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

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   2–4 months

   Learn surface prep and coatings

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

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

4. ✓

   Destination

   Industrial Painter

   Browse jobs now →

Course links are Udemy affiliate links. We earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.