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Plastering Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Architectural Decorative Plasterer (Painter) This position is located in the Architect of the Capitol, Office of the Chief of Operations, Superintendent, Senate Office Buildings, Tenant Services ...

Finisher - DMV

Kensington, MD · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Joining drywall panels using tape and plaster. * Repairing cracks and any other damage to the drywall panels. * Concealing any imperfections or exposed irregularities in the drywall surface.

Finisher - DMV

Kensington, MD · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Joining drywall panels using tape and plaster. * Repairing cracks and any other damage to the drywall panels. * Concealing any imperfections or exposed irregularities in the drywall surface.

Finisher - Manassas

Kensington, MD · On-site

$21 - $28.50/hr

Joining drywall panels using tape and plaster. * Repairing cracks and any other damage to the drywall panels. * Concealing any imperfections or exposed irregularities in the drywall surface.

Painter

Washington, DC · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

The Painter prepares surfaces including: sanding, taping, plastering, and all other related duties. * Mixes materials used: such as paints, stains, varnishes, enamels, lacquers and "custom" colors as ...

Pool Service Technician

Lorton, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Prep pools for plaster, coping, and tile work * Assist with leak detection * Represent our company with professionalism and customer care What You Need: * Valid driver's license (clean record) * 4+ ...

Pool Service Technician

Lorton, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Prep pools for plaster, coping, and tile work * Assist with leak detection * Represent our company with professionalism and customer care What You Need: * Valid driver's license (clean record) * 4+ ...

Pool Service Technician

Lorton, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Prep pools for plaster, coping, and tile work * Assist with leak detection * Represent our company with professionalism and customer care What You Need: * Valid driver's license (clean record) * 4+ ...

Maintenance Tech

Clinton, MD · On-site

$20.57 - $36.27/hr

Performs minor repairs and maintenance to include painting plastering carpentry plumbing and electrical power on electrical equipment machinery buildings and facilities. * Performs other duties as ...

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Plastering information

See Washington salary details

$18

$30

$38

How much do plastering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastering in Washington is $30.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.15 and $34.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is plastering a difficult job?

Plastering is a skilled trade that requires precision, physical strength, and attention to detail. It can be physically demanding and involves working with tools like trowels and mixers, but with proper training and experience, it becomes easier over time.

What is the difference between Plastering vs Tiling?

AspectPlasteringTiling
CredentialsNVQ or City & Guilds in PlasteringNVQ or City & Guilds in Tiling
Work EnvironmentInterior and exterior walls, ceilingsFloors, walls, bathrooms, kitchens
Industry UsageConstruction, renovation, repairFlooring, wall finishes, waterproofing

Plastering and tiling are both essential trades in construction and renovation. Plastering involves applying plaster to walls and ceilings to create a smooth surface, while tiling focuses on installing tiles for floors and walls. Although they share similar skills and work environments, their materials and techniques differ significantly. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their project needs.

Does a plastering make good money?

Plastering can be a well-paying trade, with experienced plasterers earning a competitive income depending on location, skill level, and project complexity. Many plasterers work as independent contractors or in construction companies, and earning potential increases with specialization and reputation. Certification and proficiency with tools like trowels and mixers can also impact earnings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plasterer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plasterer, you need proficiency in surface preparation, application of plaster materials, and a solid understanding of construction safety, typically acquired through apprenticeships or vocational training. Familiarity with tools such as trowels, mixers, and scaffolding, as well as knowledge of various plastering compounds, is essential. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and effective communication with clients and team members are key soft skills that set top plasterers apart. These skills ensure the delivery of smooth, durable finishes and efficient teamwork on construction or renovation projects.

What does a plasterer do?

A plasterer is a skilled tradesperson who applies plaster to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces to create a smooth or decorative finish. Their work is essential for both new construction and renovation projects, as they prepare surfaces for painting or wallpapering and repair existing plasterwork. Plasterers use a variety of materials, including gypsum, lime, and cement, and may also specialize in ornamental or decorative plastering for architectural features. The job requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and knowledge of different plastering techniques. Good plastering improves the durability and appearance of interior and exterior surfaces.

