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Taper Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Taper Finisher 1

Phoenix, AZ

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Since 1956, E&K has been uncompromising in the commitment to deliver the highest quality products and services our clients demand, anywhere they need them. Today, we're one of the largest interior ...

Taper Finisher 1

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Since 1956, E&K has been uncompromising in the commitment to deliver the highest quality products and services our clients demand, anywhere they need them. Today, we're one of the largest interior ...

Taper Finisher 1

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Since 1956, E&K has been uncompromising in the commitment to deliver the highest quality products and services our clients demand, anywhere they need them. Today, we're one of the largest interior ...

Taper Finisher (New Mexico)

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Since 1956, E&K has been uncompromising in the commitment to deliver the highest quality products and services our clients demand, anywhere they need them. Today, we're one of the largest interior ...

Taper Finisher (New Mexico)

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Since 1956, E&K has been uncompromising in the commitment to deliver the highest quality products and services our clients demand, anywhere they need them. Today, we're one of the largest interior ...

Drywall Framer/Taper, Door or Acoustical Ceiling Installer We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Tradesperson to join our construction team. In this role, you will be responsible for framing ...

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Taper information

See Arizona salary details

$15

$22

$33

How much do taper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for taper in Arizona is $22.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a taper?

Tapers are skilled tradespeople who prepare walls and ceilings for painting or finishing by applying tape and joint compound to seams between sheets of drywall. They smooth out surfaces and ensure that all joints, holes, and imperfections are covered, resulting in a seamless finish. Their work is crucial in the construction and remodeling of buildings, as it creates a smooth, even surface for final decoration. Tapers often work with drywall installers and may also sand, patch, and texture surfaces as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a taper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Taper, you need expertise in drywall installation, surface preparation, and joint finishing, typically gained through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. Familiarity with tools like taping knives, mud pans, sanding machines, and sometimes stilts is essential, along with knowledge of safety protocols. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality, seamless wall finishes and contribute to the overall success and safety of construction projects.

What are common challenges a taper might face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Tapers often encounter challenges such as working with uneven surfaces, tight project deadlines, and coordinating with other trades on busy construction sites. To address these, it's important to maintain strong attention to detail, communicate proactively with team members, and use the right tools and techniques for surface preparation and finishing. Staying organized and adaptable helps ensure high-quality results, even when schedules change or unexpected issues arise.

What is the difference between Taper vs Finisher?

AspectTaperFinisher
Primary RolePrepares surfaces by gradually reducing material thickness or applying initial layersCompletes the final surface, smoothing, and finishing details
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plantsConstruction sites, renovation projects
CertificationsMay require safety and skill certificationsSimilar certifications, with focus on finishing techniques

While both Taper and Finisher roles are involved in surface preparation and finishing, Tapers focus on initial surface preparation and material application, whereas Finishers handle the final smoothing and detailing. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job role within construction and manufacturing industries.

How do you become a taper?

To become a taper, you typically need experience in hair or beard styling, knowledge of hair products, and good attention to detail. Many tapers learn through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, and some may pursue cosmetology or barbering licenses depending on local regulations.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Taper jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Taper job openings:

Infographic showing various Taper job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,530 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Journeyman Drywall taper/finisher

Tepcon Construction

Tempe, AZ โ€ข On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Commercial Journeyman Drywall TAPER/FINISHER
Position Reports To: Operations Manager FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt (OT Eligible)
Directly Supervises: N/A Work Classification: Regular Full-Time
Days/Hours: M-F and as Required Group Classification: Field
to Meet Project Deadlines
Purpose of Position: Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction projects, specifically a journeyman-level Taper/ Drywall Finisher.
Primary Position Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Good communication skills - This person will interact with busy facility managers/engineers and will need to communicate concisely.
  • Ability to work flexible hours - We are often required to work off hours to accommodate our clients.
  • Organizational / Prioritization skills - This is a fast-paced environment, this individual must be able to organize and prioritize work and job site.
  • Ability to follow thru - This person may be required to close-out a project(s) and must be able to follow thru with inspectors and subcontractors to close the project to the clients' satisfaction and in a timely manner.

Skills:
  • Journeyman taper/finisher with framing and painting experience
  • Painter (Brush/Roll/Masking/Prep)
  • Drywall Finishing (Hang/Tape/Texture/ Level 5)
  • Metal Stud Framing (Minor)

required Demonstrated technical competencies to include:
  • Drywall taping/ finisher 3 years
  • Knowledge of tools, equipment, and materials common to the carpentry trade
  • Ability to follow established safety rules and regulations and maintain a safe and clean environment
  • Must be able to measure accurately and calculate dimensions, as well as read blueprints
  • Ability to exert heavy physical effort, handling average weight objects up to 80 pounds

Skills and experience:
  • Experience in commercial, occupied environments a must
  • Ability to work in occupied, professional environments
  • Maintain records, document actions and present written progress reports
  • Cleans equipment, shop area, and work site area
  • Must be able to pass a background check and drug test as this is a safety-sensitive position
  • Must be able to work nights and days

Basic expertise/knowledge of following fields is encouraged:
  • Electrical
  • HVAC
  • Plumbing
  • Flooring (Carpet/VCT/Tile)
  • Ceiling Tile/ Grid Repair

required Licenses/certifications/equipment:
  • OSHA 10
  • AZ Driver's License
  • Must have own tools and truck

Objectives or Goals to Measure Performance:
  • Integrate Core Values: Respect, Teamwork, Safety
  • Maintain a productive workflow
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and professional work site
  • Provide quality work product
  • Improve personal professional growth and education

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice as the needs of the team or company change.