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Taper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Pridgeon & Clay Inc

Lead Technician

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Use snap calipers, micrometers, height gages, protractors, attribute gates, variable gages, taper gages, and/or ring gages to ensure quality production per the Control Plan. * Learn where to find and ...

Pridgeon & Clay

Automatic Press Operator

Grand Rapids, MI

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Use snap calipers, micrometers, height gages, protractors, attribute gates, variable gages, taper gages, and/or ring gages to ensure quality production per the Control Plan. * Learn where to find and ...

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Showing results 21-29

All JobsTaper JobsTaper Jobs in Michigan

Taper information

See Michigan salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do taper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for taper in Michigan is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $26.39 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 are popular job titles related to Taper jobs in Michigan?

For Taper jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Taper jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Taper jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Taper jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Taper job openings:

Taper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Taper job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 16% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,454 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Manufacturing Tech - Shipping & Receiving - 1st Shift (6 am - 2:30 pm M-Fri)

Dowding Industries Inc

Eaton Rapids, MI

$16 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Us
Since 1965, Dowding has grown from a tool and die manufacturer to a leading edge, world-class manufacturer of metal stampings, fabrication, precision machined components, and assemblies. We capitalize on our rich manufacturing history and utilize Michigan's engineering expertise to provide our customers the competitive advantage needed in today's markets. At Dowding Industries, we utilize only the latest advanced processing methods and assembly technologies to deliver tomorrow's solutions, today. Producing parts for automotive, railcar, defense and infrastructure sectors as well, we are helping bring Michigan back to the forefront of manufacturing! Dowding Industries is firmly committed to providing products and services which in all ways meet or exceed our customer's requirements for delivery, quality and value.
Position Summary
Operation of various manufacturing machines. Must be comfortable with various operations and assignments or tasks. These may range from general housekeeping to operation of CNC milling and laser cutting machinery, press brakes, forming or straightening equipment, shipping and receiving activities, etc. Will be required to complete documentation necessary for recording daily parts produced, scrap, SPC, O.E.E., etc. Must demonstrate the ability to use various measuring devices such as micrometers, depth micrometers, calipers, and hole measuring devices. I.e. -go no go pins, taper and bore gauges, etc. Must be able to read and interpret “Basic” blue prints drawings, set-up instructions, and inspection instructions, etc.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate and maintain various tools and machinery.
  • Meet or exceed production requirements targeting 85% OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness)
  • Be part of continuous improvement efforts that show an impact with increased production rates and lowered scrap volumes within work area.
  • Demonstrate basic skills in machine shop mathematics and blue print reading and interpolation.
  • Maintain a clean and well-organized work area.
  • Complete quality, manufacturing O.E.E., and tracking paperwork
  • Works with minimal supervision and direction.
  • Maintain working area clean and organized at all times. This includes support of 5-S program.
  • Responsible for all tools and equipment used in responsible cell. This will include any of the daily maintenance activities necessary to operate Laser machinery.
  • Coordinate personal training, breaks, etc., for minimal production interruption.
  • Works closely with “Safety Coordinator” in the use of machine, material handling equipment, etc.
  • Must be able to manage steel components up to 50lbs.
  • Works from simple drawings, process sheets, inspection and or customer specifications, and instructions from supervisor.
  • Perform all inspection requirements. May include SPC charting.
  • Operate machines or tooling as required and trained.
  • Responsible for maintaining calibrated gauges utilized in the cell.
  • Assists in training and instruction of other employees as requested.
  • Participates in “continuous improvement” activities within the department.
  • Will be required to move material to and from the cell. This will require training and certification for driving a Hi-Lo and operating overhead crane. Basic inspection skills for Hi-Lo and overhead crane will be required.
  • Assemble boxes or containers as necessary for packaging of parts. Packing, weigh counting, labeling, etc.
  • Other duties as needed/assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule.
  • Overtime will be required from time to time.
  • Must have excellent communication skills.
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Basic blueprint reading skills required.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Willingness to work in a team environment.
  • Able to complete forms neatly and accurately.
Physical Requirements
  • Standing, walking, lifting, pulling and pushing, carrying, grasping, reaching, stooping and crouching, color determination, near acuity, speaking, listening
Work Environment
  • This work position is required to work in a manufacturing environment facility.
  • While performing duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts; toxic or caustic chemicals and risk of electrical shock.
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles; extreme heat (non-weather) and vibration.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
Dowding Industries, Inc. Offers a Competitive Total Compensation Package
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage (including spouse or domestic partner and children)
  • Medical flexible spending account
  • Life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement program
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays

Dowding Industries Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, committed to the concept and practice of equal opportunity in all aspects of employment. We encourage qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds and experience to apply.

Apply