• Measuring surfaces and reviewing work orders to estimate quantity of materials needed
• Cleaning surfaces using solvents, heat, sanding, wire brushing water or sand blasting; preparing surfaces by filling nail holes and cracks and sanding rough spots
• Using brushes, rollers, or spray guns to apply coatings and finishes to various surfaces
• Safely assembling scaffolding and other access equipment, when required
• Communicating effectively with customers, co-workers, and supervisors
• Working independently or as part of a team, or supervising the work of others
• Keeping up with trends and learning new techniques in painting and decorating

• Grade 10 is the legal minimum, though a high school diploma is generally required; credits in math and English recommended
• Completion of 6,000-hour apprenticeship, including on-the-job and in-school training
• Branch 1 (commercial and residential) is a Red Seal trade
• Exam to obtain Certificate of Qualification 

• Some employed by companies but many self-employed
• Indoor and outdoor work, often with long summer hours
• Physically demanding (standing on ladder with arms over head)
• Risks include falling and chemical exposure

Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $25.00-$39.00 per hour.

Painter/Decorator (404 C/D)

If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Painter/Decorator (404 C/D) may be for you!

You might want to look at these similar trades as well;

• Auto Body Painter
• Industrial Woodworker
• Pattern Maker