How to Be Cement Finisher Laborer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 27, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The job of a cement finisher laborer is to assist the concrete finisher in the construction of concrete slabs, walls, and other structures. It involves mixing and pouring concrete, troweling, and finishing concrete surfaces. The effect of this job is that it helps to build strong and durable structures that can withstand various weather conditions.

The job requires physical strength and stamina, as well as knowledge of construction materials and processes. In addition, the laborer must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and be detail-oriented for best results. Furthermore, the laborer must be able to work with heavy machinery such as power trowels, vibrators, and other tools used for creating smooth and level surfaces.

All these necessary skills result in the efficient and timely completion of projects, which ensures customer satisfaction.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require cement finisher laborers to have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Research and complete an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs provide the best way to become a cement finisher laborer. Look for programs offered by local trade unions, technical schools, and community colleges.
Learn the trade. As an apprentice, youll learn the basics of cement finishing, such as preparing surfaces, mixing mortar and concrete, applying concrete, and smoothing and finishing the surface.
Practice on the job. Once youve gained all the necessary skills as an apprentice, begin working as a cement finisher laborer.
Continue your education. Many employers prefer to hire workers with additional certifications or degrees in the field. Consider taking additional courses in cement finishing or related subjects to increase your marketability and earning potential.

The job of a Cement Finisher Laborer requires a great deal of skill and experience. To be ideal and capable, one must have an understanding of the entire construction process, including knowledge of the different types of tools and materials used in the job. As the laborer is responsible for mixing and pouring the concrete, it is essential to have an aptitude for the process, as well as a keen eye for detail.

it is important to be able to recognize potential problems and take corrective action if any arise. By having a strong understanding of the entire process, a Cement Finisher Laborer can ensure that the final product is of high quality and meets the customers expectations.

You may want to check Assembler Laborer, Sheet Metal Worker Laborer, and Millwright Laborer for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare and smooth concrete surfaces for installation.
Operate power trowels, floats, and other tools in order to finish the surface of freshly poured concrete.
Construct forms for pouring concrete and remove them after the concrete has set.
Cut expansion joints in the concrete with a grooving tool or saw.
Spread mortar or other bonding materials between bricks and stones.
Apply sealants or other protective coatings to finished surfaces.
Install reinforcing steel or mesh in concrete forms prior to pouring concrete.
Cut and place expansion joints in the concrete to allow for contraction and expansion of the concrete due to weather fluctuations.
Mix concrete and other materials to create a uniform texture and color.
Place block and brick walls in their designated locations using a level and a trowel.
Work with other laborers to finish more complex projects such as patios, sidewalks, and driveways.
Operate machinery such as mixers, compressors, pumps, and other equipment as needed.
Clean up job sites and dispose of debris properly in accordance with safety regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to read and interpret blueprints and plans.
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures.
Ability to operate and maintain cement finishing tools and equipment.
Knowledge of cement mixing ratios and application techniques.
Ability to work in a team environment to complete projects in a timely manner.
Ability to lift and carry heavy materials.
Ability to recognize potential problems and take corrective action.
Ability to follow directions and adhere to quality control standards.
Ability to measure, cut, and shape cement accurately.
Ability to troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed.

Cement finisher laborers are essential to many construction projects. Their skillset includes a variety of tasks such as mixing, pouring, leveling, and smoothing cement. This job requires a high level of physical strength and stamina, as the labor is physically demanding and the days long.

Furthermore, the ability to read and interpret blueprints and understand measurements is critical for the completion of projects according to specifications. Attention to detail is also important in order to ensure a seamless finish, as small imperfections can make a big difference in the final product. In addition, communication between laborers and supervisors is essential to ensure that tasks are completed in a timely and accurate manner.

Without these skills, cement finisher laborers would not be able to effectively contribute to construction projects.

Carpet Layer Laborer, Drywall Laborer, and Production Laborer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a cement finisher laborer?
How well do you understand cement finishing techniques?
Are you familiar with the use of power tools in cement finishing?
What safety techniques do you follow when working with cement?
How do you ensure the accuracy of your cement finishing work?
Do you have experience in setting and operating concrete forms?
How do you collaboratively work with other laborers in a cement finishing project?
Can you explain how to properly prepare a work surface for cement finishing?
How do you stay up to date on the latest cement finishing techniques and technologies?
What challenges have you faced while working with cement, and how did you address them?

Common Tools in Industry

Trowel. Used to level and smooth surfaces, such as concrete and plaster. (eg: Used to smooth out the concrete after it has been poured)
Bull Float. Used to level out large areas of concrete and to create a flat surface. (eg: Used to spread the concrete evenly over a large area)
Hand Floater. Used to create a smooth finish on concrete surfaces. (eg: Used to fill in small holes and create a uniform texture)
Groover. Used to create grooves in concrete for drainage and decorative purposes. (eg: Used to create a decorative pattern in the concrete)
Edger. Used to create a beveled edge along the perimeter of a concrete surface. (eg: Used to create a clean, finished edge around the perimeter of the concrete slab)
Concrete Saw. Used to cut shapes and patterns into concrete surfaces. (eg: Used to cut a rectangle out of a concrete surface for a doorway)
Chisel. Used for breaking up and removing large pieces of concrete. (eg: Used to break up and remove large chunks of concrete before smoothing out the surface)
Vibrator. Used to help settle and compact concrete. (eg: Used to settle and compact the concrete while it is being poured)
Hammer. Used to drive nails or stakes into the ground. (eg: Used to drive stakes into the ground to secure forms while pouring concrete)
Wheelbarrow. Used to transport materials such as sand, gravel, and concrete. (eg: Used to transport materials from the delivery truck to the work site)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Concrete Institute (ACI)
National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA)
Portland Cement Association (PCA)
International Masonry Institute (IMI)
American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC)
Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA)
International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC)
American Subcontractors Association (ASA)
American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE)
The Masonry Society (TMS)

We also have Welder Helper and Laborer, Electrical Laborer, and Foundry Laborer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Concrete Finishing. The process of smoothing and shaping the surface of concrete after it has been poured.
Grading. The process of leveling and sloping a surface to the desired grade and elevation.
Troweling. The process of using a trowel to level and polish the surface of freshly poured concrete.
Edging. The process of using an edging tool to create a smooth, beveled edge.
Screeding. The process of leveling concrete with a long piece of wood or metal called a screed.
Bull Floating. The process of using a long-handled trowel to smooth the surface of freshly poured concrete.
Formwork. The process of constructing forms to contain the concrete being poured.
Curing. The process of allowing the concrete to harden and cure before it is used or walked on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of a Cement Finisher Laborer?

A Cement Finisher Laborer is responsible for spreading and smoothing concrete to create a flat, durable surface. They may also be tasked with constructing and maintaining sidewalks, curbs, and other concrete structures.

What skills are needed to be a successful Cement Finisher Laborer?

To be a successful Cement Finisher Laborer, one should have physical stamina, hand-eye coordination, strength, and communication skills. Attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively with other construction workers is also important.

What type of environment does a Cement Finisher Laborer work in?

Cement Finisher Laborers typically work in outdoor construction sites, and may need to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy items. They may also need to work in extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, and rain.

What safety precautions should a Cement Finisher Laborer take?

Cement Finisher Laborers should always wear safety gear such as hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing. They should also be aware of their surroundings and any potential hazards such as machinery and heavy equipment.

What type of salary can a Cement Finisher Laborer expect?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a Cement Finisher Laborer is $32,040 per year or $15.35 per hour. Salaries may vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.