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Tile Apprentice Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Helper A

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Tile, Carpet, wood flooring * Interior/Exterior lights, ceiling fans * Gas fixtures and appliances ... 2 year apprenticeship training while in the role. * Ability to read and write English as ...

... ceiling tile replacement, carpentry duties, plumbing repairs and maintaining operation logs ... Graduate of an apprenticeship program or hold current trade certification. * At least 3 years of ...

... ceiling tile replacement, carpentry duties, plumbing repairs and maintaining operation logs ... Graduate of an apprenticeship program or hold current trade certification. * At least 3 years of ...

... ceiling tile replacement, carpentry duties, plumbing repairs and maintaining operation logs ... Graduate of an apprenticeship program or hold current trade certification. * At least 3 years of ...

Showing results 21-25

Tile Apprentice information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$21

$36

How much do tile apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for tile apprentice in Illinois is $21.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Tile Apprentice, you need basic math skills, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring relevant trade coursework. Familiarity with tile-cutting tools, measuring devices, and safety equipment is typically required and often learned on the job. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure precise tile installation, workplace safety, and effective teamwork on construction sites.

What is the difference between Tile Apprentice vs Tile Setter?

AspectTile ApprenticeTile Setter
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingUsually requires experience, certifications, or completion of apprenticeship programs
Work EnvironmentAssists with preparation, mixing materials, and learning techniques under supervisionPerforms installation, cutting, and finishing of tiles independently or with team
Industry UsageEntry-level role in construction and remodeling projectsSkilled tradesperson responsible for final installation

The main difference between a Tile Apprentice and a Tile Setter is experience and responsibility. An apprentice is in training, assisting with tasks and learning skills, while a setter is a trained professional performing the actual installation. Apprentices gain hands-on experience to become skilled setters over time.

What are some common challenges tile apprentices face during their training period, and how can they overcome them?

Tile Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise measurement and cutting techniques, working efficiently in varied environments, and learning to properly mix and apply different adhesives and grout. To overcome these, apprentices should seek hands-on practice under the supervision of experienced installers, consistently ask questions, and review safety protocols to avoid common mistakes. Maintaining good communication with mentors and staying organized on the job site also helps build confidence and skill more quickly.

What is a tile apprentice?

Tile apprentices are entry-level workers who assist experienced tile setters in installing various types of tiles, such as ceramic, porcelain, and stone, in residential and commercial spaces. They learn the trade through hands-on experience and may also attend formal training or apprenticeship programs. Tile apprentices are responsible for tasks like measuring surfaces, preparing materials, mixing adhesives, and cleaning work areas. As they gain skills and experience, they can advance to become journeyman tile setters. The role is ideal for those interested in construction, craftsmanship, and working with their hands.

Do tile apprentices make good money?

Tile apprentices typically earn lower wages than experienced tile setters, but wages increase with skill level and experience. Entry-level apprentices may earn minimum wage or slightly above, while skilled apprentices or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher pay. Compensation often includes benefits and opportunities for overtime as they gain more skills and certifications.

How to start a career in tile apprenticeship?

To start a career as a tile apprentice, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should seek entry-level positions with construction or remodeling companies. Gaining skills in measuring, cutting, and installing tiles, often through on-the-job training or technical schools, is essential; some regions may require a license or certification to work independently. Apprenticeships usually combine paid work experience with classroom instruction and can last from one to four years, providing a pathway to becoming a licensed tile setter.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tile jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Tile jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Tile Apprentice jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Tile Apprentice jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Tile Apprentice jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Tile Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Tile Apprentice job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,387 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description


Position: Helper A

Direct Reporting: Maintenance Manager


The Helper A is responsible for executing maintenance requests by diagnosing problems and completing assigned service requests and repairs timely and thorough repairs in order to maintain the physical condition of the community according to operating and safety standards.

