How to Become a Stucco Applicator

Quick Facts

  • Average Salary: $42,350/year
  • Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Required Experience: Entry-level through apprenticeship
  • Licensing: Required in most states
  • Job Outlook: 4% growth (2020-2030)

What Does a Stucco Applicator Do?

A Stucco Applicator is a skilled craftsman who applies stucco to walls and ceilings. This involves mixing sand, cement, and water to create a rough or smooth finish on a building’s exterior. It's a hands-on job that makes a building look its best. If you're good at paying attention to detail and have a knack for working with your hands, this could be a great career choice for you.

Typically, stucco applicators work outdoors, although it can sometimes be an indoor job, too. You will need to be comfortable working at heights, as the job can involve being on scaffolding. The environment can be dusty and busy, but it's part of the job that many people enjoy because every day brings a different challenge.

Your day-to-day duties as a stucco applicator may include preparing surfaces for stucco application, mixing and applying multiple coats of stucco, and using power equipment to smear, spread, or spray stucco onto surfaces. You might also be responsible for adding weather-resistant finishes or decorative textures to the final layer. This is a job that requires patience and precision but offers great satisfaction when you see the final result.

Skills Required

Technical Skills

  • Stucco Application Techniques
  • Blueprint Reading
  • Use of Finishing Tools
  • Surface Preparation
  • Mold and Trim Work
  • Health and Safety Procedures

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Physical Stamina
  • Time Management

Education and Training Requirements

Required Education

Licensing and Certification

State Requirements

Required in most states

Salary and Job Outlook

How to Get Started