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Paint Apprentice Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Vermeer Corporation

Industrial Painter (Evenings)

Pella, IA · On-site

$25.36 - $28.02/hr

... 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 ...

University of Iowa

Area Mechanic

Iowa City, IA

Inspects and reports building problems involving carpentry, painting, roof, masonry, and plastering ... Trains shop apprentices, replacements, and other personnel. MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

University of Iowa

Area Mechanic

Iowa City, IA · On-site

Inspects and reports building problems involving carpentry, painting, roof, masonry, and plastering ... Trains shop apprentices, replacements, and other personnel. MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

Cox Automotive

Inspector Apprentice (Manheim)

Stuart, IA · On-site

$13.70 - $20.53/hr

... frame/paint, engine noise, AC/heater operation, radio, tire condition, etc. * Prepare and complete all necessary documentation. * Set up system for day-end; perform day-end procedures. * Maintain ...

The University Of Iowa

Area Mechanic

Iowa City, IA · On-site

Inspects and reports building problems involving carpentry, painting, roof, masonry, and plastering ... Trains shop apprentices, replacements, and other personnel. MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

Ziegler Industries

Scaffold/Insulation Foreman

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Guide apprentices and help build the next generation of skilled workers. * Project Management ... Experience in surface preparation, industrial painting, and/or coatings. * Ability to lead a crew ...

ARCONIC

Electrician - Manufacturing

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$39.80 - $41.59/hr

... and gas supplies; paint, solvents and cleaning materials, lubricants, ink; natural and ... High School Diploma or GED, and a Certified Apprenticeship or 5 years of equivalent experience

ARCONIC

Electrician - Hiring Now

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$39.80 - $41.59/hr

... and gas supplies; paint, solvents and cleaning materials, lubricants, ink; natural and ... High School Diploma or GED, and a Certified Apprenticeship or 5 years of equivalent experience

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Paint Apprentice information

What is a paint apprentice?

Paint Apprentices are entry-level workers who learn the skills and techniques required to become professional painters. They typically work under the supervision of experienced painters, assisting with tasks such as preparing surfaces, applying paint, and cleaning up job sites. Through hands-on training and sometimes formal instruction, paint apprentices develop knowledge of different painting tools, materials, and safety procedures. This role is often the first step in a painting career, leading to opportunities for advancement as skills are gained.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a paint apprentice?

To thrive as a Paint Apprentice, you need basic knowledge of painting techniques, surface preparation, and safety practices, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational programs. Familiarity with tools like sprayers, brushes, rollers, and safety equipment is essential, and OSHA safety certification is often beneficial. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and good teamwork skills help apprentices stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure high-quality finishes, maintain a safe work environment, and support the progression to more advanced painting positions.

What are some common challenges paint apprentices face during their training period?

Paint Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering various application techniques, working efficiently in tight or awkward spaces, and ensuring consistent quality under time constraints. They must also learn to properly prepare surfaces, select the right materials, and adhere to safety standards, all while adapting to different work environments. Close collaboration with experienced painters and other trades is key to overcoming these challenges and building strong foundational skills.

What is the difference between Paint Apprentice vs Painter?

AspectPaint ApprenticePainter
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasksIndependent or team-based painting projects
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with prep work, learning techniquesApplying paint, finishing surfaces

The main difference is that a Paint Apprentice is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Painter is a skilled worker performing painting tasks independently. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Painters execute projects with more responsibility and experience.

Can you do a paint apprenticeship?

Yes, a paint apprenticeship is a common way to learn the trade of painting and decorating. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and may require a minimum age, a high school diploma or equivalent, and physical ability to perform painting tasks. They usually last 1 to 4 years and can lead to certification or licensing in some regions.

How to become a paint apprentice?

To become a paint apprentice, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should apply through local painting contractors or unions. Gaining basic skills in painting tools and safety procedures, and being willing to learn on the job, are essential steps; some programs may require passing a skills assessment or background check.

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

The most popular types of Paint jobs in Iowa are:

Paint Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paint Apprentice job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Industrial Painter (Evenings)

Vermeer Corporation

Pella, IA • On-site

$25.36 - $28.02/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Vermeer rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 499 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

2 - Second 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)

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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