Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers

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Career Profile

Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers

What they do

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.

Also Called: Ceiling Installer, Dry Wall Installer, Drywall Finisher, Drywall Hanger, Drywall Installer, Drywall Mechanic, Drywaller, Exterior Interior Specialist, Metal Framer, Metal Stud Framer, Ceiling Installer, Dry Wall Installer, Drywall Finisher, Drywall Hanger, Drywall Installer, Drywall Mechanic, Drywaller, Exterior Interior Specialist, Metal Framer, Metal Stud Framer

Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX Employment Data

*State data provided by O*NET & BLS
Compare State Data      Compare Metro Area Data   
$35,840
Starting Salary (2025)
$48,220
Median Salary (2025)
4.2%
Projected Job Growth
1,870
TX Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

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.
Hang drywall panels on metal frameworks of walls and ceilings in offices, schools, or other large buildings, using lifts or hoists to adjust panel heights, when necessary.
Cut and screw together metal channels to make floor or ceiling frames, according to plans for the location of rooms or hallways.
Measure and cut openings in panels or tiles for electrical outlets, windows, vents, plumbing, or other fixtures, using keyhole saws or other cutting tools.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Cooperation
Integrity
Achievement/Effort
Self-Control

What key skills are needed for this job?

Critical Thinking
Coordination
Judgment and Decision Making
Time Management
Monitoring
Speaking

Expected Knowledge

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.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Common Activities

Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 2

Some Preparation Needed

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Less than high school 42%
  • High school diploma 24%
  • Post-secondary certificate 19%
  • Some college 10%
  • Bachelor's degree 5%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Related Careers

Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Tapers
Sheet Metal Workers
Carpenters
Plasterers and Stucco Masons

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.