Workers begin by cleaning and preparing surfaces, including taping drywall and protecting nearby areas from splashing. They mix mortar and plaster to the proper consistency, then apply multiple coats using trowels, brushes, or spray guns. Between coats, they rough up surfaces with scratchers to ensure proper adhesion and may create decorative textures using specialized tools, sand, or stones. They install insulation systems on building exteriors and apply weatherproof coatings to protect structures. Work involves inspecting surfaces for quality and curing freshly plastered areas to achieve the desired finish.
This role suits individuals with strong realistic interests who enjoy working with their hands and creating tangible results. Success requires excellent arm-hand steadiness, manual dexterity, and trunk strength for extended periods of physical work. Workers need near vision abilities to detect imperfections and maintain attention to detail while ensuring consistent application. The job demands dependability and cautiousness, as mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to correct. Those who thrive appreciate working outdoors and indoors, solving problems related to surface preparation and application techniques.
Manual dexterity requirements, arm-hand steadiness, and the need for artistic judgment in creating decorative textures provide moderate protection from automation. While spray application equipment continues to improve efficiency, the core tasks of surface preparation, quality assessment, and detail work remain largely manual processes requiring human skill and adaptability.
Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
| TERM | COUNT | FREQ | BAR | SOURCE ATTRIBUTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tendency | 42 | 0.0151 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| others | 39 | 0.0140 | onet dimensi 97% inference 3% | |
| equipment | 29 | 0.0104 | onet dimensi 79% dwas 14% | |
| materials | 18 | 0.0065 | onet dimensi 56% onet tasks 22% | |
| principles | 16 | 0.0058 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| surfaces | 14 | 0.0050 | onet tasks 36% inference 36% | |
| construction | 14 | 0.0050 | inference 57% onet dimensi 14% | |
| techniques | 13 | 0.0047 | onet dimensi 77% inference 23% | |
| control | 13 | 0.0047 | onet dimensi 92% inference 8% | |
| includes | 12 | 0.0043 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| objects | 12 | 0.0043 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| activities | 12 | 0.0043 | onet dimensi 75% dwas 17% | |
| decorative | 11 | 0.0040 | dwas 45% inference 36% | |
| body | 11 | 0.0040 | onet dimensi 91% wikipedia 9% | |
| ideas | 11 | 0.0040 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| problems | 10 | 0.0036 | onet dimensi 90% inference 10% | |
| structures | 10 | 0.0036 | onet dimensi 50% dwas 30% | |
| hand | 10 | 0.0036 | onet dimensi 70% inference 30% | |
| plaster | 9 | 0.0032 | onet tasks 56% inference 33% | |
| building | 9 | 0.0032 | inference 44% onet dimensi 33% | |
| needed | 9 | 0.0032 | onet dimensi 78% onet tasks 11% | |
| resources | 9 | 0.0032 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| quality | 9 | 0.0032 | onet dimensi 67% inference 33% | |
| quickly | 9 | 0.0032 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| orientation | 9 | 0.0032 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| stucco | 8 | 0.0029 | onet tasks 62% inference 38% | |
| monitoring | 8 | 0.0029 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| procedures | 8 | 0.0029 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| needs | 8 | 0.0029 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| rules | 8 | 0.0029 | onet dimensi 100% |
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 47-2161.00 · Plasterers and Stucco Masons 7 source blocks · click to expand
[Core] [70% incumbents] Apply coats of plaster or stucco to walls, ceilings, or partitions of buildings, using trowels, brushes, or spray guns. DWAs: Apply decorative or textured finishes or coverings. [Core] [70% incumbents] Clean and prepare surfaces for applications of plaster, cement, stucco, or similar materials, such as by drywall taping. DWAs: Clean surfaces in preparation for work activities. | Prepare surfaces for finishing. [Core] [69% incumbents] Cover surfaces such as windows, doors, or sidewalks to protect from splashing. DWAs: Protect structures or surfaces near work areas to avoid damage. [Core] [69% incumbents] Mix mortar and plaster to desired consistency or direct workers who perform mixing. DWAs: Mix substances or compounds needed for work activities. [Core] [69% incumbents] Create decorative textures in finish coat, using brushes or trowels, sand, pebbles, or stones. DWAs: Apply decorative or textured finishes or coverings. [Core] [69% incumbents] Apply insulation to building exteriors by installing prefabricated insulation systems over existing walls or by covering the outer wall with insulation board, reinforcing mesh, and a base coat. DWAs: Install insulation in equipment or structures. [Core] [68% incumbents] Clean job sites. DWAs: Clean equipment or facilities. [Core] [68% incumbents] Apply weatherproof, decorative coverings to exterior surfaces of buildings, such as by troweling or spraying on coats of stucco. DWAs: Apply decorative or textured finishes or coverings. [Core] [68% incumbents] Rough the undercoat surface with a scratcher so the finish coat will adhere. DWAs: Prepare surfaces for finishing. [Supplemental] [68% incumbents] Cure freshly plastered surfaces. DWAs: Apply decorative or textured finishes or coverings. [Supplemental] [68% incumbents] Install guide wires on exterior surfaces of buildings to indicate thickness of plaster or stucco and nail wire mesh, lath, or similar materials to the outside surface to hold stucco in place. DWAs: Mark reference points on construction materials. [Supplemental] [68% incumbents] Spray acoustic materials or texture finish over walls or ceilings. DWAs: Apply decorative or textured finishes or coverings. [Supplemental] [68% incumbents] Mold or install ornamental plaster pieces, panels, or trim. DWAs: Install trim or paneling. | Fabricate parts or components. [Core] [67% incumbents] Set up scaffolds. DWAs: Assemble temporary equipment or structures. [Core] [66% incumbents] Determine materials needed to complete the job and place orders accordingly. DWAs: Estimate materials requirements for projects. | Order construction or extraction materials or equipment.
