A Cement (Concrete) Finisher finishes exposed surfaces of poured concrete floors, sidewalks, curbs, and many other structures. They also smooth and finish freshly poured concrete; apply curing or surface treatments; and restore, repair, or replace hardened concrete structures.
Job Related Skills, Interests and Values
- Learning about and applying health and safety training to the job
- Finishing concrete by hand or machine; produce various finishes using different compounds and techniques, including colours and decorative finishes
- Cut, core, and scarify hardened concrete into pre-determined forms or shapes
- Operating hand/power tools to compact and level concrete and create the desired finish
- Installing fixtures including anchor bolts, steel plates, and door sills
- Repairing/replacing worn/damaged sections and applying curing and surface treatments
- Exposing and finishing aggregate in precast and architectural concrete
- Ability to follow instructions; willing to work as team on physically/mentally challenging projects
What Preparation and Training Do You Need?
- Grade 10 is the legal minimum, but grade 12 is usually required by employers/unions
- Voluntary trade; apprenticeship is not mandatory but is recommended
- Completion of 4,500-hour apprenticeship includes on-the-job and in-school training (two 8-week blocks of school)
- Exam to obtain Certificate of Qualification
What's Your Future as a Cement or Precast (Concrete) Finisher (244 G/L)?
- Weather-dependent
- Overtime required
- Fast-paced
- Heavy-lifting
- Working both indoors and outdoors
Wage Rate
Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $31.80-$40.41 per hour.
Self-Rating
Cement or Precast (Concrete) Finisher (244 G/L)
| Ask Yourself: | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have good hand-eye coordination? Do you have any artistic ability and enjoy working with your hands and mind? | ||
| Are you able to work indoors and outdoors? Are you comfortable working at all heights? | ||
| Are you able to read blueprints and measurements accurately? Have basic math skills. | ||
| Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines? | ||
| Are you able to lift more than 50lbs? Are you able to stand or sit for long periods of time? | ||
| Are you detail oriented? Do you have the ability to work closely with others? | ||
| Are you reliable, a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision? Can you start and finish work on time? |
If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Cement or Precast (Concrete) Finisher (244 G/L) may be for you!
You might want to look at these similar trades as well;
- Cement Mason
- Bricklayer
- Stone Cutter
- Marble Mason
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