Painters apply a range of coatings to beautify, identify, and protect interior and exterior surfaces and structures from weather, UV, chemicals, abrasion and fire. From housing, hospitals, schools, office towers, and retail stores to bridges, tanks, pipelines, structural steel and hydro generation a painter does it all.

You are creative.

You are detail oriented.

You are comfortable working at heights.

Responsibilities

  • Repair, clean and prepare wood, plaster, stucco, stone, concrete, brick, steel and other materials
  • Apply paint and other materials using brushes, rollers or spray equipment
  • Read specifications and calculate the area to be painted and the amount of paint needed
  • Select, mix and thin paints and stains to produce the desired colour and appearance
  • Prepare surfaces by scraping, wire brushing, or sanding to a smooth finish
  • Put up scaffolding and set up ladders

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Strong communication skills, reading and numeracy
  • Strong problem-solving and planning skills
  • Creativity and an eye for detail
  • Physical strength and balance
  • Ability to work in high places
  • Ability to work outdoors in diverse weather
  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment
  • Experience using precision tools

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

Apprenticeship Program:

3 years, includes 8 weeks of technical training, 1,300 hours of on-the-job training and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.

To potentially qualify for credit to reduce length of apprenticeship term: Completed courses of study, painter-related work experience or related journeyperson certificate AND employer’s recommendation.

To apply for a Prior Learning Assessment: Previous training/work experience in the trade AND desire to determine level of skill & knowledge or advanced standing in an apprenticeship program.

Start Building Your Skills!

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Hourly Pay

Contact the local union for more information on hourly pay, benefits, pensions and more.

Construction Workers Needed

55,810 Construction Workers needed by 2030*

*BuildForce Canada

Did You Know?

Industrial painters often work outdoors but may work in confined spaces like the inside of a large storage tank. Those who paint building infrastructure may need to be suspended with ropes or cables.