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ConstructionTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.

Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer

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.

Annual openings

168

Median wage

$61,780

Typical education

Education not reported

Growth 2026–2032

-1%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Education not reported

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Credential detail

Become a Skilled Trades Master Craftsman. Depending upon the trade, Skilled Trades Professionals can become Master Craftsmen through experience and additional credentials. Master Craftsmen earn more money and may supervise apprentices in the trade.

Experience detail

Work experience under the guidance (possibly as an apprentice) of a Skilled Tradesperson is expected.

Work-based learning

Build Colorado provides more information about this job.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsMay vary
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Trades
  • Construction

Automation exposure

High exposure

Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.

A typical day

  1. Measure and mark surfaces to lay out work, according to blueprints or drawings, using tape measures, straightedges or squares, and marking devices.
  2. Fit and fasten wallboard or drywall into position on wood or metal frameworks, using glue, nails, or screws.
  3. Measure and cut openings in panels or tiles for electrical outlets, windows, vents, plumbing, or other fixtures, using keyhole saws or other cutting tools.
  4. Read blueprints or other specifications to determine methods of installation, work procedures, or material or tool requirements.
  5. Inspect furrings, mechanical mountings, or masonry surfaces for plumbness and level, using spirit or water levels.
  6. 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.
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