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 Painter
Industrial Painter
Maintenance Painter
Painter
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.
Developing
Hands-onExecute surface preparation procedures including removal of old paint and cleaning using power sanders, scrapers, and pressure washers under time constraints.
Developing
KnowledgeApply color mixing and matching techniques to achieve desired colors and consistency for custom painting projects.
Developing
Hands-onPerform painting tasks on elevated surfaces using scaffolding, ladders, and aerial lifts while maintaining safety protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeEvaluate surface conditions and material requirements during inspection to determine appropriate preparation methods and coating systems.
Developing
MindsetEngage with clients and team members to clarify project specifications and coordinate work activities effectively.
Developing
KnowledgeOrganize work schedules and material logistics for multiple painting projects while managing time constraints and resource availability.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate specialized painting tools and decorative application techniques to create textured finishes, faux effects, and custom designs.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze safety and environmental hazards including lead paint and chemical exposure risks in construction and maintenance settings.
Developing
KnowledgeApply quality control standards by monitoring paint application processes and inspecting finished surfaces for compliance with specifications.
Developing
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
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,680. 25th percentile: U.S. $42,510. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,660. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,270. 90th percentile: U.S. $76,550. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
