Chicago-Taper
$53.05/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Chicago-Taper
$53.05/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Portland - Taper
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Portland - Taper
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Northern Ca. - Taper
Hayward, CA · On-site
$57.16/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Northern Ca. - Taper
Hayward, CA · On-site
$57.16/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Portland - Taper
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Portland - Taper
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Chicago-Taper
$53.05/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Chicago-Taper
$53.05/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Reno/Sparks - Taper
Sparks, NV · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Reno/Sparks - Taper
Sparks, NV · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Portland - Taper
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
Portland - Taper Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the ...
Portland - Taper
Wilsonville, OR · On-site
Portland - Taper Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Southern CA - Taper
$47.43/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Southern CA - Taper
$47.43/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Reno/Sparks - Taper
Sparks, NV · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Reno/Sparks - Taper
Sparks, NV · On-site
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Northern Ca. - Taper
$57.16/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Northern Ca. - Taper
$57.16/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Southern CA - Taper
La Puente, CA · On-site
$47.43/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Southern CA - Taper
La Puente, CA · On-site
$47.43/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Southern CA - Taper
$47.43/hr
Southern CA - Taper Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the ...
Southern CA - Taper
$47.43/hr
Southern CA - Taper Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the ...
Chicago-Taper
Melrose Park, IL · On-site
$53.05/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Chicago-Taper
Melrose Park, IL · On-site
$53.05/hr
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and ...
Chicago-Taper
$53.05/hr
Description Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary ...
Chicago-Taper
$53.05/hr
Description Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary ...
Tapers information
See salary details
$16.11 - $17.90
18% of jobs
$18.63 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$17.90 - $19.69
17% of jobs
The median wage is $21.26 / hr.
$19.69 - $21.48
17% of jobs
$21.48 - $23.27
7% of jobs
$23.27 - $25.07
3% of jobs
$25.07 - $26.86
2% of jobs
$26.86 - $28.65
6% of jobs
$29.43 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.65 - $30.44
9% of jobs
$30.44 - $32.23
7% of jobs
$32.23 - $34.03
6% of jobs
$34.03 - $35.82
6% of jobs
$16
$24
$35
How much do tapers jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for tapers in the United States is $24.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What jobs pay $400 an hour?
Tapers, especially those working in high-end construction or specialized industries like film or theater set design, can earn around $400 an hour with extensive experience and reputation. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and the ability to work on complex projects under tight deadlines.
What is the difference between Tapers vs Finishers?
| Aspect | Tapers | Finishers |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Apply joint compound and tape to seams and corners | Sand, smooth, and prepare surfaces for painting or finishing |
| Skills & Certifications | Knowledge of drywall installation, basic tools, safety procedures | Attention to detail, sanding skills, finishing techniques |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, drywall installation projects | Interior spaces, post-drywall installation |
| Industry Usage | Commonly used in drywall and construction projects | Used in painting, remodeling, and finishing jobs |
While Tapers focus on applying joint compound and tape to drywall seams, Finishers are responsible for sanding and smoothing surfaces to achieve a polished look. Both roles are essential in drywall installation and finishing, often working sequentially to prepare walls for painting or decoration.
What is a taper job?
A taper job involves applying a thin layer of material, such as paint, adhesive, or sealant, to surfaces to create a smooth finish or prevent leaks. Tapers often work in construction, painting, or flooring, using tools like trowels or brushes, and may require knowledge of surface preparation and safety procedures.
What are some common challenges Tapers face on construction sites, and how can they be managed?
Tapers often encounter challenges such as working with uneven surfaces, tight project deadlines, and maintaining consistent quality across large areas. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective time management, and close coordination with drywall installers and other trades. Using the right tools and materials, as well as keeping up with best practices in finishing techniques, can help ensure smooth results and reduce the need for rework. Additionally, open communication with site supervisors and team members can help address issues promptly and keep the project on track.
What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?
Tapers, who specialize in applying finishing coats to walls and ceilings, can earn around $10,000 a month with experience and a strong client base. Success in this field depends on skill, reputation, and the ability to secure high-paying projects, often working independently or for specialized contractors.
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 proficiency in drywall finishing techniques, a good eye for detail, and physical stamina, often gained through apprenticeship or on-the-job training. Familiarity with tools such as taping knives, joint compound applicators, sanders, and sometimes stilts is important, as well as adherence to safety protocols. Strong hand-eye coordination, reliability, and the ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure smooth, high-quality wall finishes, timely project completion, and safe work environments on construction sites.
What are tapers?
Tapers are skilled tradespeople who prepare walls and ceilings for painting or finishing by applying tape and compound to seams between sheets of drywall. They cover nail or screw holes, joints, and any imperfections to create a smooth surface. Tapers play a crucial role in the construction and renovation process by ensuring that walls and ceilings look seamless and are ready for the final finish.
What jobs pay 2000 a day?
Jobs for tapers, such as high-end audio or film industry professionals, can pay around $2,000 per day depending on experience, project scope, and location. These roles often require specialized skills, equipment, and a strong professional reputation, with some freelance or contract tapers earning high daily rates for large projects.
More about Tapers jobs
What cities are hiring for Tapers jobs? Cities with the most Tapers job openings:
What states have the most Tapers jobs? States with the most job openings for Tapers jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tapers jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tapers jobs are:
Job description
Tapers are required to finish walls, ceilings and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools that conform to the required levels of finishing standards. While maintaining the necessary production and quality required to complete a project and exceeding the customers’ expectations.
Tapers apply drywall tape compound to the seams between drywall panels and to nail and screw indentations on the surface of the panels. Tapers work on new walls and ceiling installs and make repairs to existing walls as well. Tapers install and finish metal, plastic, and aluminum trims. Apply number of coats of compound per specified level of finish, and sand areas after each coat.
Additional responsibilities include:
Reading and interpreting drawings
Checking working surfaces – verify panels joints are tight and aligned, fastened to framing members tightly without breaking the paper surface or fracturing the core.
Establishing a work schedule and flow of work
Organizing and verifying materials
Cleaning and repairing tools
Mixing Joint compounds
Applying fill coats
Applying finish coats
Finishing inside and outside corners
Dry sanding
Wet sanding
Vacuum sanding
Skim coating over gypsum board, concrete, or other related materials
Spraying finish compound
Know and understand the 5 levels and methods of drywall finishing.
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Tapers are typically responsible for the production and quality of the products they install. A Taper will usually report to a foreman or lead man and will be assigned a range of tasks to be completed. Timely production and quality are the main responsibilities of a Taper. In addition, Tapers are responsible for working safely and maintaining a safe work environment.
Tapers must work within precise limits and standards of specified finish level.
Physically, Tapers must be able to: Climb and maintain balance on scaffolds and ladders; reach for, handle, and manipulate objects and materials; lift and carry objects weighing up to 100 pounds; stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl, and see well (either naturally or with correction).
Wages based on unions scales: Range is $19.93 per hour for entry level apprentice to $53.05 per hour for journeyman, scales vary somewhat based on job site location.