Everything you need to know about the Maler/in und Lackierer/in profession

What is a Maler/in und Lackierer/in (Painter and Varnisher)?

A Maler/in und Lackierer/in is a skilled tradesperson who paints, decorates, and protects interior and exterior surfaces of houses, public buildings and industrial facilities. The job combines craftsmanship with creativity in colours and design.

How does the training work?

• Dual vocational training (Ausbildung) lasting 3 years

• Mix of practical work on construction sites or in workshops and theoretical lessons at a vocational school (Berufsschule)

• Completed with a state-recognised journeyman’s certificate (Gesellenbrief)

Typical daily tasks

Surface preparation

• Cleaning and sanding old coatings

• Filling holes and cracks, levelling and priming walls and surfaces

Painting and coating

• Painting interior and exterior walls using different colours and techniques

• Coating windows, doors, façades, wooden and metal parts with suitable paints and varnishes

Decorative and design work

• Hanging different types of wallpaper (Tapeten)

• Creating decorative effects (e.g. sponge, glaze, or spatula techniques)

• Realising individual wall designs according to the client’s wishes

Surface protection

• Applying protective coatings against moisture, rust and weathering

• Contributing to façade protection and sometimes thermal insulation systems

Industrial coating (depending on employer)

• Painting cars, machines or large industrial parts

• Using spray guns and special coating systems

Where do painters and varnishers work?

• Painting and finishing companies

• Renovation and refurbishment firms

• Furniture and vehicle paint shops

• Construction and real estate companies

• Self-employment with their own painting business

Required skills

• Good manual skills and high precision

• Strong sense of colour and aesthetics

• Physical fitness and ability to work on scaffolding and ladders

• Knowledge of colour mixing and various coating techniques

• Attention to detail and a reliable, clean way of working

Career development opportunities

• Becoming a Maler- und Lackierermeister/in (master painter and varnisher) – leading teams, training apprentices, running your own business

• Specialising in:

  • Gestaltung und Instandhaltung (design and maintenance)

  • Kirchenmalerei und Denkmalpflege (church painting and monument conservation)

  • Bauten- und Korrosionsschutz (building and corrosion protection)

• Further training as a Techniker/in (e.g. in construction or surface protection)

• Studying fields such as interior design or crafts/business management

Summary

The profession of Maler/in und Lackierer/in combines craft and art:

• varied projects in new builds, renovations and historic buildings

• strong opportunities for self-employment and specialisation

• ideal for people who enjoy colours, design and practical, hands-on work