Hiring and Sponsoring Plasterers (SOC Code 5321)

Plasterers, classified under SOC Code 5321, are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the application and finishing of plasterboard and plasterwork in various construction projects. Their expertise is crucial for creating smooth, durable surfaces in both residential and commercial properties. With ongoing construction and renovation activities across the UK, the demand for skilled plasterers remains high. This guide will assist HR professionals in hiring and sponsoring plasterers under the UK’s immigration system.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Select appropriate plasterboard or dry lining panels.
  • Cut panels to required sizes and install them on ceilings and walls.
  • Mix plaster to the desired consistency or oversee the mixing process.
  • Apply and smooth one or more coats of plaster to create a finished surface.
  • Utilize hand tools or mechanical spray equipment for application.
  • Pour liquid plaster into molds to create ornamental plasterwork.
  • Measure, cut, install, and secure plasterboard and ornamental plasterwork.
  • Seal joints between boards and finish surfaces for a polished look.
  • Check surface level using various tools such as line, spirit level, and straight edge.

As the construction industry evolves and expands, the role of plasterers remains vital, making it essential for employers to attract and retain skilled professionals in this field.

What is SOC Code 3411 for Plasterers?

SOC Code 5321 refers to plasterers who specialize in the application and finishing of plaster and plasterboard. Their responsibilities can include:

• Selecting materials: Choosing appropriate plasterboard or dry lining panels based on project specifications.
• Cutting and fixing: Cutting panels to required size and securely fixing them to ceilings and walls.
• Mixing plaster: Mixing or directing the mixing of plaster to achieve the desired consistency for application.
• Applying plaster: Applying and smoothing one or more coats of plaster to create a finished surface, utilizing hand tools or mechanical sprayers.
• Casting ornamental work: Pouring liquid plaster into molds to create ornamental plasterwork.
• Installation: Measuring, cutting, installing, and securing plasterboard and ornamental plasterwork to walls and ceilings.
• Sealing joints: Covering and sealing joints between boards to ensure a seamless finish.
• Checking levels: Verifying surface level using tools such as lines, spirit levels, and straight edges.

Plasterers play a vital role in construction and renovation, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity in building projects.

Eligibility to Hire Plasterers (SOC Code 3411)

1. Job Requirements

Plasterers seeking employment must demonstrate their technical skills and meet certain qualifications or experience criteria. These may include:

• Experience: Proven experience in plastering, with an emphasis on working with plasterboard, dry lining panels, and various plaster types.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in measuring, cutting, and installing plasterboard, as well as applying and smoothing multiple coats of plaster to achieve a finished surface.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to check surface levels using appropriate tools such as lines, spirit levels, and straight edges, ensuring high-quality workmanship.
• Tools Knowledge: Comfortable using hand tools and mechanical spray equipment for plaster application and ornamental plasterwork casting.
• Problem-Solving Ability: Capability to select appropriate materials and methods for varying project requirements, ensuring efficiency and quality.

Applicants should ensure their experience and skills align with SOC Code 5321 and meet the expectations outlined for the role.

1. Salary Thresholds
2. Use the Minimum Salary Calculator to ensure your salary offer meets immigration requirements.

Sponsoring Plasterers: A Step-by-Step Guide for HR Professionals

Once you’ve confirmed that the role and candidate meet the eligibility requirements, follow this step-by-step guide to sponsoring Plasterers under SOC Code 5321.

Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor Licence

Before hiring non-UK Plasterers, your company or institution must obtain a sponsor licence. This licence enables you to legally sponsor overseas Plasterers under the Skilled Worker Visa program.

• Sponsor Licence Application: Submit documentation proving that your business is legitimate and has a genuine vacancy. Visit the sponsor licence application guide for more information. 
• Sponsor Licence Fees: Small businesses typically pay £574, while larger institutions pay £1,579. For more information, visit the sponsor licence fees guide. 
• Processing Time: Applications typically take up to 8 weeks, but using the Sponsor Licence Priority Service can reduce the processing time to 10 working days.

Once your sponsor licence is approved, you will receive a sponsor licence number, which allows you to assign Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS).

Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Once you have your sponsor licence, the next step is to assign a CoS to the Plasterers. This document provides key details about the job and the individual being sponsored.

• Defined vs Undefined CoS: Use a Defined CoS for Plasterers applying from outside the UK, and an Undefined CoS for those already in the UK. Learn more in the Defined & Undefined Certificates of Sponsorship guide. 
• Required Documents: Provide details such as the Plasterers’s portfolio, passport and job offer. Refer to Documents Required for Certificate of Sponsorship for a full list of necessary documents.

Step 3: Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa

Once the CoS is issued, the Plasterers can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa.

• Visa Fees: Fees vary depending on the role and visa length—use the visa fees calculator to estimate the costs. 
• Immigration Skills Charge: Employers are required to pay this charge as part of sponsoring non-UK workers. This is separate from visa fees.

Conducting a Right to Work Check for Plasterers

Before the Plasterers begins working, you must conduct a right to work check to ensure they are legally allowed to work in the UK.

• Manual Right to Work Check: Verify original documents such as the Plasterers’s passport and visa. 
• Online Right to Work Check: If the Plasterers holds an eVisa, you can use the UK government’s online system to verify their right-to-work status.

For more details on how to perform these checks, see the right to work check guide.

Post-Hiring Responsibilities and Compliance

1. Record-Keeping and Reporting  
2. • Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of the Plasterers’s employment details, salary and contact information. 
   • Reporting Changes: Report any significant changes to the Plasterers’s role—such as promotions or salary increases—via the Sponsor Management System (SMS).
3. Sponsor Licence Duties and Compliance
4. Failure to comply with your sponsor licence duties can result in penalties or sponsor licence revocation, impacting your ability to sponsor future Plastererss.

How Borderless Can Help with Sponsoring Plasterers

Sponsoring Plasterers under SOC Code 5321 can be a complex process, but Borderless can simplify it for you. We offer comprehensive support to help you manage the entire sponsorship process.

End-to-End Sponsorship Support

At Borderless, we assist with:

• Sponsor Licence Application: Guiding you through the application process and ensuring all required documents are submitted correctly. 
• Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment: Streamlining the CoS process to make hiring easier. 
• Compliance Management: Helping you stay compliant with immigration laws to avoid penalties.

If you need assistance with hiring or sponsoring Plasterers, get in touch for personalised support.

Conclusion

Hiring and sponsoring Plasterers under SOC Code 5321 can be a rewarding way to enrich the cultural landscape of your organisation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully navigate the sponsorship process while ensuring compliance with UK immigration laws.

For further guidance, Borderless is ready to assist you with all your sponsorship needs. Contact us for expert advice.