Career roadmap
How to Become an Industrial Painter
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an industrial painter, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an industrial painter: (1) finish high school, (2) get hired, (3) learn prep and masking, (4) learn spraying, (5) advance. Most people need about A few months on the job. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an industrial painter
Finish high school
Or GED.
Get hired
Helper.
Learn prep and masking
Training.
Learn spraying
Skills.
Advance
Lead painter.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | A few months on the job |
Certifications and licenses
- PCI powder coating training: Powder Coating Institute.
- Respirator fit test: Required.
- AMPP coating training: Helpful.
- OSHA 10: Safety.
Skills to build now
Start with spray technique, surface prep, and powder coating, and practice attention to detail and patience. Learning the industrial painter vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Helper: Entry.
- Painter: Spray.
- Lead Painter: Lead.
- Finishing Supervisor: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Industrial Painter training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
No.
How long does it take to become an industrial painter?
Most people need about A few months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an industrial painter?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for industrial painters?
Common credentials include PCI powder coating training, Respirator fit test, AMPP coating training, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-9124 (Coating, painting, and spraying machine setters, operators, and tenders).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Coating, painting, and spraying machine setters, operators, and tenders (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.