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Paint Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Training Program Manager

Portsmouth, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Responsible for developing a variety of training programs outside of the apprentice track. Directly ... ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES IMIA Workforce Trades Positions may include Coatings and Paint ...

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Paint Apprentice information

How to become a paint apprentice?

To become a paint apprentice, individuals typically need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a basic skills assessment. Apprenticeship programs are often offered through unions or trade schools and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, focusing on skills like surface preparation, paint application, and safety procedures.

Can you do a paint apprenticeship?

Yes, a paint apprenticeship is available and typically involves working under experienced painters to learn skills such as surface preparation, painting techniques, and safety procedures. Apprenticeships often require a high school diploma or equivalent and may include on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction. Completing an apprenticeship can lead to certification and a career as a professional painter or painter's helper.

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 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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Paint jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Paint jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Paint Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Paint Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Paint Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Paint Shop Foreman (Job ID: 1429)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA โ€ข On-site

$35.13 - $44.43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Corrosion Control Foreman
Position Summary:
First level on-site supervisory role that assigns, coordinates, trains, and evaluates team of semi-skilled and skilled trades personnel according to their ability, experience, and job knowledge to support production in ship repair/industrial fabrication operations.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Key responsibilities include:
  • Manages key activities in the employee lifecycle for all direct reports (timekeeping, job assignments, training, performance management, coaching/counselling, supervision, etc.) and ensure employees have all necessary tools, equipment, work procedures, etc. to work safely and efficiently.
  • Breaks broader production strategies down to practical action plans to support safety, quality, cost, and schedule goals while providing constant monitoring of job sites.
  • Evaluates job sites and work environments prior to work starting to ensure safe project set ups and efficient work evolutions.
  • Responsible for understanding and complying with all technical aspects of the job including adherence to all contract requirements, drawings, procedures/work instructions, etc.
  • Provides daily updates to management to support POD development and execution.
  • Review project specifications/SOWs and order all project materials in accordance with contract requirements and associated references.
  • Generates and submits production reports, meeting all technical/customer requirements, to management.
  • Ensure tools/resources are mobilized and demobilized from project appropriately, providing updates on damaged or lost equipment.
  • Responsible for project's chemist certificate, daily CPs, and hot work permits.
  • Manages and initiates QA/Customer calls out and attends/executes TIP inspections.
  • May serve as backup/makeup to General Foreman, as needed.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelors or Registered Apprentice (grad) or HS + 6 years of experience in corrosion control in a shipyard or marine construction environment; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
  • Must demonstrate strong knowledge of blasting processes, inclusive of dry, slurry and UHP.
  • Must demonstrate knowledge of environmental impact mitigations, inclusive of containment requirements for various stages within the preservation process.
  • Have 5+ years of experience applying or QA of critical coating applications, as detailed in NAVSEA Std Item 009-32.
  • Must demonstrate ability to read & understand paint specifications & data sheets.
  • Must have held or currently hold C-7, C-12 & NBPI.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in surface preparation, coating application, and corrosion control techniques. Strong understanding or protective coatings and their applications.
  • Must be able to read and interpret specifications and SDS.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Some previous supervisory/mentoring experience (such as make-up supervisor)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain access to Government Facilities (DBIDS).
  • Crane signaling certification (mobile and overhead) preferred.
  • Construction and crane company experience is highly preferred.

Security:
  • Must be an US Citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain DBIDS access.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Pay Range: $35.13 - $44.43
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO)