Apply plasterboard or other wallboard to ceilings or interior walls of buildings. Apply or mount acoustical tiles or blocks, strips, or sheets of shock-absorbing materials to ceilings and walls of buildings to reduce or reflect sound. Materials may be of decorative quality. Includes lathers who fasten wooden, metal, or rockboard lath to walls, ceilings, or partitions of buildings to provide support base for plaster, fireproofing, or acoustical material.
SOC: 47-2081.00
Common Job Titles
Drywall Finisher
Drywall Hanger
Drywall Installer
Metal Framer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onExecute plasterboard and wallboard installation on interior walls and ceilings using drywall screw guns, lifts, and measuring tools in residential and commercial construction settings.
Developing
Hands-onPerform acoustical tile and shock-absorbing material installation on ceilings and walls to reduce sound reflection, following design specifications.
Developing
KnowledgeCalculate material quantities and cutting dimensions using mathematical formulas and measuring instruments to minimize waste on job sites.
Developing
Hands-onOperate specialized drywall tools and power equipment including routers, saws, sanders, and automatic taping tools while adhering to safety protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret building blueprints and technical specifications to determine layout, materials, and installation methods for wallboard and ceiling systems.
Developing
KnowledgeAssess surface quality and installation defects through visual inspection and quality control procedures to ensure compliance with building standards.
Developing
MindsetEngage in collaborative work coordination with construction teams communicating installation schedules, material needs, and safety concerns on active job sites.
Developing
Hands-onExecute finishing and taping procedures on drywall joints and seams using trowels, joint knives, and compound application techniques to achieve smooth surfaces.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of building codes and safety regulations when selecting materials, installing fire-rated assemblies, and implementing fall protection measures.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate problem-solving techniques for structural and installation challenges adapting methods for irregular surfaces, load-bearing requirements, and access constraints.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
82,900
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,810. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,880. 50th percentile: U.S. $58,140. 75th percentile: U.S. $72,660. 90th percentile: U.S. $101,380. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$37,810
10% of workers earn the following or more
$101,380
Workers on average earn
$62,810
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Building and Construction4.5/5
Mathematics3.5/5
Mechanical3.3/5
Public Safety and Security3.2/5
Administration and Management3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
