career

Plasterer

Plasterers are skilled tradespeople who create smooth surfaces on walls and ceilings. Their work forms the base for painters and interior decorators to transform spaces into livable and visually appealing interiors.

What does this job involve?

Measure

Room walls, work out plasterboard layout and install insulation.

Measure

And mark cutting lines, cut plasterboard, lift and position panels, and fix to walls, ceilings or battens.

Prepare

Cornices, ceiling centres and other plaster fittings.

Cover

Joins and nail holes with wet plaster or sealing compounds and smooth them using wet brushes and sandpaper.

Fix

Precast cornices and panel mouldings, ceiling centres and other plaster fittings.

Smooth

Set plaster by sanding

How do I get into this career?

The most common pathway is via an apprenticeship. It is highly recommended to seek work experience or reach out to businesses seeking apprentices. A plasterer can also start as a trade assistant or labourer, gaining experience which may count towards a qualification in the future.

Salary expectations

Low $59,475
Average $83,936
High $122,375

Recommended training

CERTIFICATE I IN CONSTRUCTION

PRE-TRADE PROGRAM INCLUDING WORK EXPERIENCE

CERTIFICATE III IN WALL AND CEILING LINING (APPRENTICESHIP)