A union painter is a member of an approved labor union, such as the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT). As a union painter, you receive training, wages, and benefits so you can provide high-quality paint jobs. You may perform commercial or residential construction work. Your duties include applying primer, removing fixtures, covering floors and furniture to protect from damage, and painting buildings and machinery. A union painter is considered a high-level professional because of the training requirements of the position.