Skip to the main content
Go to the search page
Plasterers apply dry linings, plaster and cement mixtures to walls and ceilings, fix fibrous sheets and cast and fix ornamental plasterwork to the interior or exterior of buildings.

Main tasks

  • Checks surface level using line, spirit level and straight edge.
  • Covers and seals joints between boards and finishes surface.
  • Measures, cuts, installs and secures plaster board and/or ornamental plasterwork to walls and ceilings.
  • Pours liquid plaster into mould to cast ornamental plaster work.
  • Applies and smooths one or more coats of plaster and produces a finished surface, using hand tools or mechanical spray.
  • Mixes, or directs the mixing of, plaster to desired consistency.
  • Selects appropriate plasterboard or dry lining panels, cuts them to required size and fixes them to ceilings and walls.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£37,842.45

Average earnings

£25,956.44

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Monitoring

Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

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.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Design

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

Public Safety and Security

Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 3 NVQ; A Levels

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 17%
Level 1 12%
Level 2 30%
Level 3 40%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 0%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 2%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.