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Tile Apprentice Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Carpenter

Irvine, CA · On-site

$49.81/hr

Installs and/or repairs floor tiles, installs suspended ceilings, cabinets, and demountable ... or apprenticeship (desired). Special Conditions: * May work in toxic, diseased, chemically ...

Tile Apprentice information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do tile apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for tile apprentice in Riverside, CA is $22.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.10 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 experienced apprentices or those with certifications can earn higher pay, often supplemented by overtime or project-based bonuses. Overall, tile apprenticeship wages are generally modest but can improve significantly as skills develop.

How much does a tile apprentice make?

A tile apprentice typically earns between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. Apprentices often start at a lower wage and increase as they gain skills and certifications in tile setting and installation. The annual salary can range from approximately $20,000 to $40,000 for entry-level apprentices.

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 programs may also require safety certifications like OSHA training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tile jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Tile jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Tile Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Tile Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Tile Apprentice job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,788 per year, or $23 per hour.

Carpenter

Irvine, CA • On-site

University of California, Irvine
Education • 10K+ employees

$49.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Construct new partitions, install drywall, paneling, and hang doors and frames based on blueprints, drawings, and instructions.

  • Install and repair floor tiles, suspended ceilings, cabinets, demountable partitions, and minor furniture.

  • Fabricate and install countertops, cabinets, bulletin boards, chalkboards, and repair or rebuild furniture.


University Of California Irvine rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Who We Are
Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation's top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide.
To learn more about UC Irvine, visit www.uci.edu.
The Division of Finance and Administration (DFA) provides services and support to over 50,000 students, faculty, and staff with the mission of advancing UCI's brilliant future and the vision of becoming world-class campus partners. DFA serves the university as planning partners, problem solvers, and solutions providers - striving to make it as easy as possible for people to get the services they need, when they need them.
Facilities Management is responsible for the effective operation of Irvine campus buildings, grounds and utilities; for providing a safe, functionally suitable and aesthetic environment in support of academic, research and public service programs of the University. Providing comprehensive management of campus facilities requires the employment of approximately 325 personnel ranging in classification from custodians and groundskeepers to more technical skilled crafts such as electricians and plumbers, and professional design staff and engineers. These services cover more than 150 buildings of approximately 6 million gross square feet, and1,475 acres of grounds. Facilities Management has an annual operating budget exceeding $80 million in expenditures, with operating funds of $30 million and $15 million for reimbursable campus activities. Project Services a construction department within Facilities Management manages a portfolio of major infrastructure and renovation projects totaling $200M per year.
Your Role on the Team
Constructs new partitions, installs drywall, paneling, and hangs commercial and residential doors and frames working from blueprints, drawings, written and/or oral instructions. Installs and/or repairs floor tiles, installs suspended ceilings, cabinets, and demountable partitions, and minor furniture repair. Fabricates and installs Formica covered counter tops, cabinets, bulletin boards, chalkboards and repairs or rebuilds furniture. Maintains time and materials documentation for each job assigned.
What It Takes to be Successful
Required:
  • 1. Strong command of the English language is mandatory (required).
  • 2. Proven ability to safely use hand held electrical power tools (required).
  • 3. Proven ability to safely use carpenter shop power tools (required).
  • 4. Ability to read blueprints and drawings (required).
  • 5. Must have strong interpersonal communication skills (required).
  • 6. Must have a valid California driver license (required).
  • 1-3 yearsof experience performing general carpentry work, including construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of building components and fixtures.

Driver's License:
  • Required to hold a valid drivers license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program.

Preferred:
  • 7. Knowledge of the UC Irvine Campus (desired).
  • 8. Background in working in an institutional setting (desired).
  • 9. Certificate of completion from a trade school or apprenticeship (desired).

Special Conditions:
  • May work in toxic, diseased, chemically contained or radioactive lab intensive areas determined to be safe; need to wear safety glasses, hearing protection, safety shoes and respirator. Must be available for on-call assignments or alternate work schedule. Must be willing to work weekends.

Total Rewards
In addition to the salary range listed below, we offer a wealth of benefits to make working at UCI even more rewarding. These benefits may include medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to a number of discounts and perks. Please utilize the links listed here to learn more about our compensation practices and benefits.
Conditions of Employment:
The University of California, Irvine (UCI) seeks to provide a safe and healthy environment for the entire UCI community. As part of this commitment, all applicants who accept an offer of employment must comply with the following conditions of employment:
  • Background Check and Live Scan
  • Employment Misconduct*
  • Legal Right to work in the United States
  • Vaccination Policies
  • Smoking and Tobacco Policy
  • Drug Free Environment

*Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
The following additional conditions may apply, some of which are dependent upon business unit or job specific requirements.
  • California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act
  • E-Verify
  • Pre-Placement Health Evaluation

Details of each policy may be reviewed by visiting the following page - https://hr.uci.edu/new-hire/conditions-of-employment.php
Closing Statement:
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.
We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce along with honoring unique experiences, perspectives, and identities. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.
UCI provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. For more information, please contact Human Resources at (949) 824-0500 or eec@uci.edu.
Consideration for Work Authorization Sponsorship
Must be able to provide proof of work authorization

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