--- SKILLS --- Active Listening (imp:3.00 lvl:2.25) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand Speaking (imp:2.88 lvl:2.12) — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Monitoring (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization Reading Comprehension (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. Critical Thinking (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ Active Learning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.12) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr Learning Strategies (imp:2.62 lvl:2.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo Writing (imp:2.12 lvl:2.25) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc Mathematics (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — Using mathematics to solve problems. Science (imp:1.12 lvl:0.25) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. --- KNOWLEDGE --- Building and Construction (imp:4.06 lvl:4.28) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r Administration and Management (imp:3.23 lvl:3.44) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, Design (imp:3.22 lvl:3.29) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of English Language (imp:3.07 lvl:2.52) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.05 lvl:3.26) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic Public Safety and Security (imp:2.96 lvl:3.11) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote Mathematics (imp:2.90 lvl:2.94) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl Mechanical (imp:2.83 lvl:2.60) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main Production and Processing (imp:2.53 lvl:2.18) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot Education and Training (imp:2.44 lvl:2.37) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching Transportation (imp:2.33 lvl:1.82) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea Sales and Marketing (imp:2.32 lvl:2.27) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.27 lvl:1.87) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra Economics and Accounting (imp:2.01 lvl:1.09) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar Engineering and Technology (imp:1.87 lvl:1.26) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th Psychology (imp:1.87 lvl:1.17) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, Law and Government (imp:1.84 lvl:1.63) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat Administrative (imp:1.77 lvl:1.40) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.74 lvl:1.21) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i Chemistry (imp:1.68 lvl:1.29) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.66 lvl:0.71) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human Physics (imp:1.59 lvl:1.03) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, Geography (imp:1.58) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.54) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r Foreign Language (imp:1.52 lvl:1.01) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu Biology (imp:1.46) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd Computers and Electronics (imp:1.45) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput Food Production (imp:1.42) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.42) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their Telecommunications (imp:1.41 lvl:0.61) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te Communications and Media (imp:1.33) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m Fine Arts (imp:1.32) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform History and Archeology (imp:1.21) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi --- ABILITIES --- Near Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:3.25) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold Manual Dexterity (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your Trunk Strength (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the Extent Flexibility (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or Static Strength (imp:3.25 lvl:3.62) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:3.25 lvl:2.88) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta Oral Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no Visualization (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when Dynamic Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv Stamina (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti Oral Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through Information Ordering (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according Finger Dexterity (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot Control Precision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi Gross Body Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh Visual Color Discrimination (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c Speech Clarity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.25) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Deductive Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that Category Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping Selective Attention (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac Far Vision (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to see details at a distance. Speech Recognition (imp:2.88 lvl:2.25) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Written Comprehension (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Originality (imp:2.75 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa Inductive Reasoning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion Reaction Time (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so Perceptual Speed (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among Rate Control (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an Written Expression (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs. Depth Perception (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you Auditory Attention (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob Speed of Closure (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea Time Sharing (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of Number Facility (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced Spatial Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher Response Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o Peripheral Vision (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar Glare Sensitivity (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting. Sound Localization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated. Explosive Strength (imp:1.88 lvl:1.25) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping Night Vision (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — The ability to see under low-light conditions. Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo --- WORK ACTIVITIES --- Getting Information (imp:4.24 lvl:3.73) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour Performing General Physical Activities (imp:4.01 lvl:5.06) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.88 lvl:5.29) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.72 lvl:3.09) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.72 lvl:3.95) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.64 lvl:4.63) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.57 lvl:3.53) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.53 lvl:3.14) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.51 lvl:3.52) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:3.43 lvl:3.14) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.42 lvl:3.84) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.37 lvl:4.34) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:3.33 lvl:2.96) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:3.32 lvl:4.06) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines Thinking Creatively (imp:3.31 lvl:3.69) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.28 lvl:4.48) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.20 lvl:3.63) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.18 lvl:3.55) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.14 lvl:3.33) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.08 lvl:3.45) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:3.06 lvl:3.16) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.03 lvl:3.41) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.00 lvl:2.92) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:3.00 lvl:3.02) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:2.97 lvl:2.95) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.93 lvl:3.34) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.93 lvl:3.22) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.89 lvl:2.94) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio Processing Information (imp:2.87 lvl:3.16) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.83 lvl:3.06) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.79 lvl:2.93) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.72 lvl:2.74) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. Documenting/Recording Information (imp:2.70 lvl:2.42) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.64 lvl:2.51) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.35 lvl:2.49) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.34 lvl:2.52) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.28 lvl:1.94) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.24 lvl:2.26) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files Working with Computers (imp:2.23 lvl:2.13) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.08) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.99) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, --- WORK STYLES --- Dependability (imp:2.11) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Attention to Detail (imp:1.86) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Cautiousness (imp:1.59) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Perseverance (imp:1.18) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Dependability (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Achievement Orientation (imp:0.99) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Stress Tolerance (imp:0.84) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Cooperation (imp:0.73) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Integrity (imp:0.70) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Self-Control (imp:0.68) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Self-Confidence (imp:0.67) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Initiative (imp:0.28) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability (imp:0.26) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Innovation (imp:0.19) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Optimism (imp:0.16) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Sincerity (imp:0.13) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Attention to Detail () — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Social Orientation (imp:-0.05) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Humility (imp:-0.08) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Empathy (imp:-0.12) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.15) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Intellectual Curiosity (imp:-0.17) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.48) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. --- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS --- Quality Control Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate Time Management (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Managing one's own time and the time of others. Coordination (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. Service Orientation (imp:2.88 lvl:2.25) — Actively looking for ways to help people. Operations Monitoring (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.75 lvl:2.12) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev Operation and Control (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems. Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best Instructing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — Teaching others how to do something. Persuasion (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. Negotiation (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences. Management of Material Resources (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi Equipment Selection (imp:2.12 lvl:1.62) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. Troubleshooting (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. Systems Analysis (imp:2.12 lvl:1.62) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, Systems Evaluation (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed Operations Analysis (imp:1.88 lvl:1.25) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:1.25) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the Technology Design (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. Installation (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Repairing (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools. Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
--- NATIONAL WAGES --- total_employment : 19,310 annual_median : $57,660 annual_pct10 : $39,560 annual_pct25 : $47,970 annual_pct75 : $71,310 annual_pct90 : $96,710 annual_mean : $62,050 hourly_median : $27.72 --- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION --- highest_state : New York ($120,180) lowest_state : New Mexico ($45,350) dispersion_ratio : 2.650x --- TOP STATES BY WAGE (28 total) --- Construction emp: 18,350 median: $ 57,540 Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 150 median: $ 78,200 Educational Services emp: 90 median: $ 64,120 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 60 median: $ 71,280 --- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (4 total) --- Construction emp: 18,350 median: $ 57,540 Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 150 median: $ 78,200 Educational Services emp: 90 median: $ 64,120 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 60 median: $ 71,280
