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Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons

SOC 47-3014.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers the full range of helper support duties—surface preparation, protective covering, crack filling, scaffolding, tool and material handling, and crew coordination—performed in residential and commercial construction environments at Job Zone 2 proficiency.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Work area surfaces and equipment — clean and remove debris under direct supervision at the start and end of each shift on a residential job site.
  2. Masking tape and protective sheeting — apply to fixtures, trim, and adjacent surfaces following step-by-step direction before painting or plastering begins.
  3. Hand tools and supply materials — hold, carry, and pass to journey-level painters or plasterers as instructed during active work operations.
  4. Scaffold components — assist in erecting basic scaffolding under close supervision, following verbal instructions and safety protocols on low-rise structures.
  5. Surface cracks and small breaks — fill with premixed putty or epoxy compound under direct guidance on interior plaster walls.
  6. Job site safety rules — recognize and follow basic hazard-avoidance protocols, including PPE use, while assisting experienced tradespeople.
  7. Simple verbal instructions — receive and confirm understanding of task assignments by asking clarifying questions and repeating directions back to the supervisor.
  8. Building materials and supplies — sort, stack, and organize paint cans, plaster mix, and tools in a designated staging area to maintain workflow efficiency.
  9. Protective drop cloths — place and secure over flooring and furniture under supervision prior to surface preparation or finishing work.
  10. Physical tasks involving lifting and reaching — perform repetitive material-handling duties such as carrying buckets or boards while maintaining body balance on ground-level sites.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Work areas and equipment — clean thoroughly and reset between tasks with minimal oversight, maintaining a tidy job site throughout the workday.
  2. Masking tape, plastic sheeting, and protective coverings — select appropriate materials and apply independently to complex surfaces such as window frames, cabinetry, and electrical fixtures.
  3. Tools and consumable materials — anticipate supply needs and stage equipment for painters or plasterers before requests are made, reducing workflow interruptions.
  4. Scaffolding structures — erect and dismantle standard scaffold configurations on two- to three-story commercial or residential projects following manufacturer guidelines and safety codes.
  5. Cracks, holes, and surface imperfections — assess and fill using putty, epoxy, or patching compound with consistent finish quality on both plaster and drywall surfaces.
  6. Support duties across multiple trades — coordinate assistance for painters, paperhangers, and plasterers concurrently on multi-trade job sites with moderate supervision.
  7. Verbal communication with crew members — relay task updates and material status clearly and concisely to supervisors and fellow helpers during active construction operations.
  8. Surface preparation steps — sand, wire-brush, and clean substrate areas in preparation for painting or plastering, applying learned technique with growing consistency.
  9. Body coordination and manual dexterity — execute overhead and lateral tool-handling tasks steadily while positioned on elevated platforms or narrow scaffold boards.
  10. Basic recordkeeping — track material usage and supply inventory using simple spreadsheet or word processing software as directed by the site supervisor.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Full support cycle — independently manage all helper duties across preparation, active work, and cleanup phases for painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and stucco masons on large commercial projects.
  2. Protective coverings and masking systems — devise and apply comprehensive surface-protection plans for complex interior environments, preventing damage to finished millwork and specialty fixtures.
  3. Scaffold systems — plan, erect, and inspect multi-level scaffolding configurations, identify load or stability issues, and implement corrective measures before crews ascend.
  4. Crack and surface repair — diagnose underlying causes of surface failures and select the appropriate filler compound, texture match, and application method for lasting repairs.
  5. Material and tool coordination — organize and manage the staging, replenishment, and proper storage of all trade materials to sustain uninterrupted production across a full workday.
  6. Non-routine hazards — recognize and respond to unexpected site conditions such as deteriorating plaster, lead paint indicators, or unstable substrates and escalate appropriately.
  7. Cross-trade communication — communicate technical needs and schedule conflicts clearly to painters, plasterers, site supervisors, and subcontractors to maintain project momentum.
  8. Physical endurance and body equilibrium — sustain elevated work positions and static-strength tasks across extended shifts while modeling safe body mechanics for newer helpers.
  9. Quality inspection — review completed preparation work against trade standards, identify deficiencies, and correct them before journey-level finishing crews advance to the next phase.
