Construction Painters
You paint buildings inside and outside, preparing surfaces by scraping and sanding, applying primer and paint, and ensuring smooth, professional finishes using brushes, rollers, and spray equipment. You work on new construction, renovations, and maintenance projects, sometimes at heights on scaffolding. You need to follow safety rules, understand different paint types, and produce quality work. This skilled trade offers decent pay and job security.
Did you know?
In Australia, you can start with a Certificate II or III in Painting and Decorating through TAFE or apprenticeship programs. Many painters begin as apprentices, learning on-the-job while earning a wage and gaining valuable experience.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$72,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast growing
Things to consider
Physical Demands and Safety Requirements
This career involves physical work including climbing ladders, working at heights, and standing for long periods. Safety training and proper use of protective equipment are essential skills that will be developed during training.
Career Opportunities and Specialisation
Painters can specialise in residential, commercial, or industrial painting, or focus on decorative techniques. With experience, you can become self-employed, start your own painting business, or advance to supervisory roles on construction sites.
Key responsibilities
Erecting scaffolding and ladders, and placing drop sheets to protect adjacent areas from paint splattering
Preparing surfaces by removing old paint and wallpaper, fixing woodwork, filling holes and cracks, and smoothing and sealing surfaces
Selecting and preparing paints to required colours by mixing portions of pigment, oil, and thinning and drying additives
Applying paints, varnishes and stains to surfaces using brushes, rollers and sprays
Hanging wallpaper, matching patterns and trimming edges