How much does a drywall installer make?

In the U.S., pay may differ with experience and skill, sought-after certificates or licenses, the employer or industry, and location. More complex tasks, added responsibility, and hours worked can also change earnings.

Apply plasterboard or other wallboard to ceilings or interior walls of buildings. Apply or mount acoustical tiles or blocks, strips, or sheets of shock-absorbing materials to ceilings and walls of buildings to reduce or reflect sound. Materials may be of decorative quality. Includes lathers who fasten wooden, metal, or rockboard lath to walls, ceilings, or partitions of buildings to provide support base for plaster, fireproofing, or acoustical material. Excludes “Carpenters” (47-2031), “Carpet Installers” (47-2041), and “Tile and Stone Setters” (47-2044).

What's a typical day like?

They read plans, measure and cut panels, then fasten drywall or ceiling tiles to wall and ceiling frames. They may use lifts to raise panels, trim edges, and work with finishers who cover the seams.

In the U.S., you can start without a formal school credential and learn on the job, often on less-visible areas. A high-school diploma is usually needed for a 2–4-year apprenticeship that combines job training and classes.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

Some drywall installers wear stilts—like tall leg extensions—so they can move around and use tools overhead.