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Apprentice Tile Installer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Installation of Soft Tiles, Sheet Goods, Carpet and Carpet tiles. Installation of Trowel Finished ... Lead and/or mentor helpers and apprentices * Obtain knowledge and adhere to material disposal ...

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Apprentice Tile Installer information

What is the difference between Apprentice Tile Installer vs Tile Setter?

AspectApprentice Tile InstallerTile Setter
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certification programsHigh school diploma or equivalent, apprenticeship often required
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, residential and commercial projectsMore experienced work on similar sites, overseeing installation
Job RoleAssists and learns under supervision, performs basic tasksPerforms complete tile installation independently or with minimal supervision

In summary, an Apprentice Tile Installer is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while a Tile Setter is a fully qualified professional responsible for installing tiles independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for the responsibilities of a Tile Setter, who typically has more experience and certification.

How long does it take to become a tile installer?

Becoming an apprentice tile installer typically takes about 1 to 3 years, during which individuals learn skills such as cutting, layout, and installation techniques through on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Completing an apprenticeship program often leads to certification or journeyman status, enabling independent work and higher pay.

What apprenticeship gets paid the most?

In the field of tile installation, apprenticeships typically pay based on experience and progress, with higher wages earned as skills improve. Generally, apprentices in specialized or high-demand trades, such as commercial tile installation or those working in high-cost regions, tend to earn higher wages. Certifications and union memberships can also lead to increased pay during apprenticeship programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Tile Installer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Tile Installer, you need basic math skills, manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, tile cutters, measuring devices, and personal protective equipment is typically required, along with on-the-job training. Dependability, willingness to learn, and effective communication help you work efficiently in a team and adapt to job site requirements. These skills ensure precise tile installation, job site safety, and a strong foundation for career advancement in the trade.

What does an Apprentice Tile Installer do?

An Apprentice Tile Installer assists experienced tile installers with preparing surfaces, mixing adhesives, cutting tiles, and laying them in patterns for floors, walls, and other surfaces. Apprentices learn to use specialized tools, follow safety procedures, and understand different types of tiles and installation techniques. This entry-level position is focused on gaining hands-on experience and developing skills necessary to become a journeyman or professional tile installer.

Are tile installers in demand?

Tile installers are in steady demand due to ongoing construction and renovation projects in residential and commercial buildings. The job requires skills in cutting, laying, and sealing tiles, often with the use of specialized tools, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as the construction industry expands.

What can I expect during my first few months as an Apprentice Tile Installer?

As a new Apprentice Tile Installer, you'll spend your initial months learning essential skills on the job, such as surface preparation, mixing adhesives, and assisting with tile layout. You’ll typically work closely with experienced installers, observing proper techniques and gradually taking on more hands-on tasks. The work is often physically demanding, requiring attention to detail as you measure, cut, and fit tiles. Expect to work at a variety of job sites, including residential and commercial projects, and to collaborate daily with other tradespeople. This period is crucial for building foundational skills and gaining confidence in your abilities.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Among apprenticeship trades, electrical and plumbing apprenticeships tend to offer the highest wages, often increasing significantly with experience and certifications. Skilled trades such as HVAC, welding, and elevator installation also provide competitive pay during and after apprenticeship programs. Earnings vary by region, demand, and level of skill acquired during training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tile Installer jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Tile Installer jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Tile Installer job openings in Oregon as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Installer I - Specialty Finishes

