Trades & Construction

How to become an Industrial Painter

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

3–9 months

Typical pay

$38k–$55k

Starting from

No experience

The steps

1. 1

   Learn surface prep and coatings

   The prep is the job; spraying is the easy part.

   2–4 months

2. 2

   Get confined space and respirator training

   Tank and bridge work requires both before you start.

   OSHA 10

   Course that covers thisOSHA 30-Hour Construction Practice Test 2026Udemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   Work toward a coating inspector ticket

   SSPC or NACE moves you to the higher-paid side of the trade.

   SSPC / NACE

Course links are Udemy affiliate links — we earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Licences and exams named above are issued by state boards and certifying bodies we have no relationship with; we list them because they are what the job actually requires.