Career

Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming an Ornamental Plaster Installer, including salary, schools, and programs.

Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary

Annual Median: $52,640
Hourly Median: $25.31

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Annual and Hourly Ornamental Plaster Installer U.S. Salary Table:

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Wage
10th$36,880$17.73
25th$44,810$21.54
Median$52,640$25.31
75th$68,650$33.01
90th$92,780$44.61

Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary Overview (2024)

As an Ornamental Plaster Installer, you engage in the craftsmanship of creating and installing decorative plasterwork in various settings. Your role often involves working on historical restorations, commercial buildings, and residential properties, adding aesthetic value and architectural significance to structures.

Understanding the salary associated with your profession is essential for several reasons:

  • It helps you gauge your earning potential within the industry.
  • It provides insight into how your compensation may differ based on experience, location, and specific employer.
  • It aids in making informed decisions regarding career advancement and specialization within ornamental plaster work.

Career.Guide offers the latest salary information for Ornamental Plaster Installers sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This data allows you to stay current with industry trends and salaries, ensuring you are well-informed in your career journey.

Best Schools to become a Ornamental Plaster Installer in U.S. 2024

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,815
Out-of-State Tuition:$36,239
Admission Rate:63%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:74,014

University of Houston

Houston, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,685
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,877
Admission Rate:66%
Graduation Rate:63%
Total Enrollment:46,700

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Fort Collins, CO

In-State Tuition:$9,903
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,861
Admission Rate:91%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:33,403

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,477
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,694
Admission Rate:23%
Graduation Rate:90%
Total Enrollment:55,211

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,606
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,030
Admission Rate:88%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:38,171

Arizona State University Campus Immersion

Tempe, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$29,952
Admission Rate:90%
Graduation Rate:67%
Total Enrollment:80,065

How Experience Affects Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary (2024)

As an Ornamental Plaster Installer, your level of experience plays a significant role in determining your earning potential. Here's how salaries typically vary across different experience levels:

  • Entry-Level

    • Individuals starting in the ornamental plaster industry usually command a lower salary. Your earnings at this stage are often influenced by your basic skills and foundational knowledge, which you develop through on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs.
    • Responsibilities may include assisting more experienced installers and learning the techniques necessary for installing and repairing ornamental plaster.
  • Mid-Level

    • With several years of experience, you can expect a noticeable increase in your salary. At this stage, your expertise in the craft allows you to handle more complex projects with greater independence.
    • Your ability to interpret designs, execute precise installations, and manage smaller projects contributes to higher earning potential. Clients are likely to value your experience and a proven track record, which can lead to more lucrative job opportunities.
  • Senior-Level

    • As a seasoned professional, your salary can reach its peak. Senior Ornamental Plaster Installers often take on leadership roles, overseeing projects and mentoring junior installers.
    • Your extensive knowledge of the craft, project management skills, and ability to communicate effectively with clients and contractors significantly enhance your value. This level of expertise can open doors to specialized roles or opportunities in higher-end markets, where earnings are often more substantial.

Establishing a career in ornamental plaster installation means that gaining experience can substantially uplift your salary trajectory. Each level not only builds on previous skills but also enhances your professional reputation within the industry.

Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary By Industry (2024)

As an Ornamental Plaster Installer, your earnings can vary significantly based on the industry in which you work. The demand for your skills can differ across sectors, leading to variations in salary. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about your career path. Consider the following major industries:

  • Construction

    • In the construction industry, ornamental plastering is often part of larger projects, including residential and commercial building. Salary variations are heavily influenced by the size and scope of the projects. High-budget developments may afford higher salaries due to the complexity and customization required.
  • Restoration and Preservation

    • Installers working in historical restoration or preservation often face unique challenges. Work in this sector may involve intricate designs and techniques that require specialized skills, which can lead to higher compensation. The work is typically project-based, and seasoned professionals can command higher wages due to their expertise in preserving historical accuracy.
  • Interior Design and Architectural Firms

    • If you are employed by interior design or architectural firms, your salary can reflect the premium clients place on high-quality craftsmanship. Collaborating closely with designers can lead to prestigious projects where quality and precision are paramount, potentially leading to elevated pay rates compared to more standard construction roles.
  • Entertainment Industry

    • Within the entertainment sector, ornamental plastering is often crucial for creating sets, theaters, and themed environments. Salaries can vary, with high-profile projects in film, television, or theme parks offering competitive compensation. However, these roles may also involve irregular hours and project-based work, impacting overall earnings.
  • Art and Decorative Arts

    • Working in the arts can offer varying pay, particularly if you are involved in custom projects or fine art installations. The specialized nature of this work often allows for higher fees, especially when collaborating with other artists or institutions.
  • Manufacturing and Wholesale

    • In manufacturing contexts where ornamental plaster products are created or sold, the role may differ from traditional installation. Job functions may include production, design, or sales, leading to a different pay structure based on the volume of work and type of employer.
  • Education and Training

    • If you focus on training or education in ornamental plaster techniques, compensation can vary based on the institution and levels of expertise required. Teaching positions at vocational schools or community colleges may have set salaries that differ from industry roles.

