Become a Drywall Finisher and Plasterer
Smooth the surface. Perfect the finish. Bring walls to life.
A Drywall Finisher and Plasterer surfaces, tapes, and finishes wallboard (drywall). Applies, maintains, and restores plaster and similar materials on interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and building partitions to make them more decorative, soundproof, and fire-rated. Textures concrete, applies coats of plaster to foundation materials, and installs, repairs, and restores mouldings and ornaments.
Key Skills Needed
- Attention to detail
- Hand-eye coordination
- Physical endurance
- Problem-solving skills
- Math and measuring skills
- Planning and organization skills
Typical Mid-Range Hourly Rate
28
Career Outlook
Good - The odds of finding work in this field are good for someone who is qualified.
Pathways Into the Trade
- Pre-Apprenticeship
Take a program at a college or training institution to build foundational skills before starting your apprenticeship. - Direct Entry
Start working with a certified journeyperson and begin your apprenticeship right away - no experience needed. Most apprentices spend about 80% of their time on the job and 20% in training. - Trade Experience
If you already have experience – whether in Canada or internationally – you may be able to challenge the trade qualifier exam and become certified.
Working Conditions
- Work on residential, commercial, and institutional construction projects
- Spend most of the time indoors on new construction and renovation sites
- Use hand tools, power tools, and automatic taping equipment
- Work at heights using ladders, scaffolds and lifts
- Exposure to dust, noise and construction site conditions
- Perform repetitive physical work involving standing, bending and lifting
*Profile data compiled by Labour, Skills and Immigration – AskLMI@novascotia.ca