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Painter Apprentice Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Caliber Collision

Auto Painter Helper

Rialto, CA

$20/hr

Auto Painter Helpers will be required to repair vehicles thoroughly, safely, and profitably in accordance with Caliber and OEM standards using our state-of-the-art equipment. OUR AUTO PAINTER HELPERS ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Painter

Ontario, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Job Title Painter Summary Responsible to assist with the operation troubleshooting, diagnostics, housekeeping, and repairs on commercial buildings, industrial systems, vehicles, grounds, and ...

University of California, Irvine

Painter

Irvine, CA · On-site

$45.11/hr

Will tint paints on a colorant tinting machine. What It Takes to be Successful Required: * Skill and knowledge with state of the art painting equipment; brushes, rollers, extension poles, scaffolding ...

Kitchen Tune-Up

Carpentry Apprentice

Orange, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... Carpentry Apprentice to work on kitchen remodeling projects. We are seeking career minded ... Painting, and Custom Cabinets. While the kitchen is the heart of the home, our people are the heart ...

Essel

Apprentice HVAC Installer

Claremont, CA · On-site

Sealing duct work, painting, knowledge of AC and refrigeration systems. * Learn to read and ... Apprentice HVAC Installer position at Essel! Benefits industry standard benefits

Essel

Apprentice HVAC Installer

Claremont, CA · On-site

Sealing duct work, painting, knowledge of AC and refrigeration systems. * Learn to read and ... Apprentice HVAC Installer position at Essel! Benefits industry standard benefits

Essel

Apprentice HVAC Installer

Claremont, CA · On-site

Sealing duct work, painting, knowledge of AC and refrigeration systems. * Learn to read and ... Apprentice HVAC Installer position at Essel! Benefits industry standard benefits

Flex Ltd

Structural Paint Lead

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.06 - $28.96/hr

Report to the Production Manager, the Lead Structural Painter responsible for painting metal bases, steel tube frames, and steel c-channels for our enclosure buildings. What a typical day looks like:

Flex

Structural Paint Lead

Fontana, CA

$21.06 - $28.96/hr

Report to the Production Manager, the Lead Structural Painter responsible for painting metal bases, steel tube frames, and steel c-channels for our enclosure buildings. What a typical day looks like:

Flex Ltd

Structural Paint Lead

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.06 - $28.96/hr

Report to the Production Manager, the Lead Structural Painter responsible for painting metal bases, steel tube frames, and steel c-channels for our enclosure buildings. What a typical day looks like:

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All JobsPainter Apprentice JobsPainter Apprentice Jobs in Riverside, CA

Painter Apprentice information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do painter apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for painter apprentice in Riverside, CA is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Painter Apprentice Do?

The duties of a painter apprentice are to learn and perform painting techniques and other essential tasks under the supervision of an experienced painter. Typically, their responsibilities involve prep, such as masking, sanding, and laying drop sheets, and then applying paint under the direction of a supervisor. Other responsibilities include caulking, finishing, and touch-up work. After you gain experience and skills through training and instruction, you can become a journeyman. Qualifications to be a painter apprentice vary, but often include a high school diploma or GED. Some prior experience in painting or construction is useful.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Painter Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Painter Apprentice, you need basic knowledge of surface preparation, paint application techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like brushes, rollers, sprayers, sanders, and personal protective equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively are important soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality results, workplace safety, and effective teamwork as you develop expertise in the trade.

Is 26 too old for an apprenticeship?

A painter apprentice position is open to individuals of various ages, including those who are 26. Age is generally not a barrier, as apprenticeships focus on developing skills such as surface preparation, painting techniques, and safety procedures, regardless of age. Many programs value maturity and work ethic, making 26 a suitable age to start an apprenticeship in painting.

How much do apprenticeship painters make?

Apprentice painters typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. As they gain skills and certifications, their wages generally increase, and they may progress to higher-paying roles within the painting trade.

What are Painter Apprentices?

