Applicants should be high school graduates with a knowledge of arithmetic and some mechanical experience or training. Applicants are required to take a mechanical aptitude test before acceptance into the apprenticeship program. After completing an application and passing the mechanical aptitude test, jobs are usually supplied by the union. When hired, applicants must notify the apprenticeship office in order for a formal agreement to be signed between applicant and plastering contractor. The applicants then appear before the Joint Apprenticeship Committee for acceptance into the program.
Training usually starts immediately after acceptance.
Plasterers who work for large plastering contractors may have opportunities to advance from crew leaders to estimator, or to superintendent. Persons with business skills can become plastering contractors. All contractors are licensed by the Contractors State Licensing Board. Licensing candidates need four years of journey-level experience to take the written exam, which covers the Plasterer's trade and business operation knowledge. Job seekers should also register with the California Employment Development Department Job Service, or apply directly to plastering contractors.