Painter
Apply coatings and finishes to protect and beautify interior and exterior surfaces
About the profession
Painters apply paint, stain, and coatings to buildings, bridges, and other structures. They prepare surfaces, mix colors, and apply finishes for both protection and aesthetics. While entry barriers are low, skilled painters who master specialty finishes, commercial painting, and business operations can earn strong incomes as contractors.
How to Get Started
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Jump to Learning Path →Career Path
Your career progression roadmap with salary growth at each level
Career Ladder
Apprentice Painter → Painter → Senior Painter → Painting Foreman → Painting Contractor
Where are you on this career path?
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Salary Growth
5
Levels
0K
Top Salary
10+
Years
Learning Path
Skills you need to develop and courses to get there
🚀
Set your current level first
Go to the Career Path tab and select your current level to see your personalized learning plan.
Go to Career PathCareer levels
Base: $28,000 - $34,000/year Base: $34,000 - $42,000/year Base: $42,000 - $52,000/year Base: $52,000 - $65,000/year Base: $65,000 - $100,000/year
Skills used in this career
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Learning Path 0 → Junior
Step-by-step plan from zero to first job
Enter painting apprenticeship or on-the-job training Learn surface preparation, primer application, and coating systems Develop safety practices and equipment operation skills…
Market 2026–2030
Trends, AI impact, prospects
Growth Rate: Below average through 2030 Remote Trend: Primarily on-site Top Industries: Painting contractors, construction, property management Geographic Hotspots: All regions —…
💰 Salary Range
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Related Reading
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