Essential Functions:

Diagnose and perform property maintenance/repair a daily basis. This includes but is not limited to:

  • Electrical and plumbing repair including rodding sewer lines
  • HVAC Domestic water systems (proper certification may be required for some repairs)
  • Appliances
  • Tile, Carpet, wood flooring
  • Interior/Exterior lights, ceiling fans
  • Gas fixtures and appliances (when applicable)
  • Shutters, doors, cabinets, windows, sliding glass doors, boiler, gas and electric
  • Door locks, P.O. Boxes repining and locks
  • Security systems, fire protection equipment, entry systems, emergency power systems
  • Walls – drywall and plaster repair
  • Finish carpentry and hardware installation
  • Waste management repairs (chutes, compactors)
  • Ensure vacant apartment homes are rent-ready in a timely manner.  Perform make ready work as required
  • Maintain company customer service standards.  Respond to resident requests and work with resident to minimize/resolve problems and complaints.  Follow through to ensure work is completed to residents’ satisfaction.
  • Inspect vacated apartments and complete make-ready checklists.  Inform Service Director of needed services and repairs.  Routinely perform duties to restore apartments to “market ready” status.  Re-inspect vacant apartments after make-ready operations have completed to determine quality of work performance.
  • Maintain accurate records regarding service requests received and completed apartment make-ready status work in progress, etc.
  • Constantly be aware of the condition of physical property throughout the community and immediately report unsafe conditions (i.e. broken doors leading to pool, broken steps, open holes, broken/burned out exterior lights).
  • Report all major repairs and requisitions to the Service Manager prior to any expenditure of funds.  Maintain adequate inventory of spare parts and maintenance materials to handle most common repairs and situations.
  • Identify all utility meter cut-offs, apartment and fixture cut-offs, sewer clean outs, and prepare maps indicating same schedule and perform routine preventive maintenance on all make ready apartments.  Inspect and maintain all tools in excellent condition.
  • Apply all applicable Regents Park Management policies and procedures such as, but not limited to company operating and safety standards.  Promote safe work practices among on-site staff.
  • Ensure compliance with all federal, state and local laws, specifically Fair Housing regulations.
  • Respond timely to all On-Call emergency requests.  Weekend and after hours overtime required.
  • Performs other related duties and assignments as required.

Qualifications:

  • 1 Year of related property maintenance experience
  • Helper A level union training is required for the role.  If this has not been completed, it is required to sign up to take the next available 2 year apprenticeship training while in the role.
  • Ability to read and write English as demonstrated by clear and concise written and verbal communications, the ability to read maintenance tickets and the ability to read and understand labels on containers of cleaning and chemical supplies
  • Ability to perform basic arithmetic skills such as measurement, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division in order to do basic calculations and analysis such as estimating, determining averages and percentages, and totals.
  • Ability to occasionally operate general office equipment such as, but not limited to, personal computer, telephone, photocopying machine, facsimile machine and postage machine.
  • Ability to frequently use general maintenance tools, supplies and equipment such as, but not limited to, hand tools, pressure washers, blowers, paint equipment, pool chemicals, snow and ice removal equipment, ladders, landscaping equipment, sandblasters, and safety equipment.
  • Ability to frequently handle and use chemicals and general cleaning supplies.
  • Ability to frequently stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, and climb (stairs, ladders, etc.)
  • Provide own basic tools, knowledgeable & skilled in the safe use & maintenance of:
    • Hand tools: Various wrenches, screw drivers, grips, sledge hammer, hammer, snips, post hole diggers, saws, etc.
    • Power tools: wrenches, grinder, sander, drill, saws, etc.
    • User-Moved Aids: Wheelbarrows, dollies, hand trucks, buckets, hoists, jacks, step ladders, full ladders, double ladders
    • Mechanical equipment:  Motors, pumps, compressors, blowers, electric and hand powered augers, etc.

Measures of Success:

  • Service Requests complete within 24 hour period, on call
  • Property inspections based on Regents Park Management standards

Associate Acknowledgement:

I acknowledge that I have received a copy of this job description and that it is my responsibility to read and understand it. If I have any questions about this job description or my job duties at any time during my employment, I understand that I should ask my Manager


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