Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Paint, coat, or decorate articles, such as furniture, glass, plateware, pottery, jewelry, toys, books, or leather.
Median pay: $41,600/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +1.4% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Apply coatings, such as paint, ink, or lacquer, to protect or decorate workpiece surfaces, using spray guns, pens, or brushes.
• Examine finished surfaces of workpieces to verify conformance to specifications and retouch any defective areas.
• Clean and maintain tools and equipment, using solvents, brushes, and rags.
• Read job orders and inspect workpieces to determine work procedures and materials required.
What's the median pay for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers?
The median pay for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers is $41,600 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers?
Employment for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers is projected to change +1.4% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers?
About 800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.