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Entry Level Painter Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Three Point Solutions

Quality Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$37 - $39/hr

Support quality activities in fabrication and pre-paint operations * Perform in-process quality ... Experience in a union environment Role Scope * Entry-level quality engineering role * Supports ...

Sherwin-Williams

Assistant Manager Trainee

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$53K/yr

The Sherwin-Williams Assistant Manager Trainee Program is an accelerated, entry-level position ... You will grow the company's market share by selling to large, commercial users such as painting ...

Lamar

Construction - Billboard Installer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$20/hr

The purpose of this entry-level, full-time position is to install and maintain billboards ... Maintenance of our billboards includes construction work such as tightening bolts, painting steel ...

Lamar

Construction - Billboard Installer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$20/hr

The purpose of this entry-level, full-time position is to install and maintain billboards ... Maintenance of our billboards includes construction work such as tightening bolts, painting steel ...

Lamar

Construction - Billboard Installer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The purpose of this entry-level, full-time position is to install and maintain billboards ... Maintenance of our billboards includes construction work such as tightening bolts, painting steel ...

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Entry Level Painter information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do entry level painter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level painter in Iowa is $20.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.60 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.
More about Entry Level Painter jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Painter jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Painter jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Painter jobs in Iowa?

For Entry Level Painter jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Painter jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Painter jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Painter jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Painter job openings:

Entry Level Painter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Painter job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,637 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Industrial Painter (Overnights)

Vermeer Corporation

Pella, IA • On-site

$25.36 - $28.02/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Vermeer rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

153rd of 489 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Who We Are

Vermeer equips customers doing important work around the world. We are global, driven by innovation and growing. The equipment we make manages natural resources, connects people and feeds and fuels communities. We live out a caring culture, we demonstrate agility, we keep a focus on customers and are stewards of our resources. These beliefs drive our culture, determine how we treat others and steer our business.

Work Shift

3 - Third Shift

Hourly Wage Range

$25.36 - $28.02

Job Summary

Are you detail-oriented and driven to craft a high-quality product? As a Painter I at Vermeer, you'll help transform raw iron into Vermeer yellow iron by applying primer, pre-finish, and finish coats to machines and manufactured parts. Join a team dedicated to quality, safety, and continuous improvement as you contribute to a legacy that drives our world forward.

What You'll Do

1. Apply primer and topcoat to treated metal parts, adjusting paints to meet Vermeer's quality standards.

2. Prepare surfaces for painting by cleaning, degreasing, mechanical scuffing, and precise masking/plugging per print and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

3. Operate and maintain paint-line equipment, including booths, spray guns, pumps, regulators, and high-pressure washers; perform routine preventive maintenance (PM/Total Preventative Maintenance [TPM]) and safe changeovers.

4. Mix and adjust coatings to specification by following ratios by weight/volume, checking viscosity (e.g., Zahn cup), accounting for temperature/humidity, and managing pot life.

5. Measure and document coating quality using Wet Film Thickness (WFT) and Dry Film Thickness (DFT) gauges (magnetic/eddy current), apply visual standards, repair defects, and complete required quality records as applicable.

6. Inspect parts throughout the painting process, repair paint defects, and communicate issues quickly to support cross-shift and cell partners.

7. Perform tasks that require frequent standing, reaching, bending, squatting, and lifting; work in confined spaces as needed while following all Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) procedures.

What We're Looking For:

- Entry-level painting experience, completion of a formal painting or coatings program (technical school, apprenticeship, or equivalent) preferred.

- Ability to successfully complete Vermeer Paint Training Program.

- Ability to learn and perform hands-on spray application using High Volume Low Pressure (HVLP) and/or electrostatic systems; set up and tune spray guns (nozzle/needle, fan, flow, atomization), and troubleshoot common defects such as runs, sags, and orange peel.

- Readiness to measure and document coating quality using WFT and DFT gauges (e.g., magnetic/eddy current), apply visual standards, repair defects, and complete required records.

- Strong habits in surface preparation, including cleaning/degreasing, mechanical scuffing, and precise masking/plugging per print and SOP to ensure adhesion and edge quality.

- Ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting, reaching, bending, and working in confined spaces while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Travel:

- No travel is expected for this position.

Essential Functions

Standing: Continuously

Sitting: Occasionally

Walking: Frequently

Hand Coordination: At least average/bilateral

Twisting: Occasionally (up to 2 minutes in position)

Bending - Trunk: Occasionally (up to 2 minutes in position)

Bending - Neck: Frequently (Up to 25 degrees flex and 45 degrees extension for up to 2 minutes in position)

Elevated Work/Reach: Frequently (up to 2 minutes in position)

Squatting/Kneeling: Occasionally (up to 2 minutes in position)

Climbing: Occasionally

Pulling: Rarely (up to 70 lbs) Occasionally (up to 50 lbs) Frequently (up to 20 lbs) Continuously (up to 10 lbs)

Pushing: Rarely (up to 70 lbs) Occasionally (up to 50 lbs) Frequently (up to 20 lbs) Continuously (up to 10 lbs)

RH Grip: Rarely (up to 70 lbs) Occasionally (up to 50 lbs) Frequently (up to 20 lbs) Continuously (up to 10 lbs)

LH Grip: Rarely (up to 70 lbs) Occasionally (up to 50 lbs) Frequently (up to 20 lbs) Continuously (up to 10 lbs)

RH Pinch: Rarely (up to 15 lbs) Occasionally (up to 10 lbs) Frequently (up to 5 lbs) Continuously (up to 2 lbs)

LH Pinch: Rarely (up to 15 lbs) Occasionally (up to 10 lbs) Frequently (up to 5 lbs) Continuously (up to 2 lbs)

Floor to Waist Lift: Rarely (up to 50 lbs) Occasionally (up to 20 lbs)

Horizontal Lift: (up to 50 lbs) Occasionally (up to 20 lbs) Frequently (up to 10 lbs) Continuously (up to 5 lbs)

Waist to Crown Lift: Rarely (up to 40 lbs) Frequently (up to 10 lbs)

Shoulder to Overhead Lift: Rarely (up to 20 lbs) Frequently (up to 10 lbs)

#hide

Work Location

ONSITE: A team member's day-to-day work is best done on a Vermeer campus. If work content can be occasionally completed at an offsite location, discuss potential arrangements with your manager.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Vermeer Corporation, we believe in the value of your unique identity, background, and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status or any other status protected by the law. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation due to a disability at any stage of the employment application process should contact Team Member Solutions at (641) 621-8767 or at hr@vermeer.com.

Interested? We'd love to get to know you.

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