What are some common challenges plasterers face when working on older buildings?

Plasterers working on older buildings often encounter challenges such as uneven surfaces, crumbling substrates, or previous repairs that were not done properly. These issues require careful assessment and preparation, including removing loose material, repairing underlying structures, and sometimes matching historic plaster techniques or finishes. Attention to detail and patience are essential, as maintaining the building's integrity and achieving a smooth, seamless result can be more demanding than with new construction. Collaborating with other trades like carpenters or conservation specialists is also common in these projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plastering jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Plastering jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Plastering jobs in Washington?

For Plastering jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Plastering jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Plastering job openings:

Infographic showing various Plastering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,999 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Decorative Plasterer

Architect of the Capitol

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Architect Of The Capitol rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary
This position is located in the Architect of the Capitol, Office of the Chief of Operations, Superintendent, Senate Office Buildings, Tenant Services Division, Masonry Branch. As a Decorative Plasterer (Painter) you will perform intricate painting and decorative work requiring skill to restore decorative surfaces.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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TOUR OF DUTY: DAY SHIFT (6:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M.) with the possibility of a flex work schedule.
Major Duties:
Surface Preparation and Plastering Work:
Works on additions, renovations, patching, and new construction. Performs maintenance and repair on unique and historically significant plaster walls, ceilings, cornices, and moldings. Prepares surfaces for coating. Prepares woodwork by applying solvents to remove old finishes. Takes care to avoid damaging significant architectural features.
Removes old paint from interior and exterior walls, doors, baseboards, floors, and interior trim. Scrapes, sandpapers, or applies paint remover as needed to prepare surfaces for refinishing.
Tapes, mortars or applies topping cement to joints between dry-wall board sheets to fill joints and nail heads and bring joints into smooth, even planes. Smooths surfaces by wet brushing and sanding.
Applies plaster to walls and ceilings by spreading and smoothing plaster over laths with trowel. Applies decorative plaster in ornate and patterned finishes to exactly match the previous finish. Uses trowels, float, screed, plasterers hawk, straight edge, and personally-devised tools as appropriate.
Repairs ceiling centers, ceiling panels, columns, corbel arches, corbel blocks, cornices, edge moldings, gable trims, molded carvings, pedestals, pediments, pilasters, plaster domes, and plaster fire surrounds. Fabricates and installs replacements for these items as needed. Repairs and patches plaster and stucco surfaces. Applies plaster on metal, wood or gypsum lathe, wallboard, and masonry surfaces. Patches damaged sections of walls and ceilings. Chips out old plaster, trims edges until a solid joint is found, and fills with new plaster. Straightens edges and trowels to an even surface.
Applies interior and exterior skim-coat and two-coat plaster. Installs metal lath and applies exterior plaster. Applies striping, stippling, graining, and gold highlights on trim moldings.
Plumbs and straightens angles, ceilings, corners, and wall surfaces. Cleans and prepares surfaces. Staples on wire-mesh frames or roughens surfaces with mechanical hammers. Ensures maintenance of fire-rated wall barriers.
Erects, maintains, and repairs masonry, including brick, concrete block, glazed tile, floor tile, and marble.
Performs intricate decorative painting work requiring skill to apply gold leaf and other coatings to restore decorative surfaces and works of art. Uses artist brushes for intricate painting and decorative work. Applies color glazing, graining, lettering, marbling, stenciling, stippling, and striping. Paints and varnishes interior surfaces to protect, restore, and maintain interior and exterior surfaces. Applies paints, stains, and varnishes by brushing, rolling, or spraying. Applies finishes to equipment, metal, doors, windows, and interior and exterior walls.
Matches color, textures, and shading where exact matches with original finishes are required. Blends and mixes paints to match original colors and textures of original surfaces and architectural features.
Hangs wall coverings matching new wallpaper and fabric patterns and fabrics to the original. Paints building signs from stenciled outlines.
Uses sprayers, brushes, rollers, and other hand and power tools. Uses ladders and scaffolding to reach ceilings and other areas high above the floor. Cleans and maintains tools and equipment as appropriate.
Coordinates with unit supervisor to prepare scopes of work, cost estimates, and schedules of proposed work to be performed by contract workers. Oversees and directs the work of temporary painters and laborers.
Uses a personal computer to record work orders, prepare requisitions for materials, tools, and equipment, track material inventory, and communicate with supervisors and organizational staff.
The incumbent must follow all relevant safety rules, regulations, and standard operating procedures. Must utilize knowledge of and must comply with all OSHA safety rules and regulations to ensure that work progresses in a safe manner. Receives training, either on the job or through classroom training, to ensure that all safety practices and equipment are fully utilized. Must ensure the use of any required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • You must be able to pass a drug test.
  • Your resume and question responses must demonstrate job-related elements.
"To be employed by the Architect of the Capitol in a paid position, an individual must meet one of the categories below:
  • A citizen of the United States;
  • A person who is lawfully admitted for permanent residence and is seeking citizenship as outlined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)(B);
  • A person who is admitted as a refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157 or is granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. 1158 and has filed a declaration of intention to become a lawful permanent resident and then a citizen when eligible;
  • A person who owes allegiance to the United States (nationals of American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Northern Mariana Islands, and nationals who meet other requirements described in 8 U.S.C. 1408); or
  • A person who is currently an officer or employee of the Government of the United States."

