Why Painting Jobs Are in Demand
- Steady Construction Growth: Home renovations and commercial builds have increased significantly since 2023.
- Worker Shortage: The U.S. expects over 130,000 open painter positions by 2026.
- Bilingual Advantage: Spanish-speaking crews are in high demand, especially in client-facing roles.
What You Can Expect to Earn (Estimated Ranges by Region)
| Region | Entry-Level Painters | Experienced Painters | With Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas (e.g., Houston) | $18–$22/hr | $25–$30/hr | $30+/hr |
| California (e.g., LA) | $20–$24/hr | $28–$35/hr | $35–$40/hr+ |
| Florida (e.g., Miami) | $17–$21/hr | $24–$28/hr | $30+/hr |
💡 Union jobs or specialized work (like industrial coatings) may pay 20–30% more.
5 Steps to Start Your Painting Career
1. Get Basic Training
- Short courses: Available at many community colleges or vocational centers.
- Apprenticeships: Programs offered by unions like IUPAT, including benefits and pay increases.
2. Learn Safety Rules
- Get your OSHA 10 or 30 certification.
- For older homes, the EPA RRP (Lead Safety) certification is often required.
3. Choose the Right Employer
- Look for companies with: Workers’ compensation insurance Safety training programs High employee satisfaction (check Glassdoor reviews)
- Ask during interviews: “Do you provide equipment and protective gear?” “How often do crews receive safety training?”
4. Watch for Job Opportunities
- Hiring peaks in spring and late summer.
- Use websites like: Indeed and LatinoHire Local Facebook groups (search "painting jobs + city")
- Keep an eye on new construction permits in your city (e.g., Sunbelt areas like Phoenix, Austin).
5. Consider a Long-Term Path
- Union jobs: More stable, offer pension and healthcare
- Specializations: Industrial painting: Higher pay, more travel Eco-painting: Growing demand for low-VOC/green products
- Going solo? Learn about licenses, bonding, and insurance requirements in your state.
Tools and Tech You Should Know
- Paint sprayers: Used on big jobs for faster application
- Job apps: Many companies use Jobber or Housecall Pro to assign jobs
- Color matching: Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore offer digital systems
Final Advice for Latino Workers
✅ Language is a strength – many crews are bilingual, and Spanish skills are a plus with Latino clients.
✅ Show up on time and be reliable – this is what helps workers get promoted fast.
✅ Ask questions during interviews – a good employer wants you to grow.
Conclusion
The painting industry is wide open in 2025, especially for motivated, hardworking individuals. With basic training and the right connections, Latino workers can find secure, well-paid roles or even start their own business. Whether you want steady union work or flexible independent jobs, this path offers solid opportunity.