Scrape and sand wooden floors to smooth surfaces using floor scraper and floor sanding machine, and apply coats of finish.
SOC: 47-2043.00
Common Job Titles
Floor Finisher
Floor Mechanic
Floor Sander
Hardwood Floor Sander
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeApply knowledge of building and construction materials and techniques when selecting appropriate sanding methods and finishing products for different wood types.
Proficient
MindsetBalance safety requirements with production demands and customer service expectations when working in occupied residential or commercial spaces.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate floor sanding machines, drum sanders, and edge sanders to smooth wooden floor surfaces following established safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onPerform floor scraping and sanding techniques using manual and mechanized tools to prepare surfaces for finishing.
Developing
Hands-onExecute finish application procedures with brushes, rollers, and edging tools to apply coats of finish evenly across wooden floor surfaces.
Developing
KnowledgeInspect floor surfaces, equipment, and completed work to identify imperfections and ensure quality standards are met.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate material quantities, project timelines, and equipment requirements for residential and commercial floor finishing projects.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate floor buffers, floor strippers, and scrubbing machines to prepare surfaces and apply maintenance finishes under time constraints.
Developing
MindsetEngage with clients to understand expectations and provide service updates while maintaining professional communication throughout project completion.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repairs on sanding and finishing equipment to ensure operational efficiency and minimize project delays.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate proper tool usage, safety procedures, and finishing techniques when training apprentices or new team members in floor sanding and finishing operations.
Developing
KnowledgeCoordinate work schedules, material delivery, and crew activities to organize multiple flooring projects efficiently and meet customer deadlines.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Floor Sanders and Finishers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
4,140
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,790. 25th percentile: U.S. $41,320. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,150. 75th percentile: U.S. $58,230. 90th percentile: U.S. $66,510. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,790
10% of workers earn the following or more
$66,510
Workers on average earn
$50,880
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Building and Construction4.1/5
Customer and Personal Service4.1/5
English Language3.6/5
Production and Processing3.3/5
Administration and Management3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
