How To Become a Concrete Finisher

Are you wondering how to become a concrete finisher? 

Concrete finishers spread and level freshly poured concrete by using a variety of specialty tools. They create smooth finishes for floors, walls, roads, pavements and other structures with concrete.  

So how can you get started on the path to becoming a concrete finisher? Check out these steps for insight into the journey. 

RESEARCH CAREERS IN CONCRETE FINISHING 

The first step to finding your dream job is to do research. You might be interested in working with concrete and other construction materials, but it’s important to learn more about this career and make sure it’s a good fit for you. 

Some things to take into consideration include average wages and benefits, job demand, required skills, education requirements and work environment. 

Concrete finishers on average make $58,046 per year. This equates to $27.91/hour. These numbers do not include overtime, per diem or other incentives that can increase earnings and benefits.  

Here are some ways to research careers in concrete finishing: 

• Find online career resource pages that provide summaries and descriptions of different aspects of concrete work. 
• Look for videos, articles, and online posts that feature real concrete finishers sharing their experience or provide an inside look at the profession. 
• Take online personality quizzes to help match you with the right career. 

GET EDUCATED 

If you’re ready and excited to start the next part of your journey, it’s time to get some training! 

Working as a concrete finisher does not require a bachelor’s degree from a university, but there is still a lot of education involved to ensure craft professionals can do work correctly and safely. Luckily, there are a lot of different ways to get training, including: 

• Industry Training Programs and Apprenticeships: There are many types of industry-based training programs, such as apprenticeships. These are often hosted by construction companies themselves or in partnership with an association. In these programs, trainees and apprentices split time between the classroom and the field, learning new skills and then actually using them on a project. 
• Career and Technical Education (CTE): If you’re still in high school, there may be construction programs available to you within your school. The courses start by teaching introductory skills, including basic safety and how to use different types of tools. These courses can set the groundwork for more advanced, concrete-specific training down the line. Ask your guidance counselor about the CTE options offered at your school and how to get involved. 
• Community College: If you want a taste of the college experience without paying the full price, pursuing an associate degree at a community college is a great option. Community colleges often offer many programs in construction-related fields that can prepare you for a successful career. 

Look for concrete finishing training options near you and get signed up today!  

GET CREDENTIALS 

As you go through your training, you will have the opportunity to earn different credentials and certifications. 

These credentials are a representation of the skills and knowledge you have acquired. Much like a four-year degree, employers can look at your credentials and how you earned them and understand what you know. 

Having the right credentials can make you a more attractive employee and can even help you make more money. 

BECOME A PRO 

After completing your training, you can become a professional concrete finisher! 

Becoming a full professional isn’t the end of the line, though. It’s important to keep working hard and learning new things for your career. As you prove yourself, you may have the chance to advance to higher positions on your team, or even start your own company. 

Looking for more help on how to plan your future in concrete finishing? Click here for our guide to career planning.