What's involved?

There are a number of methods used to prepare a substrate (underlying surface). A surface preparation operative selects the correct method for each job, operates the specialist machinery needed and then safely transports, offloads and maintains the equipment involved.

Skills required

The job is physically demanding so you'll have to be reasonably fit as well as practical. You also need to be good with your hands so you can operate the specialist machinery involved.

You'll need to be co-operative, team-orientated and have good numeracy skills as you'll be calculating surface areas and volumes. You also have to be able to read plans, diagrams and information sheets.

Some time may be taken up travelling between different work sites and projects, so a driving licence may be useful.

Qualifications required

There are no formal requirements although GCSE Grades A* - C in Maths, English or Welsh and Technology will be helpful for the calculations, measurements and theory. (Applications from students with the Foundation or Intermediate Welsh Baccalaureate are also welcomed).

Salary ranges

(This is a guide to the average salary a fully qualified and experienced person might expect to get.)

£20,500 - £25,000

Progression routes

Apprentices study towards NVQ Level 2 with on and off the job training.

After a few years' experience, surface preparation operatives often progress towards a supervisory role and an NVQ in Occupational Work Supervision is also available.

More information is available from the Resin Flooring Association at: www.ferfa.org.uk