Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

Don't forget, you can also save your role comparisons by registering with us.  

  1. Painter and decorator

    Painters and decorators use a range of materials to keep walls and other surfaces smooth, protected and hygienic both inside buildings and outside.

    There are no set entry requirements. Employers usually expect a qualification in painting and decorating, such as an NVQ, certificate or diploma. They may also expect some experience of construction work. Employers may ask for qualifications and/or experience in other related areas such as plastering or tiling. Although painters often join the NHS fully qualified and experienced, it may be possible to train in painting and decorating. Employers usually ask for GCSEs (or equivalent) including English and maths and may ask for a driving licence. When you start as a trainee painter and decorator, your training will include health and safety, how to use the tools and equipment and all aspects of painting and decorating. You will be expected to study for qualifications such as NVQs. You may also be encouraged to become multi-skilled by training in eg plumbing and tiling.
    Estates staff working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. As an estates support worker, you would typically start on AfC band 2. As a qualified painter you will typically start on AfC band 3. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions at bands 4 and above. Painters in the NHS work standard hours of around 37.5 a week. The job may involve early starts and weekend working. Terms and conditions will usually be different for painters working outside of the NHS.
    Painters need to be interested in design and colour, methodical, able to work quickly and accurately, good at measuring, physically fit (for lifting, standing, bending, etc), willing to work at heights, indoors and outside, health and safety aware and able to work alone or in a team. They also need practical skills, good manual (hand) skills and organisational skills.
    With experience, you could become a team leader, supervising the work of others. With further experience, you could become a manager, responsible for the maintenance and repairs service for a hospital, area or trust. There may be opportunities to move into other estates services roles Some painters become self-employed by setting up a business, either on their own or with one or more colleagues.
Make a comment or report a problem with this page

Help us improve

This form is for you to tell us about something that could be improved about the website or if there's anything wrong, incorrect or inaccurate with what you see. 

If you have a query about a career in the NHS, please visit our contact us page and call or email us.