Drywall Installer

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Work Tasks

• Put up drywall in buildings
• Read blueprints
• Measure and cut pieces to fit around doors, windows, electric outlets, air-conditioners, and plumbing
• Fill joints between the drywall panels and sand the surface to make it smooth
• Work indoors for construction companies, contractors, and companies that build pre-made or mobile homes
• Work with drywall panels, blueprints, measuring and marking tools, hand tools, ladders, scaffolds, screws, nails, and glue

Salary, Size & Growth

• $42,500 average per year ($20.50 per hour)
• A medium occupation (100,000 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.3% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: A high school diploma and an apprenticeship in drywall installation
• Skills/Courses: courses in applied math, English, wood shop, metal shop, blueprint reading, and mechanical drawing; must be able to measure, cut, and install materials
• Certification/Licensing: Certification is needed to handle asbestos, lead, or other hazardous materials, or to enter confined spaces or climb scaffolds.