Demo

Painter

Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 4/22/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/21/2026
About The Art Institute Of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago shares its singular collections with our city and the world. We collect, care for, and interpret works of art across time, cultures, geographies, and identities. We are a place of gathering and learning, committed to fostering an inclusive understanding of human creativity.

About The Department

The Department of Facilities and Logistics is responsible for the repair and maintenance of the museum facilities and for non-art related operations and logistics. Functions in the department include Buildings and Grounds, Carpentry, Painting, Engineering, Mail Center, and Warehouse Logistics and Fulfillment.

Position Summary

The position is responsible for painting, taping, and staining a variety of surfaces in a professional manner. Skill sets include, but are not limited to, seal joints between wood, plasterboard, and other wallboard materials to prepare wall surfaces for painting or papering. NOTE; this position is for a commercially trained journeyman painter, NOT an “artist.” Our gallery walls are not drywall, they are made of ½” plywood but must be taped as though it was drywall. The purpose is to give the art installers options as to where they can hang artwork. We also build and finish artwork cases and platforms on-site so advanced patching and taping skills are essential.

Responsibilities

  • Mix, match and apply paints, stains, varnishes & faux finish glazes to various surfaces.
  • Scrape, sand, prime or seal surfaces prior to painting.
  • Maintain surface appearances by washing them when needed (walls, doors etc.).
  • Reasonably calculate amounts of required materials for projects.
  • Fill cracks, holes, and joints with caulk, putty, plaster, or other fillers, using caulking guns, putty knives and or taping tools.
  • Erect ladders, scaffolding and or scissor lifts to gain access to difficult areas.
  • Move furniture and equipment as necessary.
  • Remove fixtures such as pictures, doorknobs, lamps, and electric switch covers prior to painting.
  • Mask off areas and or cover with plastic, paper or drop cloths when needed.
  • Remove paint splatters where needed.
  • Properly clean up and maintain all equipment including brushes, rollers and spray guns.
  • Utilize spray guns such as airless and HVLP.
  • Keep updated on required online training referred to as “Bridge training.”
  • Adhere to all safety protocols.
  • Perform a yearly half mask respirator fit test that requires clean shaven skin where the respirator meets the face in order to provide an airtight seal for proper protection.
  • Great attention to detail of the finished products.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • 5 years of verifiable related work experience.
  • Demonstrated ability and skill, typically achieved through painter’s apprenticeship program.
  • Successful completion of safety training virtually or in person, including, but not limited to: Asbestos Awareness, Hazard Communications, Fire Safety/Extinguisher Use, Personal Protective Equipment, Machine Guarding, Ladder and Aerial Lift, Lock Out-Tag Out, Back Injury Prevention, Hearing Conservation, Hand and Power Tool Safety and Driver Safety (we frequently perform online training to keep this up to date).
  • Must have general knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and equipment used in painting.
  • Knowledge of mixing and matching colors and types of paint.
  • Ability to follow procedures, instructions, and communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Must be able to work in a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
  • Have a good disposition for teamwork and open communication for safety and professionalism.

Physical Requirements

  • Periodic lifting and moving 50 lbs. without assistance.
  • Frequent walking, squatting, and kneeling.
  • Stretching and reaching overhead and below the waist.
  • Elevated work; work on ladders and scissor lifts to reach high ceilings or walls.
  • Climbing stairs, scaffolding and extension ladders.
  • Using/wearing Personal Protective Equipment as required including, but not limited to, respirators, protective footwear and eyewear.

Compensation & Benefits

Please click on the links below to view our competitive, comprehensive benefits package:

  • Hiring Range

The expected hiring range is an estimated amount for positions based on the grade. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, qualifications and other job-related reasons.

  • Benefits
  • PTO Overview
  • Job Classification: Non-exempt
  • Employment Category: Full-time
  • Grade Level: 7

If you are accessing this listing from a third party, not all links to salary and benefits information may work. Please visit our career page at saic/artic.edu/employment for complete information

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume and cover letter to be considered for this position.

Union

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.

Accessibility

If You Are a Job Seeker With a Disability And Require a Reasonable Accommodation To Apply For One Of Our Jobs, You Will Find The Contact Information To Request The Appropriate Accommodation By Visiting The Following Page

Accessibility Accommodation for Applicants

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Art Institute of Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits, hires and promotes qualified individuals compliant with federal and state laws. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact the Department of Human Resources at apply_help@artic.edu.

Salary.com Estimation for Painter in Chicago, IL
$56,063 to $75,089
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