exact_match_status : no_exact_match matched_title : N/A match_score : 0.0000 wikidata_qid : N/A word_count : 0 wikipedia_url : N/A license : CC BY-SA 4.0 fetched_at : 2026-06-02T22:42:48.811892Z --- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) --- Title: Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association (similarity: 0.4894) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operative_Plasterers'_and_Cement_Masons'_International_Association QID: Q7097821 Extract: The Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association of the United States and Canada (OPCMIA) is a trade union of plasterers and cement masons in the construction industry in the United States and Canada. Members of the union finish interior walls and ceilings of buildings and appl Title: Windsor Ruins (similarity: 0.2927) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windsor_Ruins QID: Q4111496 Extract: Windsor Ruins are in Claiborne County, Mississippi, United States, about 10 miles (16 km) southwest of Port Gibson near Alcorn State University. The ruins consist of 23 standing Corinthian columns of the largest antebellum Greek Revival mansion ever built in the state. The mansion stood from 1861 to Title: Heythrop Park (similarity: 0.1463) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heythrop_Park QID: Q5749809 Extract: Heythrop Park is a Grade II* listed early 18th-century country house 1 mile (1.6 km) southeast of Heythrop in Oxfordshire. It was designed by the architect Thomas Archer in the Baroque style for Charles Talbot, 1st Duke of Shrewsbury. A fire in 1831 destroyed the original interior. From 1922 until 1 Title: List of This Old House episodes (seasons 11–20) (similarity: 0.4000) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_This_Old_House_episodes_(seasons_11%E2%80%9320) QID: Q85778657 Extract: This Old House is an American home improvement media brand with television shows, a magazine and a website, ThisOldHouse.com. The brand is headquartered in Stamford, CT. The television series airs on the American television station Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and follows remodeling projects of Title: Richard Sharp Smith (similarity: 0.2553) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Sharp_Smith QID: Q7328981 Extract: Richard Sharp Smith was an English-born American architect, noted for his association with George W. Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate and Asheville, North Carolina. Smith worked for some of America's important architectural firms of the late 19th century—Richard Morris Hunt, Bradford Lee Gilbert, and Re
model_pass1 : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2 : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes : Strong O*NET data coverage with detailed task descriptions, clear wage data from BLS, and well-defined skill requirements. The occupation has distinct characteristics that differentiate it from related construction trades.
inferred_at : 2026-06-03T23:35:29.304115+00:00
tokens_input : 4,820
tokens_output : 4,348
cost_usd : $0.047987
wikipedia_used : False
wikipedia_title : None
wikipedia_note : No exact Wikipedia match found, though the Operative Plasterers' and Cement Masons' International Association provides relevant trade union context. This reflects the specialized nature of the occupation within broader construction trades.
--- PROSE FIELDS ---
ROLE SUMMARY:
Plasterers and Stucco Masons apply interior and exterior plaster, cement, stucco, and similar materials to building surfaces using hand tools and spray equipment. These skilled tradespeople create both functional protective coatings and decorative finishes on walls, ceilings, and exterior surfaces. The role requires strong manual dexterity, physical stamina, and knowledge of building construction techniques to achieve smooth, durable finishes.
DAY IN THE LIFE:
Workers begin by cleaning and preparing surfaces, including taping drywall and protecting nearby areas from splashing. They mix mortar and plaster to the proper consistency, then apply multiple coats using trowels, brushes, or spray guns. Between coats, they rough up surfaces with scratchers to ensure proper adhesion and may create decorative textures using specialized tools, sand, or stones. They install insulation systems on building exteriors and apply weatherproof coatings to protect structures. Work involves inspecting surfaces for quality and curing freshly plastered areas to achieve the desired finish.
WHO THRIVES:
This role suits individuals with strong realistic interests who enjoy working with their hands and creating tangible results. Success requires excellent arm-hand steadiness, manual dexterity, and trunk strength for extended periods of physical work. Workers need near vision abilities to detect imperfections and maintain attention to detail while ensuring consistent application. The job demands dependability and cautiousness, as mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to correct. Those who thrive appreciate working outdoors and indoors, solving problems related to surface preparation and application techniques.
CAREER ENTRY:
Most plasterers enter through on-the-job training or apprenticeships, with 68% having less than a high school diploma according to education distribution data. Many start as helpers to experienced plasterers, learning surface preparation, mixing techniques, and basic application skills. Apprenticeship programs typically last 2-4 years, combining classroom instruction in building construction, mathematics, and safety with hands-on training. Some workers pursue post-secondary certificates in construction trades to enhance their skills.
CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Experienced plasterers can advance to supervisory roles, overseeing crews and coordinating work activities as indicated by high coordination and management skills. Some specialize in ornamental or decorative plastering, commanding higher wages for artistic abilities. Others transition to related trades like cement masonry, tile setting, or drywall installation given the transferable skills in quality control and surface preparation. Entrepreneurial plasterers often establish their own contracting businesses, particularly in markets with strong residential construction activity.
MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The occupation employs 19,310 workers nationally with a median annual wage of $57,660 according to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, ranging from $39,560 to $96,710. Geographic wage variation is substantial, with New York offering the highest wages at $120,180 compared to New Mexico's $45,350, reflecting regional construction demand and cost of living differences. Employment concentrates heavily in construction (18,350 workers) with minimal government and educational sector positions. The relatively small workforce size suggests specialized demand tied to construction cycles and architectural trends favoring plaster and stucco finishes.
AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Manual dexterity requirements, arm-hand steadiness, and the need for artistic judgment in creating decorative textures provide moderate protection from automation. While spray application equipment continues to improve efficiency, the core tasks of surface preparation, quality assessment, and detail work remain largely manual processes requiring human skill and adaptability.
--- REASONED EDGES ---
[skill_overlap] Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers (47-2051.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles share high importance in quality control analysis (3.0), handling materials, and creating smooth finished surfaces.
data: Quality Control Analysis skill match
data: Similar manual dexterity requirements
data: Related building construction knowledge
[task_similarity] Painters, Construction and Maintenance (47-2141.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both apply coatings to surfaces using brushes, spray guns, and require surface preparation and protection of adjacent areas.
data: Apply coats using spray guns task
data: Surface preparation activities
data: Protection of surrounding areas
[career_pathway] Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers (47-2081.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Drywall installation often precedes plastering work, and both require building construction knowledge and manual dexterity.
data: Building and Construction knowledge (4.1)
data: Manual dexterity requirements
data: Sequential work relationship
[riasec_cluster] Tile and Stone Setters (47-2044.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both are realistic-oriented trades requiring similar manual skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of building construction techniques.
data: Realistic orientation (R:7.00)
data: Manual dexterity abilities
data: Building construction knowledge
[career_pathway] Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons (47-3014.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Direct entry-level pathway where helpers learn basic skills before advancing to full plasterer positions.
data: Job Zone progression from 1 to 2
data: Named helper category
data: Training pathway structure
[task_similarity] Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall (47-2131.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both roles involve applying insulation systems to building exteriors and require knowledge of building construction.
data: Install insulation systems task
data: Building and Construction knowledge
data: Exterior application work
--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
match_keywords : ['plaster', 'stucco', 'mason', 'plasterer', 'decorative plaster', 'ornamental plaster', 'cement application', 'surface finishing']
exclude_keywords : ['helper', 'assistant', 'drywall only', 'painting only', 'concrete pouring']
title_patterns : ['*Plasterer*', '*Stucco*Mason*', '*Plaster*Applicator*', '*Ornamental*Plasterer*', '*Decorative*Plasterer*']
common_variations: ['Plasterer', 'Stucco Mason', 'Plaster Applicator', 'Decorative Plasterer', 'Ornamental Plasterer', 'Plaster Mechanic', 'Stucco Worker', 'Surface Finisher']
total_terms : 40 top_words : ['tendency', 'others', 'equipment', 'materials', 'principles', 'surfaces', 'construction', 'techniques', 'control', 'includes', 'objects', 'activities', 'decorative', 'body', 'ideas', 'problems', 'structures', 'hand', 'plaster', 'building'] source_layers : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference TERM COUNT FREQ DOMINANT SOURCE SOURCE BREAKDOWN ────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── tendency 42 0.01511 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% others 39 0.01403 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:97% inference:3% equipment 29 0.01043 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:79% dwas:14% inference:7% materials 18 0.00648 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:56% onet_tasks:22% dwas:17% principles 16 0.00576 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% surfaces 14 0.00504 onet_tasks onet_tasks:36% inference:36% dwas:29% construction 14 0.00504 inference inference:57% onet_dimensions:14% dwas:14% techniques 13 0.00468 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:77% inference:23% control 13 0.00468 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:92% inference:8% includes 12 0.00432 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% objects 12 0.00432 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% activities 12 0.00432 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% dwas:17% inference:8% decorative 11 0.00396 dwas dwas:45% inference:36% onet_tasks:18% body 11 0.00396 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:91% wikipedia:9% ideas 11 0.00396 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% problems 10 0.00360 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:90% inference:10% structures 10 0.00360 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:50% dwas:30% wikipedia:10% hand 10 0.00360 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:70% inference:30% plaster 9 0.00324 onet_tasks onet_tasks:56% inference:33% wikipedia:11% building 9 0.00324 inference inference:44% onet_dimensions:33% onet_tasks:11% needed 9 0.00324 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% onet_tasks:11% dwas:11% resources 9 0.00324 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% quality 9 0.00324 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% inference:33% quickly 9 0.00324 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% orientation 9 0.00324 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% stucco 8 0.00288 onet_tasks onet_tasks:62% inference:38% monitoring 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% procedures 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% needs 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% rules 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% management 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:88% inference:12% human 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:88% inference:12% production 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% standards 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% physical 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% inference:25% events 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% arm 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% inference:25% performing 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% actions 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% identifying 8 0.00288 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100%