Plastering, Pre-Apprentice

Plastering, Pre-Apprentice

Potential earnings range:
$35,713-$72,363*
Per year after graduation

Do you enjoy building and fixing things? Thrive in an active, hands-on environment? Are you attentive, dependable and good at working with others? 

Then you may be a good fit for Job Corps’ Plastering, Pre-Apprentice training program. Pre-apprenticeships are focused on preparing students for a successful experience in a Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). That means your hands-on training will be based on industry standards in order to prepare you for high-skill, quality employment. 

On the job, you will ...

  • Use brushes, trowels and other tools, equipment and machines to measure, mix and apply drywall and plaster 
  • Protect nearby surfaces from splatters 
  • Work on both interior and exterior surfaces or on ornamental plaster 

Some of the career options you will have ...

Most Plastering, Pre-Apprentice Job Corps grads go to work for construction companies or plastering unions. Plasterers spend most of the day on their feet in all kinds of environments, and projects can be inside, outside or elevated on scaffolding. Many plasterers work full time, but also may be hired on a contract basis. 

The credentials you will earn ...

In the Plastering, Pre-Apprentice program, you can earn industry-recognized credentials from the National Plastering Industries Joint Apprenticeship Trust Fund and certifications in construction health and safety and green construction awareness from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).  

Students should also earn a state-issued learner’s permit and driver’s license upon completion of the program. 

What you’ll need to start training ...

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent (can be earned at all Job Corps centers) 
  • Completion of all introductory and career preparation courses 
  • Passing scores on all written and performance tests 
  • Meet academic (math and reading) requirements
* Salary information comes from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Program and is provided for planning purposes only. Actual salary will depend on student skill level, credentials earned, experience level and location.