Construction · SOC 47-3014
Paint and plaster helper roles are physical, variable, and site-specific — AI can assist with planning, but the support work stays manual.
Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
Timeline: Helper roles in finishing trades are physically intensive and mentor-dependent — AI exposure is negligible, with career progression the primary variable for income growth.
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$58,710 median pay
$57,250 median pay
$47,510 median pay
$51,650 median pay
$64,700 median pay
$48,680 median pay
AI job-risk card
Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons is resilient on AIFear. Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons is 13/100 (Resilient). Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
13 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Basic surface measurement and material estimation support. Harder to automate: Cleaning work areas and maintaining equipment, Sanding and buffing surfaces with hand and power tools, Supporting tradespeople on scaffold and ladders, Mixing materials and staging supplies for journeymen.
Lean into Surface preparation techniques, Construction safety basics, Power sanding and buffing equipment, Paint and coating materials knowledge. Consider roles such as Painter (full trade progression) or Plastering / stucco mason apprentice or Painting contractor (eventual business ownership).
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.