Concrete Finisher Career Path in 2024

Concrete Finisher Career Overview

Job Description:

Concrete Finisher Job Description

As a concrete finisher, your role revolves around working with concrete to create and finish structures, which requires precision, physical stamina, and an eye for detail. Your responsibilities will encompass various tasks that involve laying, smoothing, and finishing concrete for a wide range of construction projects.

Below is a detailed job description of a concrete finisher:

Preparing the Worksite: Before any concrete is poured, you'll need to prepare the site. This includes setting forms to mold the concrete to the desired shape, ensuring they're properly aligned and secured.
Mixing Concrete: You'll mix sand, cement, and water to create concrete. Depending on the job's specifications, you might also add color or other additives to achieve the desired result.
Pouring Concrete: Once the concrete is mixed, you'll pour it into the forms you've prepared. This involves guiding the pour to avoid air pockets and ensure even distribution.
Leveling Concrete: After pouring, you'll use tools like screeds and trowels to spread the concrete evenly across the surface and level it.
Finishing Surfaces: Once the concrete is leveled, finishing touches are applied. You'll smooth out any imperfections, create texture or patterns if needed, and seal the surface to protect it from the elements.
Curing Concrete: Proper curing is crucial for strength and durability. You'll monitor environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature to ensure that the concrete cures correctly.
Using Power Tools and Equipment: Your job will often require the use of power tools like power trowels, saws, and edgers to finish the concrete effectively.
Repairing Surfaces: In addition to creating new structures, you may be responsible for repairing existing concrete surfaces. This can include filling cracks or chips in sidewalks or driveways.
Ensuring Safety: As with all construction jobs, safety is paramount. You'll need to adhere to all safety protocols, including wearing protective gear and securing the worksite.
Collaborating with Team Members: Concrete finishers often work as part of a team. You'll need to communicate effectively with coworkers to ensure that projects are completed efficiently and correctly.

For those considering a career as a concrete finisher, it's important to understand that this job can be physically demanding and often requires working outdoors in various weather conditions. Additionally, you may be called upon to work irregular hours to complete projects on time.

If you're looking for authoritative resources on safety protocols or training requirements for concrete finishers, consider visiting websites like OSHA or The American Concrete Institute (ACI) for further information. These organizations offer guidelines and certifications that are respected within the industry.

How To Become a Concrete Finisher

If you're considering a career as a concrete finisher, you should know that this job entails more than just pouring concrete. It's about precision, physical strength, and a keen understanding of construction processes. Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a concrete finisher:

Understand the Role

Before diving into the career, it's important to understand what a concrete finisher does. Daily tasks include:

Setting forms that hold concrete in place
Installing reinforcing rebar or mesh wire to strengthen the concrete
Spreading, leveling, and smoothing concrete
Monitoring the material's reaction to weather conditions
Applying sealants or waterproofing to protect concrete

Educational Requirements

While formal education isn't strictly necessary, it can give you an edge:

High School Diploma or GED: This is often the minimum education requirement.
Vocational Training: Some choose to attend trade or vocational schools that offer courses related to construction and concrete finishing.

Gain Experience

Hands-on experience is crucial:

Apprenticeship Programs: Many enter the field through apprenticeships, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Entry-Level Jobs: Starting as a laborer with a construction company can provide valuable experience.

Develop Skills

Certain skills will help you succeed:

Physical stamina and strength
Attention to detail
Ability to use various tools and machinery
Basic math skills for calculating areas and volumes

Get Certified

Although not always mandatory, certifications can validate your expertise:

The American Concrete Institute offers certification programs for concrete finishers.
Some states may have specific licensing requirements; check with your state's licensing board.

Keep Learning

Continuing education is key in this evolving industry:

Attend workshops and seminars.
Stay up-to-date with new techniques and materials.

Networking

Building relationships can lead to job opportunities:

Join professional organizations such as the American Society of Concrete Contractors.
Attend industry events and trade shows.

Following these steps will set you on the path to becoming a skilled concrete finisher. Remember, like any craft, it requires patience, practice, and dedication to perfect your skills.

Typical Tasks for Concrete Finishers

Check the forms that hold the concrete to see that they are properly constructed.
Set the forms that hold concrete to the desired pitch and depth, and align them.
Spread, level, and smooth concrete, using rake, shovel, hand or power trowel, hand or power screed, and float.

Technologies and Skills Used by Concrete Finishers

Accounting software

Sirus GT Construction Accounting

Analytical or scientific software

ADAPT-Modeler
Shilstone seeMIX

Project management software

National Concrete & Masonry Estimator
Tradesman's Software Master Estimator

Basic Skills

Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Talking to others

Problem Solving

Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Concrete Finisher Program FAQs

When considering a career as a concrete finisher, you likely have several questions about the training and educational programs available. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help guide you through the process of becoming a skilled concrete finisher.

What kind of education do I need to become a concrete finisher?

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required to enter the field.
Some choose to attend technical schools or community colleges that offer programs in masonry or concrete finishing.
Apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, are also very common in this trade.

How long does it take to complete a concrete finisher program?

Apprenticeship programs usually last between 2 to 4 years, depending on the specific requirements set by the employer or union.
Certificate programs at technical schools can vary in length but often can be completed in less than a year.

Are there any certifications required to become a concrete finisher?

While not always mandatory, certifications can demonstrate a higher level of skill and knowledge to potential employers.
The American Concrete Institute (ACI) offers certification programs for concrete finishers that are widely recognized in the industry.

Do I need any special skills to enroll in a concrete finisher program?

Basic math skills are essential for measurements and calculations.
Physical fitness is important as the job can be physically demanding.
An understanding of basic tools and construction practices is helpful but not required, as these skills are taught during training.

Can I complete a concrete finisher program online?

While some theoretical components may be available online, concrete finishing is a hands-on trade that requires practical experience.
Most programs will require in-person attendance for hands-on training and apprenticeships.

What can I expect to learn in a concrete finisher program?

How to read blueprints and understand job specifications.
Techniques for mixing, pouring, and spreading concrete.
Methods for monitoring the effects of the weather on the curing process.
Skills in creating finishes such as smooth, broom, stamped, or colored surfaces.
Safety protocols to prevent job-site accidents.

Is work experience required before enrolling in a program?

No prior work experience is necessary, although any construction experience can be beneficial.
Apprenticeship programs will provide the necessary work experience alongside classroom learning.

Where can I find apprenticeship opportunities?

Local trade unions often sponsor apprenticeship programs.
The U.S. Department of Labor's ApprenticeshipUSA program can help locate available apprenticeships in your area.
Some employers also offer their own apprenticeship programs for new hires.

What are the costs associated with concrete finisher training programs?

Costs can vary widely depending on the type of program and location.
Apprenticeships may offer paid training, reducing the financial burden on the trainee.
Financial aid and scholarships might be available through technical schools or community colleges.

Remember, choosing the right program will depend on your current education level, work experience, and career goals. Research thoroughly to find a program that fits your needs and sets you on the path to becoming a successful concrete finisher.