Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
What is a Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer?
Drywall and ceiling tile installers are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation and finishing of drywall panels and ceiling tiles. Their primary role is to construct interior walls and ceilings in various types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial facilities. They work with materials such as gypsum boards, plaster, and ceiling tiles to create structures that provide both functional and aesthetic benefits. These installers measure, cut, and fit the materials, ensuring that they are aligned and secured properly. After installation, they may also apply finishing touches, including taping, mudding, and sanding the joints between drywall panels to achieve a smooth surface suitable for painting or other finishes. Effective communication and teamwork with other construction professionals are essential, as well as a strong understanding of building codes and safety regulations to ensure that installations meet quality standards and are completed within project timelines.
Tasks
- Read blueprints or other specifications to determine methods of installation, work procedures, or material or tool requirements.
- Measure and mark surfaces to lay out work, according to blueprints or drawings, using tape measures, straightedges or squares, and marking devices.
- Fit and fasten wallboard or drywall into position on wood or metal frameworks, using glue, nails, or screws.
- Measure and cut openings in panels or tiles for electrical outlets, windows, vents, plumbing, or other fixtures, using keyhole saws or other cutting tools.
- Assemble or install metal framing or decorative trim for windows, doorways, or vents.
Technology Skills
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Word processing software
- Microsoft Word
- Wilhelm Publishing Threshold
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Project management software
- Construction Software Center EasyEst
- DevWave Estimate Works
- On Center Quick Bid
- Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal
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Accounting software
- Job costing software
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Optical character reader OCR or scanning software
- Logic Group Scanner Digitizing Software
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Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
Tools Used
- Putty knives
- Trowels
- Hand sprayers
- Lifts
- Saws
Knowledge
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Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Skills
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Abilities
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Extent Flexibility
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Trunk Strength
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Less than high school diploma
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
Work Activities
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Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Detailed Work Activities
- Review blueprints or specifications to determine work requirements.
- Mark reference points on construction materials.
- Measure materials or objects for installation or assembly.
- Install building fixtures.
- Cut openings in existing structures.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$36730.0 - $103310.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.