Painting Apprenticeship

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated individual to begin their career as a Painting Apprentice with Sheforce, working day‑to‑day with our host employer, a leading structural steel manufacturer delivering major commercial and infrastructure projects across Melbourne.

This role is particularly suited to women looking to enter the trades, gain hands‑on experience, and build a long‑term career in painting and surface preparation. As a female‑led social enterprise, Sheforce is committed to creating safe, supported pathways into construction and manufacturing for people under‑represented in the industry.

Based at our host employer’s Sunshine West workshop, you will learn from highly skilled tradespeople while completing a nationally recognised qualification in Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CPC30620). Sheforce employs you directly and provides wrap‑around mentoring and support throughout your apprenticeship.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Preparing steel surfaces through cleaning, sanding, patching and repair

• Applying primers, sealers, undercoats and finishing coats

• Using brushes, rollers and spray equipment (with training)

• Mixing paints and handling materials safely

• Checking each coating layer for coverage, adhesion and finish

• Following job instructions, colour schedules and WHS procedures

• Participating in structured on‑the‑job learning and attending off‑site RTO training

 What We’re Looking For

We encourage applications from women considering a career change and looking for a supported entry point into the trades.

• A genuine interest in painting, coatings, or hands‑on technical work working with steel in a factory setting

• Good attention to detail and pride in producing quality work

• Strong teamwork and communication skills

• Reliability, punctuality and a positive attitude

• Commitment to completing a formal apprenticeship

• Driver’s licence and reliable transport

What You’ll Receive (Sheforce + Host Employer)

From Our Host Employer

• A modern, well‑equipped fabrication workshop in Sunshine West

• Exposure to major structural steel projects across Melbourne

• Skilled tradespeople committed to training and supporting new entrants

 From Sheforce (Your Employer)

• Full‑time employment under a formal training contract

• Above‑award pay, entitlements, and job security

• Ongoing mentoring, wellbeing support, and regular check‑ins

• A dedicated Field Officer to guide you through each stage

• A safe, inclusive environment designed to support women entering trades

 About Sheforce

Sheforce is Australia’s first female‑led construction social enterprise, creating pathways into trades for women and people under‑represented in the industry. We partner with high‑quality employers who share our commitment to safety, inclusion, and building a skilled future workforce.

When you join Sheforce, you become part of a community that champions diversity, supports your growth, and celebrates your success.

For more information, and to request a PD, contact Anita on email at ani••@sheforce.com.au