  10. Project support documentation — compile accurate daily logs of materials used, areas completed, and supply shortfalls using office suite or project management software tools.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Helper crew operations — direct and coordinate a team of emerging and developing helpers across multiple active work zones, assigning tasks to match individual skill levels and project priorities.
  2. Onboarding and skills development — design and deliver hands-on orientation routines that accelerate new helpers' proficiency in surface preparation, protective covering, and scaffold safety.
  3. Site-wide scaffold planning — lead the layout and phased erection of scaffold systems across large multi-story commercial or institutional projects, ensuring code compliance and crew safety.
  4. Quality and safety standards — establish and enforce job site preparation and cleanup standards, conducting regular walk-throughs and correcting deficiencies before they impact trade productivity.
  5. Material procurement coordination — liaise with site supervisors and procurement staff to forecast supply needs, reduce waste, and prevent work stoppages through proactive inventory management.
  6. Mentorship in physical techniques — coach helpers on proper use of gross body coordination, arm-hand steadiness, and static-strength techniques to reduce injury risk and improve output quality.
  7. Cross-functional collaboration — serve as the primary point of contact between helper crews and journey-level trade professionals, translating production goals into clear daily work assignments.
  8. Workforce documentation and reporting — oversee accurate completion of crew productivity logs, safety incident reports, and supply records using project management and spreadsheet software.
  9. Continuous improvement initiatives — identify recurring preparation defects or workflow bottlenecks and propose process changes to site leadership that improve overall finishing trade efficiency.
  10. Professional conduct and crew culture — model dependability, cooperation, and integrity on site, building a team environment that reflects industry standards for craftsmanship and mutual respect.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

The Anthropic Economic Index (2026-03-24 release) doesn't show enough AI-assisted task observations for this occupation to anchor an AI-at-Work Competency Framework yet. Most physical and on-site occupations land here today; that signal may rise as more workers in this field adopt AI tools.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Trade instruction reception — listens to painter, paperhanger, or plasterer directions and repeats back task requirements to confirm understanding on the job site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Material request communication — uses basic construction terminology to ask for specific tools or supplies needed for surface preparation tasks O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Scaffold erection coordination — communicates footing placement and brace positions to co-workers during scaffolding assembly to ensure structural alignment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hazard reporting — relays observed surface defects, cracks, or unsafe site conditions to the lead tradesperson using clear, direct language O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Work-area status updates — provides accurate verbal progress reports to painters or plasterers regarding masking, surface filling, and equipment readiness before coats are applied Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-trade communication — coordinates verbally with other construction helpers and tradespeople to sequence work activities without disrupting adjacent crews O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Site briefing facilitation — leads pre-task safety and readiness briefings for helper crews, translating lead tradesperson instructions into clear, actionable steps for all skill levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multilingual job-site communication — bridges language gaps between Spanish- and English-speaking crew members to ensure masking, mixing, and surface-prep instructions are uniformly understood Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Tool accountability — takes personal responsibility for organizing and returning assigned tools and materials at the end of each shift without prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Task initiation — begins assigned preparation duties such as laying drop cloths or mixing compounds without waiting for repeated instruction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Peer task support — guides a newer helper through correct masking tape application techniques to protect trim and fixtures from overspray Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Supply management initiative — anticipates material needs of the lead tradesperson and stages putty, epoxy, and tools in the work area before they are requested O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Helper crew coordination — directs a small group of helpers in sequential scaffold erection and protective covering tasks, ensuring correct order of operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety leadership — enforces drop cloth placement and masking standards on the work site, correcting deviations before the lead tradesperson begins application Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Onboarding mentorship — trains newly hired helpers in full surface-preparation workflows including crack filling, masking, scaffold setup, and equipment cleaning, building their independence over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Workflow optimization leadership — redesigns helper task sequencing on multi-room projects to reduce idle time between finish coats and support tradesperson productivity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task reflection — identifies which surface-filling or masking steps were completed incorrectly at end of task and notes what needs to change next time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning awareness — recognizes gaps in knowledge about specific plaster or stucco materials and asks the lead tradesperson targeted questions to fill those gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Technique self-monitoring — evaluates own crack-filling consistency during application and adjusts compound pressure and tool angle before the surface sets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Effort calibration — recognizes when a cleaning task requires more or less intensity based on material type and adjusts approach accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Preparation quality self-assessment — inspects own masking and protective covering work against the lead tradesperson's standards before signaling readiness