Plasterer

Your Fit

Income

$56K

Preparation

Minimal

Growth

2.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Plasterer?

A Plasterer is a skilled tradesperson specializing in mixing and applying plaster to walls and ceilings to create smooth or decorative finishes. They work in both residential and commercial settings, applying plaster for aesthetic and protective purposes.

Sample job titles:

Plaster Applicator, Plaster Mechanic, Plasterer, Plasterer Journeyman

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Plasterer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Plasterer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$39K per year	$47K per year	$56K per year	$72K per year	$93K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $6.52K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Plasterer do?

Work environment

Plasterers typically work on construction sites, both indoors and outdoors. Their work may be physically demanding, often involving bending, climbing, and lifting heavy materials. Plasterers may work in various weather conditions and usually work full-time, with some overtime required to meet project deadlines.

Quick task list

Mixes plaster to the right consistency.
Applies plaster to walls and ceilings using trowels, brushes, or spray equipment.
Creates decorative textures and finishes.
Follows blueprints and designs to meet client specifications.
Ensures surfaces are prepared properly before plastering.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Decorative Plastering: Specializing in creating textured or ornamental finishes.
Restorative Plastering: Focusing on the repair and restoration of historical buildings.
Drywall Plastering: Applying plaster to drywall systems in modern construction.
Acoustic Plastering: Specializing in plastering techniques that enhance soundproofing.
Exterior Plastering: Applying and finishing plaster on external walls and facades.

Description

Plasterers play a vital role in both construction and renovation projects. They are responsible for the aesthetic and functional aspects of a building's interior and exterior walls and ceilings. A successful plasterer must have a good understanding of different plaster mixes and techniques to suit various applications and client needs.

Attention to detail is crucial in this occupation, as is the ability to follow complex designs and blueprints. Physical stamina and dexterity are also important, as plasterers often work in challenging positions and handle heavy materials. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team is essential, as plasterers often collaborate with other construction professionals.

Plastering is not just about applying materials to surfaces; it's an art that requires creativity, especially when working on decorative finishes. Plasterers need to stay updated with new materials and techniques, ensuring their skills remain relevant in a changing industry.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The creative aspect of designing and applying decorative finishes.
The tangible results of their work, contributing to the building's aesthetic and functionality.
The variety of projects and environments, ensuring diverse and interesting work experiences.

You might make a good Plasterer if you are...

Physically fit and comfortable with manual labor.
Detail-oriented, with a keen eye for aesthetics.
Patient and meticulous, able to focus on precise and quality work.
Good at problem-solving and adapting to different work situations.
Enjoy working with your hands and creating tangible results.

Pros:

Opportunity to work on a variety of projects and places.
High demand in both new construction and renovation sectors.
Satisfaction from creating both functional and artistic finishes.

Cons:

Physically demanding work with potential for injury.
Exposure to dust and chemicals, requiring safety precautions.
Work can be seasonal, depending on climate and construction cycles.

How to become a Plasterer

Typical education

Becoming a plasterer typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a 3-4 year apprenticeship program. This equates to approximately 3-4 years of combined education and on-the-job training.

High school preparation

Courses:

Art and Design for developing an eye for detail and creativity.
Shop or vocational classes to gain hands-on skills with tools and materials.
Mathematics for understanding measurements and geometrical patterns.
Physical Education to build stamina and physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in building or construction projects.
Joining arts and crafts clubs to enhance creativity.
Volunteering in community renovation or construction projects.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in a vocational or technical school offering plastering or masonry courses.
Seek apprenticeships with construction firms or experienced plasterers.
Attend workshops or seminars on new materials and techniques in plastering.

More resources

National Plasterers Council (NPC) - Offers resources and information on the plastering trade.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Provides detailed job descriptions and educational pathways.
Home Builders Institute (HBI) - Offers training and career development in the building industry.
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) - Provides apprenticeship and craft training programs in various construction trades.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.