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Entry Level Painter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Every position - Entry-Level Painter Apprentice, Skilled Painter, Job Site Manager - comes with written KPIs tied directly to pay and title. Beat budget? You're on track. Keep clients happy? That ...

As an Entry-Level Painter, you'll be expected to prime vehicles and perform final sanding before the vehicle is painted , along with buffing, touch-up, paint mixing, and airbrush. At Carvana, you'll ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

New

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

New

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

New

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

Paint Prepper (min 6 months professional experience): prepare vehicles for cosmetic paintwork, including sanding, masking, taping, bagging, unbagging/tear down, and buffing * Entry-Level Painter (min ...

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Entry Level Painter information

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How much do entry level painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level painter in the United States is $21.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you be an entry level painter with no experience?

Entry level painters often do not need prior experience, as many employers provide on-the-job training. Basic skills such as attention to detail, physical stamina, and familiarity with painting tools can help you get started in this role.

How to start a career in painting?

To start a career as an entry-level painter, gain basic knowledge of painting techniques and safety procedures, often through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Developing skills with tools like brushes, rollers, and sprayers, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training, can improve job prospects. Entry-level painters typically work under supervision and may need physical stamina and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level painter?

To thrive as an Entry Level Painter, you need basic knowledge of painting techniques, surface preparation, and familiarity with safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or GED. Experience with brushes, rollers, sprayers, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good communication help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure high-quality results, maintain safety standards, and promote effective teamwork on job sites.

What is the difference between Entry Level Painter vs Apprentice Painter?

AspectEntry Level PainterApprentice Painter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic painting skillsMay require basic skills; often in training
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial, or industrial sitesOn-the-job training alongside experienced painters
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions in painting companies or contractorsTraining role within painting companies or unions

While both roles involve painting tasks, an Entry Level Painter is typically responsible for basic painting duties with some experience, whereas an Apprentice Painter is in training, learning skills under supervision. The apprentice role often serves as a stepping stone to becoming a full-fledged painter.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level painters, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level painters often encounter challenges such as mastering proper surface preparation, achieving an even coat, and working efficiently under time constraints. These challenges can be addressed by closely following safety and preparation procedures, seeking guidance from experienced team members, and practicing various painting techniques. Additionally, being open to feedback and consistently learning on the job will help build confidence and skill, making tasks easier over time.

What does an entry level painter do?

An entry level painter is responsible for preparing surfaces, applying paint, and assisting more experienced painters on various projects. Typical duties include sanding, cleaning surfaces, taping, priming, and using brushes or rollers to apply paint. Entry level painters often work under supervision and may help with moving materials, setting up equipment, and cleaning up job sites. This position is a great way to gain experience in the painting trade and learn proper techniques and safety practices.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Painter jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Painter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Painter jobs? The most popular types of Painter jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Painter jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Painter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Painter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Painter jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Painter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, 2% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,394 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Entry-Level Painter Apprentice

Pearl Painters

Portland, OR

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Your Career. Your Metrics. Your Move.

At Pearl Painters, raises and promotions don't come from hoping someone notices, begging for a raise, or being the favorite - they come from clear, measurable performance.

Are you one of the many hardworking painters stuck in a company where it's not clear how to move up?

We've seen it too often - talented people doing great work with no idea how to grow. That's not how we do things here.

You get a clear Career Path with specific, measurable expectations. Every position - Entry-Level Painter Apprentice, Skilled Painter, Job Site Manager - comes with written KPIs tied directly to pay and title.

Beat budget? You're on track.

Keep clients happy? That counts.

You'll always know exactly where you stand.

Want a raise? Let's look at your numbers and see what's next. No guessing. No begging. No hoping the boss just happens to notice.

This is your career.

You control the pace. We give you the path.

Pearl Painters is searching for a full-time, Entry-Level Painter Apprentice to join our dedicated staff in the metro Portland, OR area.

When you join Pearl Painters, you join a crew that values respect, learning, and growth. This is why we offer this entry-level painting opportunity a competitive pay range between $17.00 and $20.00 an hour, along with the following benefits:

  • 1 week Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Medical insurance
  • Retirement plan with employer match
  • Full-Time work
  • Structured career path

We're looking for Entry-Level Painter Apprentice like you to join our painting. Apply now and let's achieve greatness together!

THE TYPE OF ENTRY-LEVEL PAINTER APPRENTICE WE'RE LOOKING FOR

  • No experience needed
  • Not afraid of heights
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • A smartphone with a data plan (for jobsite communication)
  • Physical ability to lift, climb ladders, and handle tools safely
  • Willingness to learn, show up, and take pride in your work

WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE OUR ENTRY-LEVEL PAINTER

This full-time entry-level painter position works Monday–Friday, with steady year-round work. Traveling is required throughout the Portland metro area.

As an Entry-Level Painter, you are the essential foundation of the painting team, arriving five minutes early each day, eager to learn and contribute positively to job sites in Portland. You're trained in Pearl's Best Known Methods (BKMs) for various tasks such as preparation, painting, cleanup, and maintaining professionalism. Each day offers a diverse range of activities-from prepping rooms and caulking to rolling and brushing both interiors and exteriors, as well as sanding and organizing equipment. You won't be alone in this journey; you collaborate with experienced painters dedicated to your success. Your primary goal is straightforward: ensure client satisfaction while keeping the project within budget. Progress is measured through clear benchmarks, and as you enhance your skills and efficiency, you're on track for promotion, with many Entry-Level Painters advancing to A2 within just 3 to 6 months.

ALL ABOUT PEARL PAINTERS

At Pearl Painters, our motto says it all: "Making you wish all contractors were like us!" Since 2001, we've been delivering top-quality interior and exterior painting services to residential customers across the Portland area - and we do it with professionalism, clear communication, and a commitment to excellence that sets us apart. Our goal is to make every customer feel confident and involved from start to finish, while delivering results that exceed expectations.

What makes it all possible? Our people. We invest in our team with the right tools, training, and support so they can do their best work - and grow while doing it. Many of our painters begin as Entry-Level Painters and advance into leadership roles. We're proud of the longevity of our staff and the pride they take in their craftsmanship. In return, we offer competitive pay, great benefits, and a workplace culture built on respect, learning, and individual growth.

At Pearl Painters, you're not just picking up a brush; you're building a career with a company that keeps its promises and delivers on quality every time.

Ready to join our team in Portland? If so, apply now using our simple 3-minute initial application! We can't wait to meet you about this entry-level painting position!