By considering the primary industries where Ornamental Plaster Installers are employed, you can gain insights into how sector-specific demands influence salary potential. Assessing your career options within these industries can aid in navigating your professional journey effectively.

Factors That Affect Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary (2024)

  • Education: While formal education is not always a requirement for Ornamental Plaster Installers, having a high school diploma or equivalent can be advantageous. Advanced training in construction, fine arts, or architecture may provide you with valuable skills that can enhance your earning potential.

  • Certifications: Obtaining certifications related to plasterwork or decorative arts can set you apart from other candidates. Specialized certifications validate your skills and knowledge, signaling to employers your commitment to the craft and potentially leading to higher salary offers.

  • Specialized Skills: Your proficiency in specific techniques, such as molding, casting, and finishing, plays a significant role in determining your salary. Being adept in contemporary styles or historic restoration can also influence your earnings, as clients often seek experts in certain areas.

  • Experience: The number of years you have worked in the field greatly impacts your salary. As you gain experience, you will likely be entrusted with more complex projects, which can enhance your ability to negotiate higher pay.

  • Company Size: Working for larger companies or specialized firms may offer higher salaries and benefits compared to smaller businesses. Larger firms often have more resources and can afford to pay for skilled labor, while smaller operations may have more variable compensation based on project demand.

  • Location: The geographic area in which you work can significantly affect your salary. Urban areas with a higher cost of living or regions experiencing a construction boom often pay higher wages to attract skilled workers.

  • Industry Demand: The current market demand for ornamental plaster services can influence your earnings. During periods of economic growth or increased construction activity, demand for specialized skills may drive up salaries.

  • Union Affiliation: If you are a member of a labor union, the collective bargaining agreements may establish minimum salary levels and provide additional benefits that can impact your overall compensation.

Each of these factors contributes to the overall compensation package available to you as an Ornamental Plaster Installer, reflecting your skills, experience, and the market landscape in which you operate.

Ornamental Plaster Installer Salary Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • What factors influence the salary of an Ornamental Plaster Installer?
    Several factors contribute to your salary as an Ornamental Plaster Installer, including your level of experience, geographical location, type of employer (contractor vs. self-employed), and specific skills or certifications you may possess.

  • Is there a difference in salary between self-employed and employed Ornamental Plaster Installers?
    Yes, self-employed installers may have more variable income based on the number of contracts they secure and the market demand in their area, while employed installers often receive a steady paycheck with additional benefits.

  • How can I increase my earning potential in this career?
    You can increase your earning potential by gaining more experience, obtaining specialized certifications, enhancing your skills with advanced techniques, or taking on more complex projects that require a higher level of artistry and craftsmanship.

  • Do Ornamental Plaster Installers receive benefits?
    Many employed Ornamental Plaster Installers receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which can supplement their overall compensation.

  • How does location affect the salary of an Ornamental Plaster Installer?
    Salary can vary significantly based on location. Urban areas with a higher cost of living or areas with a greater demand for ornamental plaster services may offer higher salaries compared to rural areas.

  • What is the job outlook for Ornamental Plaster Installers?
    The job outlook can be influenced by factors like the construction industry's health and demand for ornamental plaster work in both residential and commercial projects. Skilled tradespeople are often in demand.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement within this career?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. Experienced installers may move into supervisory roles, start their own businesses, or specialize in high-end decorative plaster work, which can command higher rates.

  • What skills are important for Ornamental Plaster Installers?
    Key skills include attention to detail, manual dexterity, creativity, understanding of design principles, and proficiency in various plaster techniques. Strong communication skills are also beneficial for collaborating with clients and other construction professionals.

  • Is formal education required to become an Ornamental Plaster Installer?
    Formal education is not strictly required; however, many installers benefit from vocational training or apprenticeships to gain hands-on experience and learn about plastering techniques.