Painters/Decorators apply coats of paint, varnish, staining, enamel or lacquer to decorate and protect interior or exterior surfaces, trimmings, and fixtures of buildings and other structures. Additionally, they may also prepare and cover room interior walls and ceilings with wallpaper, fabrics, vinyls and other materials.
Length of Apprenticeship:
Three (3) years.
- Apprentices spend 960 hours in the classroom during the three years of the program.
- Apprentices receive on-the-job training for four days per week and attend school one day per week.
Wage Information:
1st day of employment–initiation (Permit)
40% of journeyman wage
Initiation–40 days of completed classroom
50% of journeyman wage
41 days–60 days of completed classroom
65% of journeyman wage
61 days–80 days of completed classroom
70% of journeyman wage
81 days–100 days of completed classroom
75% of journeyman wage
101 days–120 days of completed classroom
80% of journeyman wage
After 120th day–Date of contract expiration
90% of journeyman wage
Journeyman Level 100% of journeyman wage
Benefits:
Welfare, Pension
Basic Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must have a high school diploma or a G.E.D. Certificate.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or have filed for citizenship.
- Must have a letter of “intent to hire” from a prospective employer.
- Must have reliable transportation.
- Must be physically fit to perform the job.
Working Conditions:
Painters work both inside and out.
Recommended Preparatory Classes:
Mathematics, art, and drafting classes.
Abilities:
- Must be able to work at high levels with ladders and scaffolds.
- Must be able to lift at least 80 pounds.
Work Experience:
(Helpful, but not necessary for acceptance.)
Previous experience with painting/decorating is beneficial.
Entry Process:
- Complete application. (Applications are available Monday–Friday from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. You must call before attempting to get an application.)
NOTE: You must present your high school diploma/G.E.D. Certificate and proof of citizenship at this time.
- Meet with the coordinator.
- Applicant receives a list of prospective employers.
- Applicant must seek a job.
- Once hired, prior to starting work, the applicant must again meet with the coordinator and present a letter of “intent to hire.”
- Applicant must pay a permit fee to P.D.C. #14.
- Apprentices will begin school within 30–45 days after receiving the work permit.
Contact:
Chicago Area Painting and Decorating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee
1101 Taft Avenue
Berkley, Illinois 60163
Phone: (708) 449-5282
Coordinator:
Gary B. Ellinger
