Plasterer Resume Example and Template
A plasterer resume highlights finishing craftsmanship, knowledge of different plaster and drywall compounds, and the ability to deliver smooth, professional surfaces quickly. Show your range from basic repairs to specialty finishes like knockdown or popcorn texture.
Contractors prioritize speed without compromising quality, experience on both residential and commercial jobs, and ability to work as part of a framing or concrete crew. Mention specific finish types and tools you master.
Also searched as
Master Plasterer, Journeyman Plasterer, Apprentice Plasterer
James O'Sullivan: Plasterer
Portland, Oregon, United States
Summary
Skilled plasterer with 9 years finishing drywall, plaster, and concrete surfaces for residential remodels and new construction. Specialized in texture application, repair work, and custom finishes. Completed 2,100+ projects with consistent A or B ratings from general contractors. Proficient in joint compound, base coat, and finish coat application.
Work Experience
Master Plasterer, Northwest Finishing Crew
Aug 2021 – Present. 35-person drywall and plaster finishing subcontractor
- Led 8-person finishing crew on 22 commercial projects, including two 120-unit multifamily apartment complexes
- Achieved average of 4,800 sq ft finished per week while maintaining client approval ratings above 95%
- Mentored 3 apprentices in taping, mudding, and texture techniques; all three earned journey status
- Pioneered eco-friendly low-VOC compound system, reducing material waste by 16%
Journeyman Plasterer, Urban Remodel Solutions
Feb 2017 – Jul 2021. 50-person residential remodeling company
- Finished interiors for 340 residential homes, averaging 2,500 sq ft per project with turnaround times under 5 days
- Specialized in texture finishes including knockdown, orange peel, and custom hand-troweled effects on 85 high-end projects
- Built long-term relationships with 12 general contractors who regularly requested my crew for precision work
Apprentice Plasterer, Metro Drywall Services
Apr 2015 – Jan 2017. Commercial drywall and finishing shop, 25 employees
- Completed 2,800 hours apprenticeship training in compound application, sanding, and surface prep
- Learned taping, mudding, and knife work on 180+ residential and commercial jobs
- Earned Oregon Apprenticeship Certificate in plastering in January 2017
Education
Oregon Apprenticeship and Training Council
Apprenticeship Certificate, Plastering and Drywall Finishing. Apr 2015 – Jan 2017
Skills
Drywall mudding and taping, Texture application (knockdown, orange peel, custom), Joint compound and plaster compounds, Surface preparation and sanding, Primer and paint application, Hand trowel and drywall finishing tools, Concrete finishing, Quality control and inspection, Crew coordination
Languages
English, Irish Gaelic
Certificates and Awards
- Oregon Plasterer Apprenticeship Certificate, Oregon Apprenticeship and Training Council, 2017
Why this look works
Plasterers create smooth, refined surfaces, so your resume should reflect that aesthetic. Use soft typography, generous whitespace, and a neutral color palette with subtle texture hints. Avoid busy designs; the work should look as clean and professional as a freshly finished wall.
Resume tips for this job
- List specific texture types and finishes you've mastered; knockdown, orange peel, and custom hand-troweled effects command higher rates.
- Include square footage completed per week; productivity metrics matter to contractors planning budgets and schedules.
- Mention your network of general contractors or repeat clients; referrals are gold in finishing work and show reliability.
- Highlight experience on both residential and commercial jobs; commercial work typically pays more and shows you handle larger crews and timelines.
Common questions
Should I list drywall hanging or just finishing?
Definitely include any drywall hanging experience, even if finishing is your specialty. Finishers who understand framing and hanging are more flexible and valuable on job sites. If you cross-train, you're worth more.
How much texture work should I showcase?
Texture is higher skill than basic mudding, so highlight it if you offer it. Custom textures and specialty finishes justify higher pay and more interesting projects. Even 20-30% of your portfolio in specialty finishes is worth mentioning.
Do I need formal certification to work as a plasterer?
Apprenticeship completion is the standard in most states. Some states don't regulate it strictly, but having a certificate signals you completed structured training. If you're self-taught, describe your on-the-job training and the contractors or supervisors who trained you.
Edit this resume in the builder
The person, employers and numbers in this example are fictional, written to show what a strong resume for this job looks like.