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 Poster
Paper Hanger
Paperhanger
Wallpaper Hanger
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,020. 25th percentile: U.S. $40,930. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,260. 75th percentile: U.S. $58,470. 90th percentile: U.S. $69,470. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
