Not all finishes applied to walls and ceilings are 'wet', like plaster. 'Dry' finishes, such as plasterboard and wallboard, can be fixed up, joined together and decorated instead. A dry lining operative is the skilled worker who carries out this job.
In Scotland, this job is done by a Carpenter and Joiner.
This is an indoor-only role but as in most construction work, you need to be fit. You should also have good numeracy skills, as you'll be calculating surface areas and volumes. In addition, you'll need to be able to read plans, diagrams and information sheets.
There are no set entry requirements to train as a dry liner, although GCSEs/Standard Grades in Maths, English and Technology will be helpful for the calculations, measurements and theory.
Apprenticeships are the usual route in and enable you to earn while you learn. Entry to an apprenticeship scheme will usually involve a selection test.
The Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) agrees wage rates annually. Pay rates for apprentices in Scotland are set by SBATC. A good basic wage is available and can be boosted with the incentive schemes that many companies offer.
The job also offers a good grounding for progression into technical, supervisory or management roles, or even to start up your own business.
