How much does a taper make?

Indoors, tapers press tape over drywall seams, spread joint compound with a broad knife, then add coats and sand rough spots smooth. For high ceilings, they may work on scaffolding or stilts.

Did you know? Some U.S. tapers work on high ceilings using stilts—tools strapped to their legs—while smoothing drywall.

There’s no set starting age: federal rules bar 14- and 15-year-olds from construction work and restrict hazardous jobs to adults. Most learn as helpers on the job; apprenticeships typically require a high-school diploma or equivalent and last 2–4 years.

School needed: High school plus some training

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

Why does pay differ?

In the United States, experienced, skilled tapers may earn more, and pay differs by employer or industry and by location. The hours they work—and overtime or shift premiums—can also change their pay.