What is the salary of a Helpers--Painter, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons?

The typical salary range is $26,698 - $53,396 per year.

ConstructionStable

Helpers--Painter, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons

Operational-level

Also known as: Billboard Poster Helper, Bridge Painter Helper, Dry Plasterer Helper, Exterior Work Helper

ConstructionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

Help painters, paperhangers, plasterers, or stucco masons by performing duties requiring less skill. Duties include using, supplying, or holding materials or tools, and cleaning work area and equipment.

Painting & DecoratingPlasteringStucco ApplicationConstruction FinishingConstructionSkilled TradesVocational TrainingBuildingSkilled Trade

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Hot technologies

Microsoft Excel Microsoft Office software

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+1.5%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

700

per year (US)

Jobs today

7,600

in 2025 → 7,700 (2035)

Typical entry education

No formal educational credential

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication

Low

Working in a team

High

Contact with others

High

Freedom to make decisions

Moderate

Time pressure

Moderate

Time spent sitting

Low

Working outdoors

High

Indoor, climate-controlled

Low

Dealing with customers

Moderate

Level of competition

Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This field maintains steady employment levels with consistent demand. Job opportunities remain available with moderate competition.

Career ladder

Often before this role

General Laborer
Construction Assistant
Apprentice (various trades)

Helpers--Painter, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons

Where it can lead

Painter
Paperhanger
Plasterer

Impact of AI on this Job

AI is unlikely to fully automate the direct physical tasks of helpers in these construction trades in the next 5-10 years. However, AI-powered tools could assist with material estimation, scheduling, and optimizing workflows, making these roles more efficient. For example, robots might handle repetitive heavy lifting or pre-mix materials.

Salary

$40,470

Median annual wage, BLS 2025

Required Education

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum educational requirement for this position