to begin finish work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill progression tracking — identifies which trade support competencies have been mastered and which require more deliberate practice across different surface materials Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive strategy modeling — demonstrates to newer helpers how to mentally sequence scaffold erection, masking, and cleanup tasks to minimize errors and rework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning transfer analysis — applies surface-preparation lessons learned on plaster projects to novel stucco or paperhang assignments, articulating the reasoning behind technique adaptations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Surface condition recognition — identifies visible cracks, gaps, or damage on walls and ceilings that require filling before tradesperson begins finish application O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Material selection awareness — distinguishes between putty and epoxy compounds based on crack size and surface type when directed by the lead tradesperson O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Masking decision-making — evaluates which surfaces, fixtures, and edges require protective covering based on the type of paint or plaster being applied nearby Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Scaffold safety evaluation — assesses footing stability and brace alignment during erection and identifies adjustments needed before the structure bears weight O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Surface preparation prioritization — sequences crack filling, sanding, and cleaning tasks by drying time and tradesperson schedule to prevent bottlenecks in the workflow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem diagnosis — identifies the cause of adhesion or coverage failures such as inadequate surface cleaning or improper masking and recommends corrective action to the lead Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Root-cause analysis — investigates recurring surface defects across a project and traces issues back to preparation errors in compound application, mixing ratios, or environmental conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Process improvement reasoning — evaluates alternative masking products, scaffold configurations, or cleaning sequences and recommends changes that reduce rework and material waste Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Tool passing cooperation — supplies tools and materials to painters or plasterers at the correct moment during active application to maintain uninterrupted workflow O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Shared workspace respect — keeps work areas clear of personal equipment and debris to avoid obstructing tradespeople and co-workers during finish operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Two-person scaffold coordination — works in tandem with another helper to erect and stabilize scaffolding sections, communicating lift and lock timing throughout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Multi-trade site cooperation — adjusts masking and protective covering placement based on the needs of adjacent flooring, electrical, or painting crews operating in shared spaces Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Tradesperson support partnership — anticipates and responds to the full range of support needs for painters, paperhangers, plasterers, and masons simultaneously on multi-trade project sites O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Crew problem-solving — contributes specific surface-preparation knowledge when the helper team collectively troubleshoots delayed drying times or uneven compound coverage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional workflow integration — coordinates helper team activities across painting, plastering, and paperhang operations to synchronize preparation, application, and cleanup cycles without disruption Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict de-escalation on site — mediates disagreements between helpers over task assignments or material usage, restoring cooperative workflow quickly and professionally Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Material stewardship — handles tools, compounds, and protective coverings with care to prevent unnecessary waste or damage on the job site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Punctuality and readiness — arrives at the work site prepared to begin surface preparation and support tasks at the scheduled start time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Honest error reporting — immediately notifies the lead tradesperson when a masking mistake or surface-filling error is discovered, rather than concealing the issue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Clean-site accountability — thoroughly cleans work areas and equipment after each task cycle without being reminded, meeting the professional standards of the trade O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Safety compliance integrity — consistently follows scaffold erection procedures and protective covering protocols even when supervision is not present Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct — maintains respectful and constructive interactions with tradespeople, co-workers, and site supervisors across varying pressure levels and project phases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical materials use — documents and reports accurate compound usage and material quantities, preventing misrepresentation of job-site consumption to supervisors or clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability modeling — holds self and helper peers to consistent professional standards for workmanship, cleanliness, and conduct, reinforcing crew-wide integrity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Improvised protection solutions — adapts available drop cloths, plastic sheeting, or cardboard to protect irregularly shaped fixtures when standard masking materials are insufficient Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Alternative tool use — identifies a secondary tool that accomplishes a surface preparation task when the primary tool is unavailable or unsuitable for the surface type Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Custom masking configurations — devises masking tape and sheeting arrangements for complex architectural details such as crown molding, corbels, or recessed panels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Scaffold adaptation — modifies scaffold base configuration to provide stable working platforms on uneven or sloped outdoor surfaces for stucco or plaster applications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Workflow innovation — develops a preparation sequence for multi-surface rooms that reduces masking overlap time and allows tradespeople