Spray painters have careers built on technical skill and attention to detail. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) quotes the average wages of someone in this field to be well above minimum wage. Employees can find work in a variety of industries, painting a range of products.
Training and Other Requirements
A career in spray painting does not require a college degree or special vocational training program certificate. Instead, as CareerDescriptions.com explains, an apprentice, starting as early as age 16, can acquire the necessary knowledge through job shadowing and on-the-job training. Sharp eyes, a steady hand, color awareness and a knack for precision are required for success as a spray painter.
At Work
Spray painters have a series of orderly tasks that they complete in the process of refinishing or newly painting an object, according to CareerDescriptions.com. If refinishing an object the painter begins by removing any old paint either by using a chemical paint stripper or sandpaper. Before spray painting any object the surface must be made smooth by applying a special primer in order to achieve and even paint job. With the primer set, up to five coats of spray paint are applied. After the final coat dries the painter sands the object to even out the finish before adding a finish polish that gives the product a glossy sheen.
Tools
The most important tool of a spray painter is eyesight. The painter's hands and their spray gun run a close second. A spray gun is used both for applying paint and the finishing gloss. Scrapers, sandpaper, cloths or paper for covering a non-painted area and sandpaper are also among a spray painter's arsenal. They might also use tools to measure and mix paints.
Employment Options
As there are many objects and surfaces that require spray painting, there are many industries that hire spay painters. CareerDescriptions.com notes that auto manufactures and garages offer the best opportunities for spray painters. However, as the BLS suggests, careers exist for spray painters in construction and manufacturing as well.
Wage Report
A career in spray painting is financially sound, especially considering how little training/education is needed. The BLS state that the average hourly wage for a spray painter is $17/hour and the average yearly wage is $36,000/year. The base wage is $10/hour and can be as much as $27/hour at top manufacturers.
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