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.

SOC: 47-2141.00

Common Job Titles

Facilities PainterIndustrial PainterMaintenance PainterPainter

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • Hands-onOperate spray equipment, brushes, and rollers to apply paint and coatings to various structural surfaces following established techniques.
  • Hands-onExecute surface preparation procedures including removal of old paint and cleaning using power sanders, scrapers, and pressure washers under time constraints.
  • KnowledgeApply color mixing and matching techniques to achieve desired colors and consistency for custom painting projects.
  • Hands-onPerform painting tasks on elevated surfaces using scaffolding, ladders, and aerial lifts while maintaining safety protocols.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate surface conditions and material requirements during inspection to determine appropriate preparation methods and coating systems.
  • MindsetEngage with clients and team members to clarify project specifications and coordinate work activities effectively.
  • KnowledgeOrganize work schedules and material logistics for multiple painting projects while managing time constraints and resource availability.
  • Hands-onManipulate specialized painting tools and decorative application techniques to create textured finishes, faux effects, and custom designs.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze safety and environmental hazards including lead paint and chemical exposure risks in construction and maintenance settings.
  • KnowledgeApply quality control standards by monitoring paint application processes and inspecting finished surfaces for compliance with specifications.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Painters, Construction and Maintenance (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

224,180

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$36,680
10% of workers earn the following or more$76,550
Workers on average earn$53,710

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Public Safety and Security3.9/5
  • Administration and Management3.7/5
  • English Language3.6/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
  • Building and Construction3.4/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Act!Corel Paint Shop ProCorel PainterEvergreen Technology Eagle Bid EstimatingEvergreen Technology Total FauxInsight Direct ServiceCEOOn Center Quick BidSpreadsheet software

Tools & Equipment

Aerial liftsAir compressorsAirless spray equipmentBlow torchesBosun chairsBucket trucksCaulking gunsChippers