Roofers
SOC Code: 47-2181Also known as:
Aluminum Shingle Roofer, Asbestos Shingle Roofer, Commercial Roofer, Commercial Roofing Tech (Commercial Roofing Technician), Composition Roofer
Median Annual Salary
$50,970
+5.9% growth (2024-2034)
13K
Openings/Year
167K
Current Jobs
What Roofers Do
Cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, or related materials. May spray roofs, sidings, and walls with material to bind, seal, insulate, or soundproof sections of structures.
💰 Salary
$50,970
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+5.9%
Faster than average
🎓 Education
No formal educational credential
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
13K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
166,700
Projected Employment (2034)
176,500
Related Careers
Floor layers, except carpet, wood, and hard tiles
$54,340 •
+9.5% growth
Drywall and ceiling tile installers
$58,140 •
+4.2% growth
Insulation workers, floor, ceiling, and wall
$48,680 •
+3.8% growth
Plasterers and stucco masons
$56,020 •
+4.1% growth
Helpers--roofers
$40,590 •
+5.7% growth
Top Skills Required
Coordination
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Monitoring
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Inspect problem roofs to determine the best repair procedures.
- Remove snow, water, or debris from roofs prior to applying roofing materials.
- Set up scaffolding to provide safe access to roofs.
- Estimate materials and labor required to complete roofing jobs.
- Cement or nail flashing strips of metal or shingle over joints to make them watertight.
- Install partially overlapping layers of material over roof insulation surfaces, using chalk lines, gauges on shingling hatchets, or lines on shingles.
- Cut felt, shingles, or strips of flashing to fit angles formed by walls, vents, or intersecting roof surfaces.
- Apply plastic coatings, membranes, fiberglass, or felt over sloped roofs before applying shingles.
- Install, repair, or replace single-ply roofing systems, using waterproof sheet materials such as modified plastics, elastomeric, or other asphaltic compositions.
- Attach roofing paper to roofs in overlapping strips to form bases for other materials.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
No formal educational credential
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Roofers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a roofers:
Roofer
37 degrees awarded •
2 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Roofers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become roofers.
| # | College | Location | Related Degrees | Repit Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Centralia College | Centralia, WA | 18 | C+ |
| 2 | Clover Park Technical College | Lakewood, WA | 19 | C |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do roofers make?
The median annual salary for roofers is $50,970.
What education do roofers need?
Most roofers positions require a no formal educational credential.
Common degree programs include Roofer.
Is becoming roofers a good career choice?
Roofers is projected to see +5.9% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 12,700 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for roofers?
Top colleges for aspiring roofers include
Centralia College, Clover Park Technical College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to roofers?
Roofers may also be known as: Aluminum Shingle Roofer, Asbestos Shingle Roofer, Commercial Roofer, Commercial Roofing Tech (Commercial Roofing Technician), Composition Roofer, Cool Roofing Installer, Gravel Roofer, Gutter Installer, Gypsum Roofer, Hot Tar Roofer, Industrial Roofer, Journeyman Roofer, Metal Roofer, Metal Roofing Mechanic, Metal Worker, Residential Roofer, Roof Mechanic, Roof Service Technician, Roof Tile Layer, Roofer.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.