Smooth and finish surfaces of poured concrete, such as floors, walks, sidewalks, roads, or curbs using a variety of hand and power tools. Align forms for sidewalks, curbs, or gutters; patch voids; and use saws to cut expansion joints.
SOC: 47-2051.00
Common Job Titles
Cement Finisher
Cement Mason
Concrete Finisher
Finisher
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate concrete surfaces for compliance with quality standards and specifications by inspecting finished work for smoothness, level, and durability.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform concrete surface finishing operations using power trowels, floats, and edgers on floors, sidewalks, and roadways following established quality standards.
Developing
Hands-onOperate concrete saws and cutting equipment to cut expansion joints and control joints with precision.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate concrete screeds and straightedges to level and smooth freshly poured concrete surfaces before initial set.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze concrete quality and consistency by monitoring processes, materials, and environmental conditions on construction sites.
Developing
Hands-onAssemble concrete forms for sidewalks, curbs, and gutters ensuring proper alignment and grade using levels and measuring tools.
Developing
KnowledgeApply building and construction knowledge to determine appropriate finishing techniques based on project specifications and weather conditions.
Developing
Hands-onExecute concrete patching and repair procedures to fill voids and correct surface defects using trowels and specialized materials.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate material quantities and project timelines using mathematical calculations and measuring techniques for concrete placement.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in coordinated work activities with team members and supervisors to ensure efficient concrete placement and finishing operations.
Developing
Hands-onOperate concrete vibrators and tampers to consolidate concrete and remove air pockets during placement.
Developing
MindsetRespect public safety and security protocols when working on roads, sidewalks, and public infrastructure projects.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
205,230
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $38,290. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,020. 50th percentile: U.S. $54,660. 75th percentile: U.S. $65,840. 90th percentile: U.S. $87,620. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$38,290
10% of workers earn the following or more
$87,620
Workers on average earn
$59,360
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language3.7/5
Building and Construction3.5/5
Public Safety and Security3.1/5
Mathematics3.1/5
Mechanical2.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
