Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)

Example job titles

• construction painter
• maintenance painter
• painter
• painter and decorator
• painter and decorator apprentice
• paperhanger

Main duties

• This group performs some or all of the following duties:
• Read specifications to determine quantities of materials required
• Prepare and clean surfaces using methods such as scraping, sanding, sandblasting, hydro-blasting and steam-cleaning; remove old wallpaper and loose paint; repair cracks and holes in walls; and sandpaper and apply sealer
• Mix and thin paint to obtain desired colour and texture
• Apply paint or other materials, such as stains, lacquer, enamel, oil, varnish, fibreglass, metal coating or fire retardant using brushes, rollers or spray equipment
• Measure, cut and apply wallpaper or fabric to walls
• Assemble and erect scaffolding and swing stages
• May advise customer on selection of colour schemes and choice of wall coverings
• May provide cost estimates to clients.

Employment requirements

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• Completion of a three- to four-year apprenticeship program or Over three years of work experience in the trade is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
• Trade certification for painters and decorators is compulsory in Quebec and available, but voluntary, in all other provinces and the territories.
• Red Seal endorsement is also available to qualified painters and decorators upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.

Approved positions by year

All work permits by year

New permanent residents by year