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OaSIS 2025 Version 1.0
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73102.03 – Lathers

Lathers install support framework for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls and building partitions. Apprentices are also included in this occupation.

Overview

Example job titles

  • Lather
  • Metal lather

Core competencies

  • Time Management to ensure the framework installation is completed on schedule, which is essential for meeting project deadlines and keeping the overall construction timeline on track
  • Quality Control Testing to verify the framework is correctly installed according to engineering specifications, ensuring it can support the loads it’s designed to bear
  • Body Flexibility to effectively maneuver in tight spaces and adapt to various body positions and to perform tasks such as bending, twisting and reaching to ensure precise alignment and attachment of materials for lathing
  • Trunk Strength to support body weight while performing tasks such as lifting and positioning heavy materials in awkward or elevated positions, as well as maintaining stability and control during repetitive movements
  • Attention to Detail to meticulously measure, cut and fit materials to ensure precise alignment and structural integrity in framing and lathe installations
  • Knowledge in Building and Construction to understand building materials, framing techniques and installation of lath and accurately preparing surfaces for plaster or stucco applications in accordance with basic construction standards

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Prepare wall and ceiling layouts
  • Install metal stud framing and furring for interior drywall or plaster walls and ceilings, using hand and power tools
  • Attach metal or gypsum lath to studs or furring using nails, screws, clips or wire ties
  • Cut openings in lath for heating and ventilation piping, ducts and electrical outlets
  • Install corner beads and wire mesh around beams to which plaster is to be applied
  • May install acoustic tile, hangers for suspended ceilings and metal studs for composition wallboard or lath.

Additional information

  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
  • The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.

Similar occupations classified elsewhere

Exclusions:

  • Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades, installers, repairers and servicers (72014)

NOC hierarchy breakdown

NOC version

NOC 2021 Version 1.0

Broad occupational category

7 – Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations

TEER

3 – Occupations usually require a college diploma or apprenticeship training of less than two years; or more than six months of on-the-job training

Major group

73 – General trades

Sub-major group

731 – General construction trades

Minor group

7310 – Concrete finishers, tilesetters and plasterers

Unit group

73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers and lathers

Occupational profile

73102.03 – Lathers

O*NET in-it

This page includes information from the O*NET 27.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Employment and Social Development Canada has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.