Painter, paperhanger, plasterer, and stucco mason helper. Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons
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This occupation is an entry-level manual assistance role; automation tools (e.g., automatic spray painting robots, smart plastering machines) will gradually replace low-skilled tasks, significantly reducing entry-level positions, but demand for senior tradespeople remains stable.
More exposed than about 0% of occupations (percentile; higher = more exposed to AI)
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Replaces low-skilled tasks such as paint assistants preparing paint, operating spray guns, and cleaning painting equipment, automating wall painting.
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Replaces plasterer assistants in manual tasks like wall sanding, cleaning, and spraying, improving wall treatment efficiency.
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Replaces part of the assistant's tasks in supervising and recording material delivery, tool organization, etc., reducing manual checks through automated monitoring.
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Replaced tasks like handheld spray guns and paint mixing for paint assistants in industrial settings, achieving high-precision automatic spraying.
- Automatic spray painting robots replace manual brush painting and roller coating
- Automatic plastering machines replace manual plastering and leveling
- AI automatic cutting machine replaces manual measurement and cutting by paperhangers
- Smart cleaning robots replace cleaning tools and venues
- Drone automatic spraying system replaces manual scaffolding spraying
- AI scheduling system optimizes task assignment and material transport
- AR glasses provide real-time construction instructions and remote expert guidance
- Spray robots assist with large-area base coating; manual finishing for detail work
- Smart detection equipment provides real-time feedback on coating thickness and flatness.
- AI construction management platform automatically records work hours and material consumption
- Fine manual handling of complex surfaces or irregular structures.
- Flexibly handle unexpected issues on site (e.g., material defects, weather changes)
- Communicates with clients on aesthetic needs like color and texture
- Coordination and judgment skills in multi-trade collaboration
- Ability to restore original craftsmanship in old building renovation.
- Operate and debug automated spraying/plastering robots
- Use AR-assisted construction and remote collaboration software
- Digital construction management platforms (e.g., Procore).
- Basic electrical and mechanical repair (maintaining automated equipment)
- Quality inspection and data recording (e.g., coating thickness gauge).
- Knowledge of safety regulations and eco-friendly materials
Entry-level positions have significantly decreased due to the spread of automated painting and plastering machines. Contractors prefer hiring a few skilled workers with machines over many manual helpers, intensifying competition for entry-level roles.
Recommend progressing to skilled painter, paperhanger, or plasterer; master automated equipment operation and maintenance, become a site supervisor managing robot construction crews, or transition to upstream and downstream roles like building quality inspection or materials R&D.
Local data by country
Ratings · Overall 6.3/10
Salary
| Experience | Annual (USD) | |
|---|---|---|
| 薪资中位数 | $40,470 ~ $40,470 | 全国全职年薪中位数（来源：美国 BLS OES 2025） |
| Entry level (0–3 years) | $28,000 ~ $35,000 | Typically $14-17 per hour |
| Mid-level (3–6 years) | $35,000 ~ $43,000 | Experienced workers earn $17–$21 per hour |
| Senior (6+ years) | $43,000 ~ $55,000 | Senior assistant or promotion to skilled worker |
| 平均薪资 | $42,440 ~ $42,440 | 全国全职年薪均值（来源：美国 BLS OES 2025） |
Education Path
| Stage | Duration | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| High school diploma | 4 years | $0~$0 |
| On-the-job training | Short-term | $1,000~$5,000 |
Qualifications
| Qualification | Issuer | |
|---|---|---|
| High school diploma | High school | Optional |
| OSHA safety certification | OSHA | Optional |
Migration (to United States)
Not a skilled migration occupation. Visa pathways depend on matching the specific duties to the right petition category; refer to the latest USCIS rules and the relevant category.
Who it fits
- People who enjoy physical labor and hands-on work
- Individuals willing to start from basics and receive on-the-job training
- Those seeking entry paths into the construction industry
- People who prefer an indoor office environment
- People seeking high salary or rapid promotion
Career outlook
Usually starts as a basic assistant, gaining experience to become a skilled painter, plasterer, etc., or switch to other construction trades. Some obtain formal skill certifications through apprenticeship programs.
Projected employment growth of about 4% from 2023-2033, about as fast as average for all occupations. Overall construction activity supports this role, but automation risk is low.
Growth areas：
Construction growthMaintenanceRenovationSteady demand
FAQ
Data sources
Salary ranges are estimates aggregated from public listings on Indeed, Glassdoor, ERI SalaryExpert and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS OEWS); employment and demand outlook cite the BLS Occupational Outlook and O*NET; visa and migration details follow the latest USCIS work-visa (H-1B / O-1 / L-1) and employment-based green-card (EB-2 / EB-3, incl. DOL PERM labor certification) rules. Figures are indicative only — always refer to the latest official sources.
What the community thinks
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