They are usually laid off during periods of damp or rainy weather, as are many other workers in construction. In some areas of California, they may be out of work for three months, or longer, each year because of poor weather. Employment also fall when depends on good economic conditions which boost construction activity. Employment in most of the State is highest during the spring, summer and early fall when construction activity is at its peak. Advancement Promotion for painters and paperhangers is usually by going through the regular skill levels to reach journey-level.
Some workers advance to supervisor, superintendent, cost estimator or sales associate.
Many become self-employed, but the competition for jobs is tough. Workers must have four years of journey-level experience in the past 10 years to qualify for the contractor test. Painters can get information on government job opportunities from city and county personnel offices, Federal Job Information Centers, and the California State Personnel Board. Persons looking for an apprenticeship can contact the nearest local of the Painters' Union, prospective employers, Division of Apprenticeship Standards, or the local Joint Apprenticeship Committee. For a list of current job listing, browse Caljobs or America's Job Bank .