Tile and Stone Setters
Tile and stone setters install hard materials like ceramic tile, stone, and similar products on surfaces throughout buildings. They work on walls, floors, ceilings, countertops, and roof decks in new construction, renovations, and remodeling projects. Most work is done on-site at job locations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tile and stone setters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work typically involves measuring and cutting tiles or stone pieces, preparing surfaces with adhesive or mortar, and positioning materials to create level, aligned installations. Setters spend time planning layouts, mixing materials, using hand tools and power equipment, and grouting joints. Projects may take days or weeks depending on scope. Much of the work requires standing, bending, and working at various heights.
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 tend to prefer hands-on work with tangible results and like following established procedures and standards. You are detail-oriented about accuracy and quality, and you work methodically through tasks. You likely enjoy seeing a finished surface that is both functional and visually correct.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $59,190 | $81,150 | $95,940 | 410 |
| Hawaii | $61,360 | $79,270 | $101,980 | 440 |
| Washington | $63,090 | $77,920 | $97,350 | 660 |
| Maine | $65,160 | $70,720 | $91,690 | 60 |
| Minnesota | $61,750 | $70,560 | $71,750 | 610 |
| Pennsylvania | $50,250 | $70,230 | $78,670 | 880 |
| Illinois | $48,250 | $67,160 | $93,240 | 730 |
| Connecticut | $49,830 | $63,150 | $70,510 | 230 |
| Wisconsin | $57,070 | $62,680 | $75,760 | 410 |
| New Jersey | $46,410 | $62,370 | $97,190 | 460 |
| New York | $50,130 | $61,260 | $74,690 | 2,990 |
| Nevada | $49,970 | $61,200 | $85,430 | 1,450 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Advanced Certification for Tile Installers - Large Format tile — International Masonry Institute
- Advanced Certification for Tile Installers - Mud Work — International Masonry Institute
- Advanced Certification for Tile Installers - Membranes — International Masonry Institute
- Advanced Certification for Tile Installers - Showers — International Masonry Institute
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 tile and stone setters and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2044.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.