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Painter
The painter protects and enhances the interior and exterior surfaces of a building. They prepare the surfaces before application, then apply paints, varnishes, or coatings according to the needs of the project.
Missions: Painter
The painter steps in at the final stage of a construction project, when everything depends on the quality of the finish. They prepare the surfaces by cleaning, sanding, and filling imperfections before applying the paint or coating.
Their role goes far beyond simply using a roller: they choose suitable products, mix paints, and ensure that the work area is protected (floors, woodwork, furniture). They may also hang wallpaper, apply decorative coatings, or create textured effects based on the client’s preferences.
On certain projects, the painter also acts as an advisor, helping clients choose the most appropriate colors and finishes for the space. They work on both new constructions and renovation projects, for private clients, businesses, or public institutions.
A profession requiring precision and patience, painting demands attention to detail, discipline, and strong coordination skills. In temporary assignments, painters can work on a wide range of projects, broaden their experience, and refine their techniques in diverse environments.
Researched profile
- Manual skill and precision, essential for achieving clean, uniform finishes on any type of surface.
- Knowledge of materials and products, to select the most suitable paint or coating for each project.
- Rigor, autonomy, and attention to detail, ensuring high-quality work and adherence to deadlines.
- Good physical condition and team spirit, crucial for working on diverse sites and collaborating effectively.
Skills and training
The painting profession requires as much technical skill as attention to detail. It demands mastery of techniques, solid knowledge of materials, and a refined sense of aesthetics.
Mastering Preparation and Application Techniques
Before applying any color, the painter prepares the surfaces: sanding, filling, cleaning, and applying primer coats to ensure a durable finish. They know how to use different tools, roller, brush, or spray gun and adjust their method depending on the type of surface.
Knowing Products and Surfaces
Each project requires specific materials: paints, varnishes, coatings, wall or floor coverings. The painter must understand their properties, application conditions, and compatibility with different surfaces, while respecting safety rules and environmental standards.
Combining Precision, Rigor, and Artistic Sense
A painter’s work is visible at first glance. They must demonstrate meticulousness, manual dexterity, and a good eye for color and harmony. A clean, even finish directly reflects their professionalism.
Being Organized and Working as a Team
On a worksite, the painter must manage their time, prepare their tools, and coordinate their tasks with other tradespeople. In temporary work, these qualities are essential to adapt quickly to new environments and ensure flawless results from the very first days.
Training to become a painter
The CAP Peintre Applicateur de Revêtements (Painter and Coating Applicator Certificate) remains the most common entry point. This two-year program, offered in vocational schools or through apprenticeships, covers surface preparation, paint and coating application, safety, and site organization.
To advance, painters can pursue a BP (Professional Certificate) or a Bac Pro in Building Finishing and Interior Design, which provide greater autonomy, team management, and project supervision skills. Professional qualifications also exist for specialization in decorative painting, technical coatings, façades, or external thermal insulation (ETI).
For career changers, short training programs (AFPA, GRETA, or specialized centers) allow them to quickly acquire the basics or refresh their knowledge. Work-study programs remain the best way to progress fast, combining theory with real-world experience and improving employability.
Painter Salary
Salaries vary depending on experience, region, project complexity, and employment status. At the start of their career, a painter typically earns around the French minimum wage for 35 hours, or €1,801.80 gross per month in 2025, with starting pay often between €1,950 and €2,100 gross. With 3 to 5 years of experience, salaries generally range between €2,300 and €2,700 gross per month, and can reach €2,800–€3,200 gross for team leaders, façade specialists, or high-end finishing experts.
In temporary work, hourly rates are often higher, with additional end-of-assignment compensation (IFM) and paid-leave compensation (ICCP), about 10% each, increasing total income. Site bonuses, overtime, and travel allowances can also enhance pay depending on company practices and collective agreements.
Where Do Painters Work?
Painters work in a variety of environments: private homes, offices, shops, public buildings, and energy renovation sites.
In new construction, they prepare surfaces and apply the finishing touches that enhance the completed structure. In renovation, they restore surfaces, repair defects, and adapt materials to the specific site constraints.
Painters may specialize in façade work, interior decoration, or wall and floor coverings, and can work for a painting company, a construction group, a local authority, or as independent contractors.
In temporary work, assignments allow painters to alternate between different projects and techniques, gain experience faster, and expand their professional network.
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