What does a Painter do?
A painter's work varies depending on the discipline and industry they are in. From construction painters responsible for painting buildings to artists who produce fine art, painters overall are tasked with the obligation to produce work in accordance with specifications and demands of the end user.
Depending on the industry and company, painters may need a bachelor's degree especially when it involves the production of fine arts. Due to the nature of the job, strong attention to detail is required followed by the ability to meet expectations and to produce a desirable outcome. A meticulous and diligent candidate with a good eye for aesthetics will excel well as a painter.
- Correspond effectively with clients to understand exact specifications and demands
- Provide accurate estimations reflective of job completion timeframes
- Update clients on the progress of work throughout the engagement
- Mix paints efficiently to meet color and tone expectations
- Work on a variety of mediums as required of the job
- Adhere to safety guidelines and procedures at all times
- Maintain a professional impression always
- Manage administrative and marketing obligations as required
- Proven experience as a painter in a related job setting
- Good oral and written communications skills
- Excellent skill to mix paint and colors
- Keen eye for aesthetic and visual precision
- High attention to detail
- Meticulous and diligent
- Steady hand to ensure precision
- Able to stand for long periods of time
- Flexible to travel to job sites
Painter Salaries
Average Base Pay
Painter Career Path
Learn how to become a Painter, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Painter Insights

“Such a great group of co workers that get along great and can get the job done.”

“It's been a good transition in my career and I enjoy learning from everyone here.”

“Pay is inconsistent for this job specifically (unclear if it is hourly or flat rate)”

“My supervisor was great but the other higher ups didn't seem to know what they were doing.”

“Good for pay and good for hours”
“Friendly team and great to work with.”
“Freedom i love having the freedom to work in different neighborhoods and see the homes.”

“You get paid a base pay and then a bonus based on how much you produce as a team.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Painter
When working as a Painter, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Putty, Sanding, Estimates, Strong WORK Ethic and Spray Painting.
- Laborer
- Material Handler
- Forklift Operator
- Warehouse Worker
The most common qualifications to become a Painter is a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.