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Paint Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Clesen Brothers, Inc.

Maintenance Tech

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Completion of an apprenticeship will be highly considered. * Demonstrates basic plumbing, electrical, irrigation, carpentry, welding, painting, drywall repair and fabrication skills * Working ...

Power Construction

Union Drywall Carpenter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... painting or papering. Carpenters work with blueprints, specifications, and drawings to build ... POSITION REQUIREMENTS: • High school degree or equivalent • Participates in Apprenticeship ...

Restore Construction, Inc.

Finish Carpenter

Melrose Park, IL · Remote

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

We prefer candidates who have additional skills such as tile work and painting as well. Finish ... Completion of a relevant finish carpentry training program or apprenticeship or at least one year ...

Power Construction

Traveling Union Carpenter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... painting or papering. Carpenters work with blueprints, specifications, and drawings to build ... POSITION REQUIREMENTS: • High school degree or equivalent • Participates in Apprenticeship ...

Village of Mount Prospect

Electrician

Mount Prospect, IL · On-site

$24.75 - $34/hr

... painting, carpentry, pavement patching, plowing and removal of snow from streets, tree trimming ... Completion of electrician apprenticeship program, electrician certificate program or associates ...

suncast

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $27/hr

... training, apprenticeships and more. We offer a clean manufacturing environment where safety is ... Paint machinery and surfaces. This includes laying drop cloths, removing switch plates, taping trim ...

Suncast

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Batavia, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $27/hr

... training, apprenticeships and more. We offer a clean manufacturing environment where safety is ... Paint machinery and surfaces. This includes laying drop cloths, removing switch plates, taping trim ...

Dubak Electrical

Pipefitter/Welder

La Grange Park, IL · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Perform prime coat painting as necessary * Other related duties as required. * Proficiently use ... Technical school, 4 yr. apprenticeship and/or equivalent experience. * 2+ years' experience as a ...

suncast

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Batavia, IL

$19.50 - $27/hr

... training, apprenticeships and more. We offer a clean manufacturing environment where safety is ... Paint machinery and surfaces. This includes laying drop cloths, removing switch plates, taping trim ...

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All JobsPaint Apprentice JobsPaint Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL

Paint Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do paint apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for paint apprentice in Chicago, IL is $18.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Paint jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Paint jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Paint Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Paint Apprentice job openings:

Paint Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Paint Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,011 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Facilities Trades Instructor

Lakeshore Sport & Fitness

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Help Maintain Great Buildings While Developing Great Technicians

We're looking for a skilled maintenance professional who loves teaching just as much as troubleshooting.

Our maintenance team keeps a busy, historic facility operating every day. From preventive maintenance and work orders to repairing aging building systems and tackling unexpected challenges, no two days are ever the same. We need someone who not only has strong technical skills but also enjoys sharing their knowledge with others.

Whether you've taught at a trade school, trained apprentices, mentored technicians on the job, or simply have a passion for helping others grow, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact.

You'll work alongside our maintenance team, coaching technicians in real-world situations while helping maintain a complex commercial facility. This is a hands-on role where you'll demonstrate best practices, build technical skills, and help create the next generation of exceptional maintenance professionals.

What You'll Do
  • Teach practical skills including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, drywall, mechanical systems, and general building maintenance.
  • Review technicians work on preventive maintenance, work orders, repairs, and troubleshooting across the facility. 
  • Coach and mentor maintenance technicians while working side by side in the field.
  • Turn everyday maintenance work into learning opportunities for the team.
  • Develop simple training materials, standard operating procedures, and hands-on learning exercises.
  • Help onboard and train new maintenance employees.
  • Evaluate technician skill levels and identify opportunities for growth.
  • Demonstrate safe work practices and proper use of tools and equipment.
  • Share industry best practices and encourage continuous learning.
  • Assist with facility improvement projects and repairs throughout the property.
  • Help maintain high standards for craftsmanship, safety, and professionalism.
Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in commercial facilities maintenance or one or more skilled trades.
  • Strong working knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, drywall, painting, and general building systems.
  • Experience teaching, mentoring, coaching, or training others, either formally or informally.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Patient, encouraging, and passionate about helping others succeed.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
  • Comfortable working in an older building where every day brings new challenges.
  • Self-motivated, adaptable, and team oriented.
Preferred Experience
  • Trade school or vocational instructor
  • Union apprenticeship trainer
  • Technical education or workforce development
  • Commercial facilities maintenance
  • Hospitality, recreation, or club maintenance
  • Building automation or mechanical systems
  • CMRT, CMRP, OSHA, or trade certifications
What Success Looks Like
  • Maintenance technicians become more confident and capable across multiple trades.
  • Work orders are completed safely, efficiently, and with high-quality workmanship.
  • Preventive maintenance is completed consistently, reducing equipment failures.
  • Team members continuously develop new technical skills.
  • Knowledge is shared openly, creating a culture of learning and craftsmanship.
  • Our buildings remain safe, reliable, and well maintained despite the challenges of an aging facility.
Why Join Us?

You'll be part of a maintenance team that takes pride in solving problems and keeping a busy facility operating at its best. Every day presents something different, and you'll have the opportunity to use your experience not only to repair buildings but also to develop the people who maintain them.

If you've reached the point in your career where your greatest satisfaction comes from helping others master the trades, we'd love to meet you.

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