Concrete Finisher
Pour, spread, and finish concrete for floors, sidewalks, roads, and other structures.
About Concrete Finisher
Concrete finishers pour, spread, and finish concrete for floors, sidewalks, roads, curbs, and other structures. They operate power tools and equipment to level, smooth, and finish concrete surfaces, and apply curing and sealing compounds.
Work Environment
Concrete finishers work outdoors on construction sites in all weather conditions. The work is time-sensitive as concrete must be finished before it sets. They may work long hours during pours and are exposed to wet concrete, which can be caustic to skin.
Physical Demands
- Prolonged kneeling and bending
- Heavy lifting of forms and tools
- Working in wet conditions with concrete
- Time-pressure during concrete pours
- Outdoor work in extreme temperatures
Designated Provinces & Territories
Red Seal Exam Structure
The Concrete Finisher Red Seal exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering 5 major work activity areas.
Total Questions
Multiple choice
5–15%
Knowledge & Recall
60–70%
Procedural Application
20–30%
Critical Thinking
Skills for Success
The essential skills required to succeed in this trade, as defined by the Red Seal program.
Reading
Read technical manuals, code books, specifications, and safety documentation related to concrete finishing.
Document Use
Interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and technical documents used in concrete finishing.
Writing
Complete work orders, reports, inspection records, and other documentation for concrete finishing.
Oral Communication
Communicate with clients, colleagues, supervisors, and other trades to coordinate concrete finishing work.
Numeracy
Perform measurements, calculations, and estimates required for concrete finishing tasks.
Thinking
Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to diagnose issues and plan concrete finishing work.
Working with Others
Collaborate with team members, apprentices, and other trades on concrete finishing projects.
Digital Technology
Use digital tools, diagnostic software, and computer-based systems relevant to concrete finishing.
Continuous Learning
Stay current with evolving codes, technologies, and best practices in concrete finishing.
Career Advancement
Concrete finishers can advance to foreman, superintendent, or estimator. Some specialize in decorative concrete, stamping, or polishing, while others move into concrete testing or quality control.
Specializations
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