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Tile Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Tech I

Romulus, MI · On-site

$26 - $37.75/hr

... 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 ...

Maintenance Tech I

Romulus, MI · On-site

$26 - $37.75/hr

... 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 21-24

Tile Apprentice information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do tile apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for tile apprentice in Michigan is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

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 Michigan?

The most popular types of Tile jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Tile Apprentice jobs in Michigan?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Tile Apprentice jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Tile Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Tile Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Tile Apprentice job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,924 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

$24.35/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

577th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Carpenter/Locksmith

Apply now Job no: 497967
Work type: Staff
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Staff

Position Title: Carpenter/Locksmith   Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus)   Department:

55500 - Carpentry

  Advertised Salary: $24.35 per hour   Benefits:

Comprehensive benefit package (health care, vacation, etc.). Please see the following link for a list of benefits offered with this position.

AFSCME Benefits

  FLSA: Non-Exempt   Temporary/Continuing:  Continuing   Part-Time/Full-Time: Full-Time   Union Group: Custodial, Maintenance, Dining, Skilled Trade (AFSCME Local 1609)   Term of Position: 12 Month   At Will/Just Cause: Just Cause   Summary of Position: Perform skilled trades work in locksmithing and carpentry on University owned buildings and furnishings. The normal working hours are typically 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. However, may be required to work other times, including evenings and/or weekends including responding to emergency calls. If required by job duties, employee must be able to fulfill the University's requirements concerning issuance and use of University keys. Personnel who possess the special qualifications and training necessary for this position may apply.
Position Type: Staff   Required Education: High school diploma or GED equivalency.
Required Work Experience: Completion of a carpenter apprenticeship program, or at least six years of a combination of residential and/or commercial construction experience to include new framing, renovation, repairs, replacements, and furniture installation.   Required Licenses and Certifications: Valid driver's license.
Will be required to obtain locksmith certification and training within one year from date of hire.
Physical Demands:
  • Bending
  • Carrying
  • Electrical Hazards
  • Inclement Weather
  • Moving
  • Reaching
  • Twisting
  • Balancing
  • Climbing
  • Driving
  • Heights
  • Lifting
  • Pulling/Pushing
  • Repetitive movement
  • Standing
  Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered: Commercial locksmith experience.   Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Layout, construct, repair, recover, and/or replace different types of cabinets, wood floors, doors, windows, baseboards, walls, ceilings and furniture made of a variety of materials.
Layout, construct, repair, and/or replace all types of tile (ceiling, acoustical, ceramic, floor, quarry, etc.) and masonry surfaces such as brick, block, and concrete.
Assemble furnishings such as desks, shelves, chairs, movable walls, etc.
Hang pictures, whiteboards, glassboards, etc.
Repair and maintenance of wall and corner protection (i.e., wainscot, wood chair rails, vinyl chair/guard, etc.).
Replace/repair single ply window glass and insulated windows.
Operates a university or personal vehicle safely while carrying out job responsibilities. Will authorize, pursuant to university policies and procedures, a driving record check, and will meet the driving authorization requirements through the course of employment in a position where you are authorized to drive a vehicle as part of our duties.
Estimate material requirements for assigned work and submit requisitions.
Hang, tape, and finish drywall including prepping surfaces as required for prime and paint.
Keep and maintain accurate records using a computer/iPad.
Maintain assigned tools, keep equipment and assigned spaces in a neat, organized and clean non-hazardous environment.
Stock and maintain inventory level of required carpentry and locksmith materials and tools.
Repair and/or replace metal furnishings such as locksets, doors, closures, panic devices, thresholds, hinges, and furnishings.
Repair plaster.
Install and repair locks, change and combinate cores, and cut keys.
Plan and install new cores for buildings (master, submaster, and groupings).
Log in cores, codes and key assignments on computer. Track grand master keys.
Repair flashing on shingle roof systems including down spouts and gutters.
Stock, maintain, and operate a service vehicle in a neat, organized, safe, and clean non-hazardous environment.
Maintain safety and security of equipment, vehicles, keys, tools, materials, and inventories.
Maintain safety, health and quality standards in all duties and responsibilities.
Report to immediate supervisor.
Carries out responsibilities in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.
Cultivates an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically.
Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.   Marginal Duties/Responsibilities: Assist other service workers as needed.
Train and direct the work of other employees in the performance of the characteristic duties.   Skills and Abilities: Be familiar with and understand basic fire codes.
Communicate effectively with students, staff, faculty, and visitors.
Direct and train others in the performance of the characteristic duties.
Keep and maintain accurate records.
Operate a personal computer/iPad, inputting and retrieving data.
Perform skilled work in all locksmith and carpentry-related duties.
Pick locks, change combinations, and prevent lockouts.
Read, understand, interpret, and follow plans, specifications, directions, safety labels, equipment operations manuals, etc.
Understand and know math and logic used to combine cores and perform mathematical computations with a high degree of accuracy.
Understand commercial-grade hardware.
Understand methods used to develop keying systems and key control.
Understand the application of, and operate all locksmith and carpentry-related tools and equipment, as well as materials.
Understand, use good judgment, and follow procedures established through safety training and the facilities management safety manual.
Work harmoniously with and direct others in situations of variable temperatures, occasional noise, stressful workloads, and in inclement weather environments.
Work independently.
Work with the least amount of inconvenience to all people involved.
Erect and work from scaffolding, ladders, boom trucks, and related devices.
Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences.   Required Documents:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  Optional Documents:     Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants must ensure that their application materials reflect that minimum qualifications are present in order to be considered for the position.   Initial Application Review Date:
August 10, 2026   Open Until Position is Filled?: Yes   Posting Close Date:
    EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence.  Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.     Click here to learn more about working at FSU and KCAD.        

Advertised: 24 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:

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