Painter

Summary

Applies paint, varnishes, and stains to interior and/or exterior surfaces, such as walls, equipment, buildings, bridges, and other structural surfaces, using brushes, rollers, and spray guns. Prepares surfaces for painting by removing old paint using paint removers, scrapers, wire brushes, or blowtorches. Fills nail holes, cracks, and joints with caulk, putty, plaster, or other fillers using a caulking gun or a putty knife. Primes surfaces as necessary. May choose paint according to application or job. May mix colors or oils to obtain desired color or consistency. Utilizes familiarity with a variety of the field’s concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Works under general supervision. May direct, lead, and/or coordinates the work of others. May directly supervise others. Spends less than 80% of work time on supervisory, managerial, or leadership duties. Exercises a certain degree of creativity and latitude. Typically reports directly to a supervisor or manager.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description. These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

May lead a team of employees; may direct, lead, and/or coordinate the work of others
Fill cracks, holes, or joints with caulk, putty, plaster, or other fillers, using caulking guns or putty knives
Cover surfaces with dropcloths or masking tape and paper to protect surfaces during painting
Smooth surfaces, using sandpaper, scrapers, brushes, steel wool, or sanding machines
Read work orders or receive instructions from supervisors or homeowners to determine work requirements
Apply primers or sealers to prepare new surfaces, such as bare wood or metal, for finish coats
Apply paint, stain, varnish, enamel, or other finishes to equipment, buildings, bridges, or other structures, using brushes, spray guns, or rollers
Erect scaffolding or swing gates, or set up ladders, to work above ground level
Mix and match colors of paint, stain, or varnish with oil or thinning and drying additives to obtain desired colors and consistencies
Calculate amounts of required materials and estimate costs, based on surface measurements or work orders
Polish final coats to specified finishes
Wash and treat surfaces with oil, turpentine, mildew remover, or other preparations, and sand rough spots to ensure that finishes will adhere properly
Select and purchase tools or finishes for surfaces to be covered, considering durability, ease of handling, methods of application, and customers’ wishes
Remove old finishes by stripping, sanding, wire brushing, burning, or using water or abrasive blasting
Remove fixtures such as pictures, door knobs, lamps, or electric switch covers prior to painting
Use special finishing techniques such as sponging, ragging, layering, or faux finishing
Cut stencils and brush or spray lettering or decorations on surfaces
Waterproof buildings, using waterproofers or caulking
Spray or brush hot plastics or pitch onto surfaces
Bake finishes on painted or enameled articles, using baking ovens

Education and Experience

Completion of ninth (9th) grade and two (2) years of experience in the field or in a related area

Licensure and Certification

Driver license may be required (if duties dictate)

Supervision

Works under general supervision
May direct, lead, and/or coordinates the work of others; may directly supervise others

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.