Plasterer

A Plasterer applies plaster, stucco, and similar coatings to walls and ceilings, creating smooth or decorative finishes on interior and exterior surfaces. This role involves preparing surfaces, mixing materials to the right consistency, and using trowels and other hand tools with precision to achieve high-quality and durable finishes. Creates aesthetically pleasing and protective surfaces for buildings, contributing to structural integrity, insulation, and the overall finish quality of residential and commercial properties.

A Plasterer earns a median of $55,000 per year in the US, typically ranging from $40,000 to $75,000.

To become a Plasterer, apprenticeship, vocational training, or significant on-the-job experience is typical. Some may pursue certifications in specific plastering techniques.

Plasterer roles tend to suit people who are highly conscientious — precise, organised and strong on follow-through (Conscientiousness 76/100) and steady under pressure — deadlines and setbacks do not rattle them easily (Emotional Stability 72/100). The traits that matter most in the role are Conscientious, Practical, Steady and Task-focused. Applies meticulous attention to detail and follows procedures to ensure high-quality and durable finishes. On interests, Plasterer maps to a RCA Holland Code profile — individuals who enjoy hands-on, practical work with materials, value precision, and appreciate creating visually appealing finishes are well-suited to this role.

A Plasterer role is usually a strong fit for these reasons. High Realistic affinity: the role is centered around hands-on work with tools and materials. Strong Conventional component: requires precision, adherence to standards, and methodical work. Opportunity for Artistic expression: allows for creating decorative and visually appealing finishes.

Plasterer roles come with trade-offs worth weighing up. Requires significant physical stamina and comfort working in various weather conditions. Can involve early starts, travel between job sites, and occasional weekend work due to project demands.

Work as a Plasterer is mostly field-based with onsite arrangements common, semi-structured — a mix of set processes and self-directed work, a moderate pace and medium exposure to clients or stakeholders. Around 55% of the week is focused deep work.

Core skills for a Plasterer include Surface preparation, Material mixing and application, Trowel and float techniques, Precision finishing and Attention to detail.

Common entry routes into Plasterer roles include Construction Laborer, Construction Apprentice and General Handyman.

From a Plasterer role, common next steps include Lead Plasterer, Construction Foreman and Independent Plastering Contractor; lateral moves include Drywall Installer and Mason.

The outlook for Plasterer roles is currently rated stable. Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Traitstack rates automation risk for Plasterer roles at 23 out of 100, which is low. The artistry of mixing materials and applying bespoke plaster or stucco finishes will remain human-driven, with AI offering limited support for surface preparation and planning. AI is most likely to take on optimizing material mix ratios for different applications, calculating material quantities for specific areas and assisting with surface preparation diagnostics. Preparing varied surfaces by cleaning and applying bonding agents, finely tuning material consistency based on environmental factors and applying multiple coats of plaster/stucco using trowels and floats stay with people. The tools may evolve, but the artistic hand-craft of finishes will endure. That score measures how much of the work could change, not the likelihood the job disappears. It is Traitstack's current view, revisited as AI capability moves.