Painters apply paint, varnish, wallpaper and other finishes to props, scenery and sets on film productions.  They usually have at least two years' experience of working as domestic painters before entering the film industry, where they are often expected to carry out complex decorative tasks.  They must have good knowledge of colour, shade and texture, as well as creative flair, close attention to detail, and the ability to work to strict deadlines.

Responsibilities
Working under the supervision of Chargehand Painters, Painters in the film industry are responsible for carrying out many of the tasks associated with domestic painters, e.g., surface preparation, which involves using cleaning materials, stripping aids and fillers; and applying sealers, fungicidal washes, primers, undercoating and finishing materials with a brush or roller.  In addition, they are responsible for a wide range of more advanced tasks, such as applying specific finishes to their work: this may involve painting cars with a metallic finish; using a spray gun to cover a huge background surface; applying fine specialist finishes such as replica marbling and graining effects to sets; applying paint to pipes to make them look old and rusty; and hanging large wall coverings. 

Other advanced responsibilities include producing complex stencil designs and applying transfer gold to ornate areas.  Painters usually supply their own tools, such as specialised brushes, and occasionally their own paints, e.g., crackle glazes and certain washes.  They are responsible for helping to erect and dismantle the working platforms needed to access painting sites.  Painters are initially briefed by Chargehand Painters, who explain which finishes are needed and where they are to be applied, and what colour schemes are to be used.  They are responsible for ensuring that their work is completed to the standards and deadlines set by Chargehand Painters.  Painters must adhere to strict Health and Safety guidelines, carry out their tasks in a safe work environment, and clean up and dispose of any waste in their work area.

Skills
Painters in the film industry must have excellent craft skills in painting and decorating.  Additionally, they need strong creative abilities, combined with a good eye for colour and texture. They must be skilled at applying a range of advanced decorative finishes, such as broken colour effects, replica wood graining and marbling effects, and complex stencil designs.  They need good communication skills, and must work well as part of a team, be hard working, and punctual.

Qualifications/Experience
Painters in the film industry usually progress to this role after spending at least two years working as domestic painters and decorators.  Most Painters have accredited qualifications, such as the Intermediate Construction Award, or a CITB NVQ in Painting and Decorating at Level 2.  Detailed knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures when working with paints is essential.  As the role involves travel, a full EU driving licence is required.

Individual course accreditation in certain subject areas is currently being piloted. As part of Skillset's and the UK Film Council's Film Skills Strategy, A Bigger Future, a network of Screen Academies and a Film Business Academy have been approved as centres of excellence in education and training for film.

Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.