The cement finisher is a cornerstone of construction sites in Quebec. They are involved from the early stages of the project to pour, place, and smooth concrete, whether for slabs, sidewalks, foundations, industrial floors, or specialized structures. This physical and technical trade requires precision, endurance, and an excellent knowledge of materials.

For those who wish to explore career opportunities in the industry, it is possible to explore construction jobs to better understand the current market needs.

Active listings connect the tasks of the trade to available cement finisher jobs.

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General Job Description

The cement finisher works with various types of concrete: regular, self-leveling, high-performance, or tailored to specific needs. They prepare surfaces, install some light formwork, distribute the concrete, compact it, level it, and finish it according to project specifications.

They can be found in residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors. As their work forms the foundation on which many other trades rely, the precision of their actions directly influences the final quality of the site. This trade is part of the construction trades and occupations recognized by the CCQ.

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Main Tasks

The cement finisher may be required to:

1. Prepare Surfaces

• clean and level work areas;

• install mesh, membranes, and underlays according to plans.

2. Place Concrete

• distribute and vibrate the concrete;

• control thickness, slopes, and levels.

3. Perform Finishing

• smooth or texture the surface;

• create control joints;

• apply surface treatments when required.

4. Read and Interpret Plans

• adhere to dimensions, heights, slopes, and technical requirements.

5. Follow Safety Rules

• handle concrete and specialized tools safely;

• work in various weather conditions.

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Cement Finisher Salary in 2025 (CCQ)

Hourly rates for the institutional/commercial/industrial (ICI) sector as of April 27, 2025:

• Journeyperson: $46.29/h

• Apprentice – period 1: $32.40/h

• Apprentice – period 2: $39.35/h

See all CCQ rates for 2025–2026 (official dates + amounts) for this trade?
Check our complete reference: CCQ Rate Chart 2025–2026

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Training and Access to the Trade

Access to the trade requires a DEP in Cement Finishing, lasting between 600 and 900 hours depending on the centre. The training covers:

• different types of concrete;

• placement and finishing;

• manual and mechanical tools;

• plan reading;

• site safety.

After the DEP, the apprentice must obtain a job guarantee to access their competency card. To understand this step, new workers can consult the article dedicated to the 150-hour guarantee.

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Employment Outlook 2025-2029

The outlook for this trade is very favourable. The vast majority of construction projects require concrete, ensuring constant demand. Additionally, many experienced workers are nearing retirement, opening up numerous opportunities for apprentices.

Public infrastructure work, renovation of existing structures, and the need for a skilled workforce further reinforce the stability of the trade.

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In Summary

The cement finisher benefits from:

• a competitive salary from the apprenticeship stage;

• great job stability;

• an essential role on construction sites;

• possible progression towards technical specializations.

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