Tapers
Seal joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare wall surface for painting or papering.
SOC: 47-2082.00
Common Job Titles
- Drywall Finisher
- Drywall Taper
- Finisher
- Taper
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeApply building and construction principles to determine appropriate joint compound application and finishing methods for different wallboard types.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess quality of finished wall surfaces against construction specifications and customer expectations prior to final approval.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform joint sealing and finishing of wallboard surfaces using taping knives, trowels, and automatic taping tools in residential and commercial construction settings.Developing
- Hands-onOperate texture sprayers and hopper guns to apply finishing compounds on wall surfaces following project specifications.Developing
- KnowledgeIdentify surface imperfections and joint irregularities through visual inspection of plasterboard installations prior to finishing.Developing
- Hands-onExecute sanding and smoothing techniques using power sanders and hand tools to prepare walls for painting or papering.Developing
- KnowledgeEstimate material quantities and project timelines based on job specifications and surface area calculations.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate corner rollers and corner knives to achieve smooth, uniform joints on inside and outside corners.Developing
- MindsetEngage with construction team members and supervisors to coordinate taping schedules and ensure project quality standards.Developing
- Hands-onPerform mixing and preparation of joint compounds using mud mixing drills to achieve proper consistency and workability.Developing
- KnowledgeApply time management and work organization techniques to complete multiple taping projects efficiently while maintaining quality standards.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Tapers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
12,500
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,450. 25th percentile: U.S. $50,780. 50th percentile: U.S. $64,700. 75th percentile: U.S. $82,990. 90th percentile: U.S. $106,160. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $43,450 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $106,160 |
| Workers on average earn | $70,390 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Building and Construction4.0/5
- English Language2.6/5
- Education and Training2.5/5
- Customer and Personal Service2.5/5
- Mechanical2.4/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Microsoft Dynamics
- Microsoft Office software
Technology Skills
- Applied Computer Systems JOBPOWER
- Construction Software Center EasyEst
- DevWave Estimate Works
- On Center Quick Bid
- Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal
Tools & Equipment
- Air compressors
- Application brushes
- Automatic taping tools
- Banjo drywall tapers
- Corner knives
- Corner rollers
- Drywall knockdown knives
- Drywall mud mixers