Tapers
SOC Code: 47-2082Also known as:
Drywall Finisher, Drywall Mechanic, Drywall Taper, Finisher, Sheet Rock Taper
Median Annual Salary
$64,700
+0.1% growth (2024-2034)
1K
Openings/Year
16K
Current Jobs
What Tapers Do
Seal joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare wall surface for painting or papering.
💰 Salary
$64,700
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+0.1%
Little or no change
🎓 Education
No formal educational credential
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
1K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
15,600
Projected Employment (2034)
15,600
Related Careers
Cement masons and concrete finishers
$54,660 •
+1.8% growth
Drywall and ceiling tile installers
$58,140 •
+4.2% growth
Insulation workers, floor, ceiling, and wall
$48,680 •
+3.8% growth
Insulation workers, mechanical
$57,250 •
+4.7% growth
Plasterers and stucco masons
$56,020 •
+4.1% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Speaking
Monitoring
Time Management
Critical Thinking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Spread sealing compound between boards or panels or over cracks, holes, nail heads, or screw heads, using trowels, broadknives, or spatulas.
- Press paper tape over joints to embed tape into sealing compound and to seal joints.
- Apply additional coats to fill in holes and make surfaces smooth.
- Seal joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare wall surfaces for painting or papering.
- Spread and smooth cementing material over tape, using trowels or floating machines to blend joints with wall surfaces.
- Sand or patch nicks or cracks in plasterboard or wallboard.
- Mix sealing compounds by hand or with portable electric mixers.
- Work on high ceilings, using scaffolding or other tools, such as stilts.
- Select the correct sealing compound or tape.
- Countersink nails or screws below surfaces of walls before applying sealing compounds, using hammers or screwdrivers.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
No formal educational credential
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tapers make?
The median annual salary for tapers is $64,700.
What education do tapers need?
Most tapers positions require a no formal educational credential.
Is becoming tapers a good career choice?
Tapers is projected to see +0.1% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 1,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for tapers?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to tapers?
Tapers may also be known as: Drywall Finisher, Drywall Mechanic, Drywall Taper, Finisher, Sheet Rock Taper, Spackler, Taper, Wall Taper.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.