Paperhangers
Cover interior walls or ceilings of rooms with decorative wallpaper or fabric, or attach advertising posters on surfaces such as walls and billboards. May remove old materials or prepare surfaces to be papered.
SOC: 47-2142.00
Common Job Titles
Bill PosterPaper HangerPaperhangerWallpaper Hanger
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform wallpaper and fabric application on interior walls and ceilings using hand tools and specialized equipment such as smoothing brushes, seam rollers, and paste brushes.Developing
- Hands-onExecute surface preparation and removal of old materials using wallpaper steamers, scrapers, and drywall power sanders to ensure proper adhesion.Developing
- KnowledgeCalculate material quantities and surface measurements using measuring tapes, laser levels, and length measuring counters to minimize waste.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate adhesive paste and application equipment on pasting boards and tables, adjusting consistency and coverage for optimal results.Developing
- KnowledgeAssess surface conditions and material compatibility before beginning installation to determine appropriate preparation methods.Developing
- Hands-onCoordinate pattern matching and alignment across multiple wall surfaces using straightedges, plumb lines, and chalk line markers to maintain visual continuity.Developing
- MindsetEngage with clients to understand design preferences and project requirements, demonstrating active listening and service orientation throughout the consultation process.Developing
- KnowledgeApply safety protocols and public safety standards when working on scaffolds, ladders, and elevated surfaces in residential and commercial settings.Developing
- KnowledgeDistinguish quality issues and defects in completed installations through systematic inspection of seams, bubbles, and alignment to ensure customer satisfaction.Developing
- KnowledgeApply scheduling and time management principles when coordinating multiple projects and organizing work activities to meet deadlines.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Paperhangers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
1,520
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,020 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $69,470 |
| Workers on average earn | $51,900 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
- Building and Construction3.5/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Mechanical3.0/5
- Public Safety and Security3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Google DocsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
A-Systems JobViewConstruction Software Center EasyEstCorel PainterElectronic data interchange EDI softwareOn Center Quick BidPlanSwiftTurtle Creek Software Goldenseal
Tools & Equipment
Aluminum straightedgesBorder holdupsBreak off knivesBroad knivesChalk line markersDouble cutting wallpaper knivesDrywall power sandersElectric bucket heaters