Helpers: Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons – A Guide to a Skilled Labor Occupation

Skilled labor jobs form an integral part of the construction industry. The job of helpers in the industry makes sure that the final touches on a building are perfect. Four particular trades that are commonly grouped together as skilled helpers include painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons. These trades assist the skilled craftsmen by preparing surfaces, mixing materials, and carrying out other tasks according to the trades’ specialties. Here is an in-depth guide to the occupation of Helpers in skilled labor trade.

What does it mean to be a Helper in the Painting, Paperhanging, Plastering, and Stucco trade?

As stated earlier, helpers in skilled labor tend to be the people who support the skilled craftsmen. In the painting, paperhanging, plastering, and stucco trade, helpers assist painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons in carrying out the tasks that create a beautiful structure. The jobs they do include preparing surfaces, mixing materials, and carrying out other tasks according to their trade’s specialties. They work with plaster, wood, or metal lath, and even sheet metal, using hand and power tools to smooth out rough spots and apply a smooth finish. They use tools such as trowels, hammers, chisels, power saws, pneumatic nail guns, sanders, and brushes, among others.

Some Examples of Jobs performed by Helpers in Painting, Paperhanging, Plastering, and Stucco Trade

Painting: Paint helpers work with painters to prepare surfaces for painting. They clean and sandblast walls, apply masking tape, and prepare paints for the job. They also clean equipment and help with mixing and matching colors.

Paperhanging: Paperhanging helpers prepare and apply wallpaper to surfaces. They clean, patch, and prime walls before hanging wallpaper. They also help paperhangers to cut, match, and safely install different types of papers.

Plastering: Plastering helpers assist plasterers in preparing the surfaces for plaster applications. They mix and prepare the plaster using various tools and techniques. They also apply the plaster to various surfaces of the building.

Stucco masons: Stucco masonic helpers work with stucco masons in preparing surfaces and installing stucco finishes. They mix and apply stucco finishes, including colored, smooth, or textured finishes.

Education or Training to become a helper

Typically, there is no formal education required to become a helper in these trades. On-the-job training is the primary way to learn the skills needed. However, many vocational schools offer courses that can prepare individuals for these positions. Additionally, since many of these jobs involve physical labor, individuals interested in these trades typically benefit from being in good physical condition.

Progression and Getting into the Field

Progression in all of these trades depends on the individual’s initiative and their ability to learn the craft quickly. Many people start in one of these trades as a helper and eventually work their way up to a skilled craftsman or even start their businesses.

The best way to get into the field is to start by looking for apprenticeships with local unions or contractors. An apprenticeship offers on-the-job training, the opportunity to learn from skilled craftsmen, and the potential for career advancement.

As with any job, the more experience and knowledge an individual has, the more likely they are to get hired and make more significant strides in their career. Helpers in these trades can increase their knowledge of construction, building codes, safety procedures, and more by attending workshops provided by local unions or industry associations.

Final Words

Helpers in painting, plastering, paperhanging, and stucco masonry trades play a crucial role in ensuring that a structure looks good. They work long hours and are often involved in physically demanding labor. However, there is ample opportunity to grow in these trades, especially as the construction industry continues to grow. If you are interested in a career in painting, paperhanging, plastering, and stucco trade, start by finding a reputable vocational school, union, or contractor to begin your apprenticeship. Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons are vital members of construction and building teams. They assist with various tasks related to painting, wallpapering, plastering, and stucco application. This occupation is considered an entry-level position in the construction industry.

According to salary data for US Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons, the national average is $37,273.60 for non-union workers at all levels. The average salary increases for full-time workers to $38,792.00. Those who are paid time-based receive an average of $38,022.40, which is slightly lower than full-time wages.

Union membership can significantly impact the salary of Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons. Union workers generally receive higher wages and better benefits than non-union workers. Union membership can also provide additional job security, training, and opportunities for advancement.

Here are two geographies where Helper–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons are best paid and least paid on average:

Best Paid:
– San Francisco, California: $48,831
– New York City, New York: $46,419

Least Paid:
– Kansas City, Missouri: $31,304
– Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: $30,068

Data Table for Salary Data:

| Occupation | Location | Union Status | Job Level | Average Salary | Median Salary |
|————|———-|————-|———–|—————-|—————|
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | US National Average | Nonunion | All levels | $37,273.60 | $33,072.00 |
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | US National Average | N/A | Full-time | $38,792.00 | $34,216.00 |
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | US National Average | N/A | Time-based pay | $38,022.40 | $33,488.00 |
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | San Francisco, California | Union | All levels | $48,831 | N/A |
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | New York City, New York | Union | All levels | $46,419 | N/A |
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | Kansas City, Missouri | N/A | All levels | $31,304 | N/A |
| Helpers–painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma | N/A | All levels | $30,068 | N/A |