Concrete Finisher (Betonbauer)
This page describes a Concrete Finisher role on Germany-based projects where onboarding can be handled in English. The job is practical and quality-driven: you are paid for accuracy, pace, and clean finishing — not for improvisation.
Pay and schedule (gross)
Germany applies statutory pay floors. For 2026, the general minimum wage is €13.90 gross/hour from 01 January 2026. Sector-specific minimums or premiums may apply depending on the project and contract.
Typical working pattern (project-based)
- Full-time schedules on active sites (start times depend on site logistics).
- Timekeeping via foreman reporting and/or timesheets.
- Overtime, weekend work, and allowances depend on the project rules and contract.
- Safety briefings are mandatory; PPE compliance is non-negotiable.
Note: figures above are presented as gross. Net pay depends on taxation, social security, and your personal situation.
Role snapshot
A Concrete Finisher is judged by surface quality, consistency, and the ability to keep pace without creating defects. You will work closely with the crew to coordinate pours, finishing windows, and curing requirements.
What you will do (hands-on)
- Prepare work zones and confirm levels, edges, and pour readiness with the foreman.
- Place, level, screed, and finish concrete surfaces (slabs, floors, ramps, pads).
- Use hand tools and/or power trowels to achieve the required finish and flatness.
- Execute joints/edges, patch minor defects, and protect the surface during curing.
- Maintain clean tools and a controlled work area to prevent contamination and rework.
Tools you should know
Screeds (manual/laser), floats, trowels, edgers, joint tools, bull float, power trowel (where applicable), levels/laser, hand grinders for minor corrections, and basic measuring tools.
Requirements (detailed, non-template)
We screen for real finishing experience. The goal is to avoid “CV inflation” and match candidates to the correct site phase.
- Must have
- Documented concrete finishing experience (projects, dates, tasks, tools) and the ability to work to tolerance.
- A complete CV in English (PDF preferred). Without a CV, screening does not start.
- Safety discipline: PPE usage, clean workflow, and respect for restricted zones and permits.
- Strong advantages
- Power trowel familiarity (where used) and confidence in timing: finishing windows, curing protection, defect prevention.
- Basic German (A1–A2) for safety briefings and signage; clear English is acceptable for onboarding.
- Evidence of quality outcomes: photos (optional), supervisor references (optional), or repeat projects.
- What usually causes rejection
- Missing CV, vague experience (“worked on sites” without tasks), or unrealistic claims without proof.
- Unsafe attitude (“shortcuts”), poor punctuality, or inability to follow a foreman’s sequence.
Documents to prepare
- CV in English (PDF) + phone/email
- Passport scan + current location (country/city)
- Certificates/licences if relevant (equipment, safety training)
- Short project list: locations, dates, surfaces, tools used, finish type
Short candidate portrait
You are a practical finisher who can keep quality stable even when the site is noisy, rushed, and changing. You can take instructions, ask the right clarifying questions, and leave behind surfaces that do not need “hero fixes.”
We like candidates who:
- Understand finishing timing (not only tools): when to start, when to stop, and what to protect.
- Work clean: edges, joints, and transitions are treated as part of the job, not as “extras.”
- Communicate early if something is off (levels, formwork, access, curing risk).
- Respect safety and process — rework is more expensive than speed.
A week on site (role story)
On a typical project week, the work starts before the pour: confirming levels, edges, and access so the crew does not lose the finishing window. The strongest finishers stay calm under pressure — they keep the surface consistent, protect curing zones, and leave the site with a “clean handover” mindset.
Working in Germany via a Polish company (practical terms)
Many Germany projects are delivered with teams organized by an employer in Poland. This is a compliance-heavy setup: documentation and process matter as much as craft.
- Employment structure: you work under an agreed contract with the Polish employer and are assigned to Germany-based projects.
- Posting documentation: the employer typically arranges the core documents needed for legal work organization (case-specific).
- Pay compliance: Germany minimum wage rules apply as a floor; sector/project premiums may raise the effective rate.
- Timekeeping: recorded hours and clear reporting are essential; timesheets are not “paperwork” — they are payroll proof.
- Logistics: accommodation and travel rules depend on the project; always clarify before departure.
- On-site expectations: PPE, safety briefings, and foreman instructions are mandatory on German sites.
This is general operational information, not legal advice. Your exact route depends on nationality, documents, and the project structure.
Work authorization (non-EU) — reality check
English onboarding helps, but it does not replace legal eligibility. Non-EU candidates usually need a suitable pathway and documents that match the role. Skilled profiles are typically more realistic than entry-level profiles.
- Skilled worker route (§18a): more realistic if your vocational qualification can be recognized and your profile fits the role.
- Project fit matters: experience, tool competence, and documentation can make the difference in selection.
- German basics help: A1–A2 improves safety and day-to-day coordination, even if English is used for onboarding.
How to apply (structured)
- Create/Upload your CV: mavial.pl/en/cv.html
- Send your profile via the contact page: mavial.pl/kontakt.html
- We review fit, verify documents, and contact you if the profile matches active demand.
No CV — no review. This keeps screening fair and prevents wasted processing time.
FAQ (Concrete Finisher — Germany projects)
These answers are written specifically for this role so the page does not read like a copy-paste template.
What is the minimum pay I should expect in Germany in 2026?
As a floor, Germany’s statutory minimum wage from 01 January 2026 is €13.90 gross per hour. Project/sector rules may require higher effective rates.
Do you accept candidates without a CV?
No. A complete CV in English is mandatory. Without it, we do not start screening.
Is power trowel experience required?
Not always, but it is a strong advantage. If you have it, list the exact equipment and the surface types you finished (floors, slabs, industrial zones).
What should I include in my CV to prove finishing experience?
Concrete surfaces you worked on, finishing methods (screeding, edging, joints), tools used, project locations/dates, and the type of quality/tolerance expected.
Do I need German language skills?
English onboarding is possible, but basic German (A1–A2) helps with safety briefings, signage, and daily coordination.
How fast is the process after I apply?
If your CV matches current demand, we proceed to document verification and next steps. If the profile does not fit active projects, response may not be issued.
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