to begin application sooner Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem-solving improvisation — uses available materials on site to create temporary containment barriers when standard protective coverings are delayed or depleted Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process reinvention — introduces a revised crack-filling and surface-priming workflow to the helper crew that improves surface quality scores and reduces tradesperson touch-up time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative training design — develops visual job aids and demonstration sequences for teaching masking and scaffold techniques to new helpers across varying literacy and experience levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback receptivity — accepts correction from lead tradespeople on compound application or masking technique and immediately adjusts approach without defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill curiosity — asks questions about the properties of plaster, stucco, and paint materials to build foundational trade knowledge beyond assigned helper duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error-to-learning conversion — reviews surface defects caused by preparation mistakes and applies corrective technique on subsequent tasks within the same project Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge acceptance — volunteers for unfamiliar preparation tasks such as working with new compound types or scaffold configurations to expand trade skill range Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Deliberate skill building — seeks out assignments alongside plasterers or stucco masons to observe and internalize higher-level surface preparation and finishing techniques Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback persistence — continues applying correct surface-filling techniques across a full project cycle even after early attempts produce substandard results requiring rework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery pursuit modeling — demonstrates to newer helpers how sustained effort and repeated practice across different surface types leads to measurable improvement in preparation quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-trade learning initiative — pursues exposure to paperhang, plaster, and paint application techniques beyond helper duties to build a foundation for trade advancement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Distraction management — maintains focused attention on masking and protective covering tasks in busy, multi-crew job-site environments to prevent coverage errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical awareness — monitors own body position and grip when supplying tools or materials to tradespeople working at height or in confined spaces Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Emotional regulation under correction — receives critical feedback from lead tradespeople on preparation quality calmly and without escalating tension on the job site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Attention to surface detail — examines walls and ceilings methodically for cracks, holes, and surface irregularities before signaling readiness for tradesperson application Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Paced task execution — maintains deliberate, steady work pace during compound filling and masking to avoid rushed errors that require rework before finish coats Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress response management — sustains accurate protective covering and tool support performance during high-pressure project deadlines without sacrificing preparation quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Intentional presence coaching — models deliberate, distraction-free task execution for the helper crew, demonstrating how attentiveness during preparation prevents costly tradesperson rework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Environmental mindfulness — monitors changing job-site conditions such as humidity, temperature, and dust levels that affect compound drying and adhesion, adjusting preparation steps proactively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance — sustains repetitive surface cleaning, masking, and material transport tasks across a full shift in physically demanding construction environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Discomfort tolerance — continues preparation work in dusty, cold, or confined job-site conditions without abandoning assigned tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Rework resilience — restarts a masking or crack-filling section after a quality failure without loss of effort or attitude, completing the correction fully Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained scaffold work — maintains safe, productive performance at elevation on scaffolding for extended periods during multi-story exterior plaster or stucco applications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Project endurance — sustains consistent preparation quality and physical output across multi-week painting or plastering projects with repetitive daily task cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adversity navigation — continues supporting lead tradespeople effectively when project conditions shift such as material shortages, weather delays, or last-minute scope changes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Resilience modeling — demonstrates sustained effort and positive work ethic to helper peers during prolonged, physically demanding projects, maintaining crew morale and productivity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous safety advocacy — raises scaffold safety concerns or work-condition hazards to the site supervisor even when doing so challenges established crew norms or creates friction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
SpeakingCoordination
Knowledge domains
Building and ConstructionEnglish Language
Abilities
Extent FlexibilityGross Body EquilibriumManual DexterityStatic StrengthTrunk StrengthArm-Hand SteadinessMultilimb CoordinationGross Body CoordinationNear VisionFar Vision
Work styles
DependabilityCooperationAttention to DetailCautiousnessHumilityIntegrity
Technology
Accounting softwareOffice suite softwareProject management softwareSpreadsheet softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Clean work areas and equipment.
  2. Perform support duties to assist painters, paperhangers, plasterers, or masons.
  3. Apply protective coverings, such as masking tape, to articles or areas that could be damaged or stained by work processes.
  4. Erect scaffolding.
  5. Fill cracks or breaks in surfaces of plaster articles or areas with putty or epoxy compounds.
  6. Supply or hold tools and materials.
CIP education codes
46.000046.010146.020146.030246.040146.0402

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.