Floor Sanders and Finishers
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 FinisherFloor MechanicFloor SanderHardwood Floor Sander
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Excel
Technology Skills
Computer aided design CAD softwareFloor planning softwareFloorCOST Estimator for ExcelFlooring Technologies QFloorsMeasure SquarePacific Solutions FloorRightVimeo
Tools & Equipment
Application brushesClaw hammersCorner toolsDraw chiselsDrum sandersDust masksEdge sandersFinish application rollers