Tapers
Tapers seal and finish joints between sheets of plasterboard or wallboard, preparing smooth wall surfaces ready for painting or wallpaper. They work on construction sites, in homes, and commercial buildings, applying joint compound and tape to cover seams and create seamless surfaces.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tapers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Tapers apply tape and joint compound to wallboard seams using putty knives and other finishing tools. Work involves spreading compound smoothly, sanding dried coats between applications, and inspecting surfaces for quality. Tasks may include priming and preparing areas before painting. Projects vary from residential walls to large commercial spaces, and timelines depend on job size and number of coats needed.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCA. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this work if you prefer practical, hands-on tasks with clear methods and standards. People who succeed as tapers value precision and efficiency, follow established procedures, and take satisfaction in finishing physical work to specification.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $103,990 | $113,180 | $113,730 | 320 |
| Hawaii | $95,290 | $95,490 | $100,740 | 170 |
| Pennsylvania | $46,360 | $82,240 | $96,450 | 60 |
| Washington | $60,630 | $79,040 | $85,000 | 1,550 |
| Minnesota | $78,080 | $78,090 | $81,440 | 220 |
| New York | $66,820 | $77,790 | $101,030 | — |
| Kansas | $49,900 | $74,120 | $81,040 | 30 |
| Ohio | $69,270 | $73,840 | $76,810 | 110 |
| California | $59,760 | $73,460 | $88,540 | 4,540 |
| Oregon | $58,240 | $71,450 | $94,820 | 500 |
| Iowa | $56,790 | $66,980 | $70,380 | 100 |
| Massachusetts | $40,990 | $65,060 | $107,100 | 510 |
All 27 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tapers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2082.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.