To work as a painter, you typically need to:

• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Painter jobs tend to be entry-level jobs that require little or no previous work experience. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or equivalent.

On-the-job training

Many painters receive informal on-the-job training from an experienced worker. During training, you first work as a helper. You learn to erect scaffolding, carry supplies, and do simple painting. Later, as you gain skills, you learn to prepare surfaces and mix paints. Training may last up to one year.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be construction specialists. Training lasts five to eight weeks, depending on your specialty. Further training occurs on the job.

If you receive this type of training in the military, you may earn credit for previous work experience when you enter a civilian apprenticeship program.