What Does a Concrete Finisher Do?
A Concrete Finisher, also known as a Cement Mason, is an essential role in the Structural Trades sector of the Construction industry. As a Concrete Finisher, your main job is to pour, smooth, and finish surfaces such as walkways, walls, and floors using a variety of hand and power tools. This might involve spreading concrete, molding expansion joints, and shaping the concrete to a specified design.
You'll be working outdoors most of the time in a very physical environment. You should expect to bend, kneel, and work in a variety of weather conditions. Sometimes, you might have to perform your duties in a noisy area where communication will require signaling or shouting. To thrive in this job, you need to be strong, tough, and up for the challenge!
Your responsibilities aren't just physical, though. As a Concrete Finisher, you need to follow blueprints or diagrams, understand building codes, and maintain a safe work site. You'll have to troubleshoot problems and make quick decisions to ensure the construction process goes smoothly. If you enjoy hands-on work and have a knack for precision, this could be a satisfying career for you!
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Concrete Mixing
- Surface Preparation
- Finishing Techniques
- Concrete Curing
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Protocols
Soft Skills
- Precision
- Physical Stamina
- Cooperation
- Problem Solving
- Communication skills
Technical Skills
- Concrete Mixing
- Surface Preparation
- Finishing Techniques
- Concrete Curing
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Protocols
Soft Skills
- Precision
- Physical Stamina
- Cooperation
- Problem Solving
- Communication skills
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Complete high school education, focusing on courses such as algebra, geometry, and shop can be particularly useful. If not possible, complete a GED (General Educational Development) Test
- Physical Examination: Given the physically demanding nature of the work, prospective concrete finishers often have to undergo a thorough physical examination
- Concrete Finisher Pre-Apprenticeship Program: Join a pre-apprenticeship program that provides necessary basic skills in Concrete Finishing, safety practices, blueprint reading, and more.
- Apprenticeship: Complete an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job practical training and classroom instruction. Such program lasts for up to 3 years and culminates in the apprentice becoming a journeyman.
- Certification: Certifications are not always required but are highly recommended and offered by organizations such as the American Concrete Institute (ACI). The certification can increase job prospects and validates the individual's skill set.
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Complete high school education, focusing on courses such as algebra, geometry, and shop can be particularly useful. If not possible, complete a GED (General Educational Development) Test
- Physical Examination: Given the physically demanding nature of the work, prospective concrete finishers often have to undergo a thorough physical examination
- Concrete Finisher Pre-Apprenticeship Program: Join a pre-apprenticeship program that provides necessary basic skills in Concrete Finishing, safety practices, blueprint reading, and more.
- Apprenticeship: Complete an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job practical training and classroom instruction. Such program lasts for up to 3 years and culminates in the apprentice becoming a journeyman.
- Certification: Certifications are not always required but are highly recommended and offered by organizations such as the American Concrete Institute (ACI). The certification can increase job prospects and validates the individual's skill set.
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in some states