A marine painter applies coatings to boats, vessels, and marine structures. In this career, your duties include painting vessels and structures using specialized spray equipment or sometimes by hand with brushes and rollers. In some cases, you use unique compounds that prevent corrosion or create a membrane that seals the boat. In addition to painting, you prepare the surface for paint application. For example, you might sand the exterior of a ship to remove old paint or rust or to smooth the surface before new paint and waterproof coatings are applied. Your responsibilities can include repainting older vessels or applying color and sealant to newly-built boats.