 a year.
WHAT ARE THE EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS?
There are no educational requirements to get started as a painter, but a high school diploma helps. Much of the training can be done through an apprenticeship program at a trade school or union, or can be learned on the job.
JOB SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS
- Color Vision: Painters need to be able to see different colors and make sure that they are consistent throughout a job.
- Customer-Service: Some painters will work with clients, and must be pleasant and courteous.
- Attention to Detail: Painters must make sure that they clean up any excess paint, smudges or smears.
- Stamina: Painters often have to stand for long periods of time, often with their hands above their heads.
THE FUTURE OF PAINTERS
Painting jobs will grow steadily between 2010 and 2020, according to the BLS.