Qualifications
You must meet all eligibility and qualifications requirements by the closing date of the job announcement.
SCREEN-OUT FACTOR: Ability to perform the work of a decorative plasterer without more than normal supervision, which includes working independently, showing job responsibility and exercising initiative.
Education
There is no educational requirement for this position.
Additional information
Welcome Veterans. The Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 (VEOA) gives veterans' preference rights in the legislative branch to certain veterans as applied by the Congressional Accountability Act. Veterans' preference is applied on this vacancy announcement. If you are a veteran and have been separated under honorable conditions, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 or other proof of eligibility; SF-15, if applicable; and Department of Veterans Affairs documentation of disability, if applicable. For more information, please visit http://www.opm.gov/veterans/html/vetguide.asp#6.
If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System. If you are exempt from registration under Selective Service Law, you must provide appropriate proof of exemption. Please visit the Selective Service System website for more information. If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System.
DRUG TESTING: The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is a Drug Free Workplace. As part of the AOC's suitability assessment, a candidate tentatively selected for a position who is not currently an AOC employee is required to submit to screening for illegal drug use. Satisfactory completion of a drug test is a condition of employment with the Agency. A candidate must test negative prior to being eligible for appointment into a position. We will schedule, provide and cover the cost for the drug test.
The selectee(s) under the vacancy announcement for this position is subject to a criminal record check by the U.S. Capitol Police and satisfactory adjudication to be eligible for employment at the Architect of the Capitol.
The Architect of the Capitol is an E-VERIFY Participant. E-VERIFY is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee's Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment authorization in the United States. If you are selected for this position, the documentation that you present for purposes of completing the DHS Form I-9 will be verified through the DHS "E-VERIFY" electronic system. For more information on E-Verify, please visit http://www.dhs.gov/files/programs/gc_1185221678150.shtm
The Architect of the Capitol is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information and/or disability.
This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the agency. The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Moving expenses are not authorized.
Relocation expenses are not authorized.
Probationary Period - A newly appointed selectee is subject to the completion of a one-year trial/probationary period, regardless of whether or not a trial/probationary period has been completed previously with the Architect of the Capitol or another Federal agency.
This vacancy announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies in any of the jurisdictions of the Architect of the Capitol.
All application materials become the property of the Architect of the Capitol.
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Selected applicant(s) may be eligible to earn a higher annual leave accrual rate credit towards annual leave accrual based on prior non-Federal or uniformed service work experience. The amount of service credit will be based on specialized experience or qualifying experience that is provided on the applicant profile submitted. As such, if you are a new employee to the Federal Government or a rehire, it is important that you provide a work history that lists all directly related positions held, and it must include the dates of employment (month/day/year).
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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