Construction painter

What does a Construction Painter do? – Tasks and Work Environment

Construction Painters work on painting and corrosion protection of steel structures at construction sites, industrial facilities, and infrastructure projects. Tasks include surface preparation, application of various paint systems, and quality control according to applicable standards. The work often takes place at high altitudes or in confined spaces, requiring good physical condition and precision. The work environment can be challenging with exposure to dust, solvents, and noise, making safety routines an important part of daily work.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for Construction Painters has increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,500 SEK per month, rising to 34 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 36 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% between 2022 and 2024. The growth can largely be explained by continued high demand for trained painters in the construction and infrastructure sectors, as well as increased focus on maintenance of infrastructure and industrial buildings. The shortage of skilled painters has also contributed to rising wages. Despite a relatively stable market, salary development is expected to continue as recruitment needs persist.

Construction Painter Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 36 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,500 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 221 SEK
• Women: 32 600 SEK/month (86% of men's salary)
• Men: 37 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Slight variations, but highest wages are found in the regional sector

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Construction Painter, a high school education in painting is usually required, often complemented by an apprenticeship. After training, certifications in corrosion protection painting or working at heights can be advantageous. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers seek documented experience in industrial painting and safety work.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program, painting specialization (3 years)
• Apprenticeship: Usually 1-2 years after high school
• Certifications: For example, training in corrosion protection painting or working at heights
• Practical training: Mandatory part of education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for high school

Common Benefits and Compensation

Construction Painters are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pensions, insurance, and sickness benefits. Work clothing, protective equipment, and wellness allowances are typically offered by the employer. Overtime pay and per diems may be added for work during inconvenient hours, especially for projects outside the home region.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of Construction Painter is characterized by high demand and a significant shortage of trained personnel, offering good employment prospects for qualified individuals. Challenges mainly involve managing physically demanding work under sometimes difficult weather conditions and adhering to strict safety regulations. Competition for jobs is currently relatively low but can vary regionally depending on the construction cycle. Technological advances and new materials may also require ongoing further training. For those seeking career advancement, there are opportunities to specialize or move into supervisory roles.

Tips for Aspiring Construction Painters

To succeed as a Construction Painter, it is beneficial to have a keen eye for detail and be meticulous, as quality standards are often high. Endurance and good physical condition are important since the work can be heavy and strenuous, especially outdoors in tough environments. The ability to work independently is a plus, but effective collaboration with colleagues and other trades is equally important. Flexibility and adaptability help handle varied tasks and rapid changes on site. A continuous desire to learn new techniques and stay updated with industry developments is key to long-term success. Good communication skills facilitate customer interactions and teamwork on construction sites. Finally, safety awareness is crucial to minimize risks in daily work.

Key Facts about Construction Painters

• Education level: High school with apprenticeship
• Work environment: Construction sites, industrial facilities, often outdoors and at heights
• Demand: High nationwide, shortage of trained personnel
• Work form: Full-time, often project-based
• Special skills: Corrosion protection painting and working at heights

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After a few years of experience as a Construction Painter, opportunities open to take on more advanced tasks or to further train as a supervisor, project manager, or specialist in areas such as corrosion protection or industrial painting. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that job opportunities in the Painter profession remain strong and that demand is expected to stay stable over the next five years. The shortage of qualified workers ensures stable prospects for those establishing themselves in the field. For those considering a career change, related occupations such as construction worker, tiler, or industrial painter can be alternatives. Currently, there are 379 job openings in the profession, indicating a strong labor market.

Frequently Asked Questions about Construction Painters

• What does a Construction Painter earn?
  - A Construction Painter has an average salary of 36 800 SEK per month, but the salary varies based on experience, gender, and employer.
• Are there significant salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 37 700 SEK while women earn 32 600 SEK, which corresponds to 86% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for Construction Painters?
  - Demand is high and there is a shortage of trained personnel, with good future prospects according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What education is required to become a Construction Painter?
  - High school education in painting and an apprenticeship are the most common pathways, often supplemented with certifications.
• What are the occupational health and safety risks in the profession?
  - The work can involve exposure to solvents, noise, and working at heights, requiring precision and safety awareness.
• How does the salary development look over time?
  - Salaries have increased steadily in recent years, with an increase of almost 7% between 2022 and 2024.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include further training to become a supervisor, project manager, or specialist in areas such as corrosion protection painting.