Painters and Paperhangers

Employment of painters is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.  Increased construction will generate a need for more painters to work on new buildings and industrial structures. However, this will also lead to increased competition among self-employed painters and painting contractors for the better jobs. Newer types of paint have made it easier for inexperienced persons to do their own painting, but this does not affect the employment outlook much because most painters and paperhangers work on industrial and commercial projects and are not dependent on residential work.

Many job openings will occur as other workers retire, transfer, or otherwise leave the occupation. Turnover is very high in this trade.

Opportunities for paperhangers also are expected to experience average growth through 2028. However, because this is a smaller specialized trade, only 500 jobs will be created in the next 10 years. Additionally, homeowners are taking advantage of less expensive and easier-to-apply alternatives such as painting.