Decorative painter, construction

What does a decorative painter in the construction industry do? – Tasks and work environment

A decorative painter in the construction industry works with creating and restoring aesthetic surfaces on walls, ceilings, and other building components. Tasks can include applying decorative techniques such as marbleizing, graining, and stencil painting, as well as restoring historic environments or creating unique artistic expressions in modern interiors. The work is often performed on-site during building construction, renovation, or restoration, which means varied environments—from dusty construction sites to sensitive cultural heritage sites. Collaboration with other professionals, such as carpenters and interior architects, is common and requires both precision and a good sense of color and form.

Salary development over time

The salary for decorative painters in construction has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,300 SEK per month, which increased to 39100 SEK in 2023. The latest statistics from 2024 show an average monthly salary of 41 100 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 7.3% over the period. Factors driving this salary growth include increased demand for specialized decorative work, a growing focus on restoring older buildings, and a general appreciation of craftsmanship within the construction sector. Women in the profession earn on average 91% of their male colleagues' salaries, reflecting a slight gender pay gap that has decreased somewhat over time.

Decorative painter in construction salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 247 SEK
• Women: 40 200 SEK/month
• Men: 44,400 SEK/month
• Women earn: 91% of men's salary
• Regional differences: Salaries can vary depending on region and type of employer, with larger cities often offering slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a decorative painter in construction, a vocational upper secondary education in painting is usually required, complemented by specialized courses in decorative techniques. Practical experience is highly valued, and many professionals have completed apprenticeships or internships with established decorative painters. Certifications or further training in conservation and restoration painting can be advantageous, especially when working in cultural heritage environments.

• Vocational upper secondary education: Construction and civil engineering program with a focus on painting (3 years)
• Specialized courses: Decorative painting, graining, marbleizing
• Internship/apprenticeship: Strongly recommended to deepen technical skills
• Certifications: Possibility to obtain certificates in restoration and conservation
• Prerequisites: Basic color and form sense, accuracy, and patience

Common benefits and compensations

Decorative painters in the construction industry often have access to benefits such as collective agreement pension contributions, wellness allowances, and work clothing. Other common compensations may include per diems for work at different locations, insurance coverage, and opportunities for further education. Tools and materials are often provided by the employer.

Competition and challenges

Competition within the profession of decorative painter in construction is moderate but varies depending on region and economic conditions. The biggest challenge is establishing oneself in the market and building a good reputation, especially for those working as self-employed. Since tasks are often project-based, workload can be uneven at times. Additionally, the profession requires continuous updating of technical and artistic skills to meet client demands and stay relevant in the job market. Demand is highest in larger cities and areas with cultural heritage projects, where renovations and restorations are common.

Tips for those who want to become a decorative painter in construction

To succeed as a decorative painter in construction, it’s beneficial to have a combination of artistic sense, precision, and endurance. Building a portfolio early through internships or personal projects can be crucial for demonstrating skills. A keen eye for detail helps when performing advanced techniques, while patience and perseverance are needed for long, demanding workdays. Good communication and teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with other professionals on site. Finally, curiosity and a continuous desire to learn are advantageous, as materials and methods evolve rapidly in the industry.

Key facts about decorative painters in construction

• Average salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational upper secondary education with specialization
• Work environment: Construction sites and cultural heritage environments
• Number of available jobs: 620
• Typical employment type: Project-based employment or self-employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a decorative painter in construction, opportunities exist to advance to supervisory roles, project management, or specialize in restoration and cultural heritage projects. Some choose to start their own business and take on larger, more complex projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no specific assessment is made for this profession due to limited statistical data, but within related fields such as interior designers, decorators, and set designers, there are currently 620 available jobs, indicating a relatively good demand in the job market. Future outlooks are primarily influenced by economic conditions, the development of the construction sector, and interest in cultural heritage and restoration.

Frequently asked questions about decorative painters in construction

• What does a decorative painter in construction earn?
  - The average salary is 41 100 SEK per month, but it varies between 36,200 SEK and 45,600 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a decorative painter in construction?
  - A vocational upper secondary education in painting with a focus on decorative techniques is most common, often supplemented with practical training.
• Are there many jobs for decorative painters in construction?
  - There are 620 available jobs, but competition varies depending on region and specialization.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of what men do in the profession.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, artistic sense, and endurance are especially valued for success in the profession.
• What is the work environment like for decorative painters in construction?
  - The work environment is varied and can include construction sites as well as cultural heritage sites.
• What is the hourly wage for a decorative painter in construction?
  - The average hourly wage is 247 SEK based on full-time employment.