Concrete Finisher Career
Introduction to the Career
Concrete finishers are skilled workers who specialize in finishing concrete surfaces. They are responsible for creating a smooth, even, and visually appealing finish on concrete surfaces for various construction projects, including sidewalks, driveways, floors, and walls. Concrete finishers need to have an excellent understanding of concrete mixtures, treatments, and handling techniques to achieve the desired results.
Career Values, Traits, and Skills
Concrete finishers require a range of personal and professional qualities to perform their job effectively, such as:
- Physical endurance and strength
- Attention to detail
- Manual dexterity
- Good communication skills
- Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
- Time management and ability to meet deadlines
- Knowledge of concrete mixtures and their properties
- Ability to read and interpret construction plans and blueprints.
Career Path
To become a concrete finisher, individuals usually need to complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program. On-the-job training is typically required to learn the necessary skills and techniques, as new projects have different requirements to provide the desired finish. Also, most employers prefer hiring people with relevant work experience, so it’s essential to acquire on-the-job experience.
Salary Range
The average annual salary for a concrete finisher in the U.S. is around $40,000 per year or $19 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wages vary based on factors such as location, experience, and skills.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to succeed in a concrete finishing career:
- Obtain formal training or apprenticeships to learn the needed skills
- Keep up-to-date with new concrete finishing technologies and techniques
- Improve communication and teamwork skills
- Develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to troubleshoot any issues that arise during the construction project.
References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics. Concrete Finishers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and-extraction/cement-masons-and-concrete-finishers.htm
- Trades Training BC. Concrete Finisher. https://tradesecretsbc.ca/query/course/detail/23/concrete-finisher