Installer I - Specialty Finishes

Vigor, LLC

Portland, OR • On-site

$31.09/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Description
Who We Are
Vigor Marine Group is an established, innovative, integrated partner with a national footprint in marine maintenance and modernization, marine fabrication, and marine services.
With four shipyards, six dry docks, and more than 20,000 feet of pier space on or near U.S. Naval bases and at historic shipyards, our 2,500 dedicated employees across four states - from the Pacific Northwest to San Diego to Norfolk - personify the values of our company. Vigor Marine Group takes pride in being the employer of choice for our employees, who in turn take great pride in their contributions to the communities where they live and work, and to their nation - through their living wage jobs supporting their local economies, and through the world-class maritime and industrial services they provide to further our defense readiness and national security. For more information, visit vigor.net.
HOURLY RATE: $31.09
POSITION SUMMARY:
Installation of Quarry, Ceramic, porcelain and Mosaic Tiles. Installation of Soft Tiles, Sheet Goods, Carpet and Carpet tiles. Installation of Trowel Finished Epoxy Terrazzo, Colorflake and underlayments. Coordinate to mobilization and demobilizing job sites. Demolition of flooring and underlayments. Prepare and prime steel surface. Hand load materials aboard vessels and into necessary spaces. Good housekeeping of work site. Learn to practice and adhere to proper material disposal requirements.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
(This list is not intended to detail all aspects of the assigned work but is representative of the job's overall responsibilities.)
  • Safe work practice, wear PPE, adheres to safety rules and regulations.
  • Regularly install decking products of the following types: Hard Tiles, Soft Tiles(vinyl, rubber, etc.), Carpet, Sheet Goods, Trowel Finished Epoxy systems/Underlayments, and Colorflake systems
  • Learn all facets of our flooring installations
  • Keep work site clean and organized
  • Stock materials and tools throughout vessel according to job specifications
  • Lead and/or mentor helpers and apprentices
  • Obtain knowledge and adhere to material disposal process
  • Demolish decking materials, when needed

INTERPERSONAL CONTACTS:
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees
  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions regarding daily functions, safety rules and regulations and possible hazardous conditions.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Utilizes safe work practices in accordance with Job Hazard Analysis
  • Pays attention to details when taping, cutting in, around drains, walls, doorways and keeping product off customer owned equipment
  • Knowledge on how to use trowels, air chippers, needle guns, deck crawlers, grinders, wet saw, tile cutter, torch, floor scraper and floor buffing machines
  • Can repair in the field basic problems related to above mentioned tools
  • Understands cure times and recoat windows of products
  • Basic skill on proper installation of epoxy, urethane, polyaspartic and urethane sealers
  • Possess skill required to install cove base materials with a radius that is straight with no waves
  • Effectively communicate and work in a diverse industry/work force
  • Practice working smart, careful, productive, flexible and considerate
  • Self-motivational and some problem-solving skills
  • Shows a willingness and ability to learn and move forward.
  • Seeking people that are meticulous, patient, and are driven to learn all facets of our flooring installations.
  • Seeking individuals who possess a good attitude and are willing to learn and work smart.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
  • High School Diploma/GED or 10th grade education with 6 months to 2+ years equivalent industrial training and or equivalent industrial experience.
  • At least 2 years Installation experience in at least two types of flooring (Hard Tiles, Soft Tiles (vinyl, rubber, etc.), Carpet, Sheet Goods, Trowel Finished Epoxy systems/Underlayments, and Colorflake systems).
  • Forklift experience is a plus but not required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs.
  • Must be able to push and pull up to 60 lbs.
  • Require ability to stand and or walk on hard uneven surfaces for extensive periods of time.
  • At times work is performed in tight spaces in adverse temperatures.
  • Must be able to handle working on multiple levels of a vessel requiring up and down ladder wells throughout the workdays.
  • Wear a respirator when required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
May be exposed to excessive noise, welding gases and fumes, and varying weather conditions. Proper protective equipment will be provided as necessary.
This role is with a federally contracted employer and is subject to regulations that restrict employment to US Persons only (i.e. US Citizens, lawful permanent residents, legally recognized asylees and refugees, and persons protected under INA). Successful job candidates will be asked to provide documentation of their US Persons status.
Vigor Industrial LLC and its wholly owned subsidiaries are drug, smoke and vape-free workplaces. Prospective employees must pass a drug and alcohol test and background check as pre-employment screening.
Vigor Values
Vigor expects all employees to enhance the atmosphere in which they work by living the Vigor Values every day.
Truth: We seek the truth, and we speak the truthResponsibility: We act on what we know is rightEvolution: We seek mastery, and adapt to a changing worldLove: We care about the people we work with, and the world we live in
Vigor and its wholly owned subsidiaries are committed to inclusion and diversity by providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veterans, age, genetics, the presence of a physical or mental condition or disability that can be reasonably accommodated, or any other protected class under relevant laws in the locations we operate. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and can be requested with Vigor's Human Resources Department.
In addition to federal law requirements, Vigor complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination and non-retaliation in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, benefits, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.