How much does a painter helper make?

In the United States, painter helpers with stronger skills, better performance, and more time on the job may earn more. Pay also differs by employer and location, and outdoor work can mean hours change with the weather.

Help painters, paperhangers, plasterers, or stucco masons by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment. Construction laborers who do not primarily assist painters, paperhangers, plasterers, or stucco masons are classified under “Construction Laborers” (47-2061). Apprentice workers are classified with the appropriate skilled construction trade occupation (47-2011 through 47-2231).

What's a typical day like?

A painter helper may tape off nearby surfaces, hand the painter tools and materials, fill cracks, or smooth surfaces. Later, they clean tools and the work area; some jobs also involve ladders.

In the U.S., you can often start without a diploma, though some employers may ask for a high-school diploma or GED. Apply for an entry-level helper job and learn under an experienced painter’s supervision; training is mostly on the job.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

O*NET reports that 60% of surveyed painter helpers are outdoors in all kinds of weather every day—not just on sunny days!