Career Profile

Plasterers and Stucco Masons

What they do:

Apply interior or exterior plaster, cement, stucco, or similar materials. May also set ornamental plaster.

Also Called:

Applicator, Artisan Plasterer, Plaster and Stucco Worker, Plaster Applicator, Plaster Mechanic, Plasterer, Plasterer Journeyman, Plastering Contractor, Applicator, Artisan Plasterer, Plaster and Stucco Worker, Plaster Applicator, Plaster Mechanic, Plasterer, Plasterer Journeyman, Plastering Contractor
$39,560
Starting Salary (2025)
$57,660
Median Salary (2025)
4.1%
Projected Job Growth
19,310
Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Create decorative textures in finish coat, using brushes or trowels, sand, pebbles, or stones.
Clean job sites.
Determine materials needed to complete the job and place orders accordingly.
Apply coats of plaster or stucco to walls, ceilings, or partitions of buildings, using trowels, brushes, or spray guns.
Cover surfaces such as windows, doors, or sidewalks to protect from splashing.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Integrity
Self-Control
Cooperation
Initiative

What key skills are needed for this job?

Quality Control Analysis
Time Management
Active Listening
Speaking
Operations Monitoring
Monitoring

Expected Knowledge

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Administration and Management

Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Common Activities

Getting Information

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Performing General Physical Activities

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Handling and Moving Objects

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 1

Little or No Preparation Needed

Education

Some of these occupations may require a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Experience

Little or no previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few days to a few months of training. Usually, an experienced worker could show you how to do the job.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Less than high school 68%
  • High school diploma 28%
  • Post-secondary certificate 3%
  • Associate's degree 1%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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