Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons
Helpers assist painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons on job sites. They prepare materials, hold tools, apply primer or protective coatings, and clean equipment and work areas. These helpers work indoors and outdoors on residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves mixing paint or joint compound, setting up scaffolding and drop cloths, and handing tools to experienced tradespeople. Helpers sand surfaces, prime walls, carry materials between work areas, and dispose of waste. Work may include protecting fixtures with tape or plastic and washing brushes and rollers at day's end. Projects span multiple days or weeks depending on job size.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCS. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this role if you prefer practical, hands-on work and follow established procedures and safety rules carefully. You work well taking direction and appreciate seeing tangible results from your effort on buildings and structures.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold no formal education requirement.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $53,340 | $53,340 | $57,590 | 40 |
| New York | $49,570 | $52,000 | $52,000 | — |
| Hawaii | $37,250 | $51,540 | $52,760 | 130 |
| California | $38,500 | $46,220 | $51,940 | 1,990 |
| Montana | $44,560 | $44,720 | $46,370 | 50 |
| Utah | $37,470 | $44,500 | $45,510 | — |
| Virginia | $36,830 | $43,160 | $46,320 | — |
| Connecticut | $42,470 | $43,070 | $44,830 | — |
| Colorado | $33,280 | $42,470 | $44,740 | — |
| Oregon | $37,990 | $40,180 | $43,280 | 240 |
| Washington | $37,340 | $39,360 | $52,060 | 160 |
| Maryland | $33,120 | $39,080 | $40,760 | 90 |
All 25 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against helpers--painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-3014.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.