Painter Apprentices are individuals who are learning the trade of painting by working under the supervision of experienced painters. They assist with preparing surfaces, mixing paints, and applying coatings on various structures while gaining hands-on experience. Apprenticeships typically involve both on-the-job training and classroom instruction to teach safety, techniques, and industry standards. The goal is to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become a professional painter. This entry-level position is often the first step towards a career in the painting and decorating industry.

What is the difference between Painter Apprentice vs Painter Helper?

AspectPainter ApprenticePainter Helper
Required CredentialsBasic high school diploma; on-the-job trainingMinimal; often no formal credentials needed
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, residential and commercial projectsAssist with prep work and cleanup, similar environments
Job RoleLearn painting techniques, assist skilled paintersSupport painters with prep, cleanup, and material handling

Painter apprentices are in training to become skilled painters, learning techniques and gaining experience. Painter helpers assist experienced painters with basic tasks, often without formal training. While both roles work in similar environments, apprentices focus on skill development, whereas helpers support daily operations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career progression in the painting industry.

Is 25 too late to start an apprenticeship?

Starting a painter apprentice program at age 25 is not too late, as many apprenticeships accept individuals of various ages. Success depends on your commitment to learning skills like surface preparation, painting techniques, and safety protocols, as well as meeting any age or experience requirements set by the program. Many apprenticeships value motivation and a willingness to learn over age alone.

What are the most common challenges Painter Apprentices face during their first year on the job?

During their first year, Painter Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering proper surface preparation techniques, learning to work efficiently with different types of paints and finishes, and adapting to physically demanding tasks like working on ladders or scaffolding. They may also need to quickly develop attention to detail to ensure clean lines and smooth finishes, as well as learn to follow safety protocols in various environments. Building effective communication with experienced painters and other team members is crucial for growth and a positive work experience.

Is 35 too old for an apprenticeship?

A painter apprentice position is open to individuals of various ages, and 35 is not considered too old to start. Apprenticeships focus on skill development, and maturity can be an advantage in learning and working safely with tools and materials. Age should not be a barrier if you meet the program's requirements and are committed to the trade.
More about Painter Apprentice jobs
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What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Painter Apprentice jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Painter Apprentice job openings:
Painter Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Painter Apprentice job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% As Needed, 60% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,508 per year, or $19 per hour.
Auto Painter Helper

Auto Painter Helper

Caliber Collision

Rialto, CA

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Caliber Collision rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 342 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

207th of 332 rated vehicle maintenance

Job description

Service Center

Rialto

JOB SUMMARY

Caliber Collision has an immediate job opening for an Auto Painter Helper to efficiently prepare vehicles for painting in cooperation with the Auto Painter to ensure efficient workflow. Duties may include sanding and buffing and maintenance of paint booth and workspace. Auto Painter Helpers will be required to repair vehicles thoroughly, safely, and profitably in accordance with Caliber and OEM standards using our state-of-the-art equipment.

OUR AUTO PAINTER HELPERS FOR THIS POSITION CAN MAKE UP TO:

  • $18-$20 per hour

BENEFITS OF JOINING THE CALIBER FAMILY

  • Benefits from day one: Immediately eligible for medical, dental and vision
  • Industry Comparable Pay - Paid weekly and eligible for overtime (if hourly)
  • State of the Art Products - 3M Collision Repair Products
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays - Begin accruing day 1
  • Career growth opportunities - We promote from within!
  • Paid Skilled Trainings and Certifications - I-CAR and ASE
  • A career for life: You'll gain hands-on experience within a production shop

REQUIREMENTS

  • 1+ years of experience in paint operations within a collision center
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a valid driver's license and be eligible for coverage under Caliber's insurance policy
  • Nice to have, but not required: Previous collision experience and/or Collision Vo-Tech certification

ABILITES/SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE

  • Ability to do consistent physical activity - reach below and above shoulder level, kneeling, bending, and squatting, and lifting objects over 50 lbs.
  • Be able to understand instructions - written and verbal
  • Can prioritize competing tasks and adapt easily to a fast-paced environment

Caliber is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness, meet client expectations, standards, and accompanying requirements, and safeguard business operations and company reputation.

Caliber uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. with no restrictions.

What Caliber Collision employees say

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