How much does a taper make?

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.

Seal joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare wall surface for painting or papering.

What's a typical day like?

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.

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.

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

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

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