Roofers: Job Level and Salary Data

Roofing: Everything You Need to Know about This Career

Roofers are professionals who install and repair roofs on residential and commercial buildings. This job requires a high level of physical fitness and skill level, as it involves working at heights and in various weather conditions. Roofing is a crucial component in the construction industry, and it is essential for protecting the interior of homes and buildings from the elements. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what this job entails, what education and training are required, and how to get started in this field.

What is the Job of a Roofer?

The primary responsibility of a roofer is to install, maintain, and repair roofs on homes and commercial buildings. This can include working with a variety of materials, such as asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and slate. Roofers must have a keen eye for detail, as they need to ensure that the roof is installed correctly and free of defects. This job requires a great deal of physical labor, including lifting heavy materials, climbing ladders and scaffolding, and working in sometimes awkward and cramped spaces. Additionally, roofers need to be comfortable working in all types of weather conditions, as they may be called to work in extreme heat or cold, rain, wind, or snow.

Examples of Roofing Jobs

Roofers can work in a wide range of settings, from residential homes to large commercial properties. Here are some of the most common roofing jobs:

Residential Roofing: This involves the installation or repair of roofs on single-family homes or smaller multi-family properties, such as townhouses or apartment buildings.

Commercial Roofing: This job involves installing or repairing roofs on larger buildings, such as warehouses, retail stores, and office buildings.

Industrial Roofing: In this field, roofers focus on large-scale industrial or manufacturing properties, which may require specialized roofing materials or techniques.

Specialty Roofing: Some roofers specialize in certain types of roofing materials or techniques, such as solar panel installations, green roofs, or flat roofs.

What Education and Training is Required to Become a Roofer?

While a formal education is not required to become a roofer, there are several paths to enter this profession. Many roofers begin their careers as apprentices, working alongside experienced professionals to learn the trade. Apprenticeships can last anywhere from one to four years and typically involve classroom instruction combined with hands-on training.

Alternatively, some roofers may complete a vocational or technical program, which can provide a more structured curriculum and may include courses on building codes, safety regulations, and project management.

There are also certificate programs that provide advanced training in specific roofing techniques or materials. Additionally, some states may require roofers to obtain a license or certification before starting work, so it’s essential to research the requirements in your area.

How Do Roofers Progress in Their Career?

Once someone has completed their training and achieved experience, they can progress to more advanced roles in the roofing industry. For example, a roofer may become a crew leader, responsible for overseeing a team of workers on a particular project. Alternatively, they may move into a supervisory or management position, overseeing multiple teams and projects. In some cases, roofers may also start their own business, becoming an entrepreneur in the roofing industry.

How Can You Get Started in the Roofing Field?

If you’re interested in becoming a roofer, there are a few steps you can take to get started. Firstly, look for apprenticeship opportunities in your area or ask local roofing contractors if they have any job openings. Additionally, consider enrolling in a vocational program or technical school to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.

Overall, a career in roofing can be challenging but rewarding, offering the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and contribute to the construction industry in a meaningful way. With the right training and experience, anyone can become a skilled and trusted roofer.

Roofers: Job Level and Salary Data

The occupation of roofers involves the installation, repair, and maintenance of various types of roofs for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. In terms of job level, roofers typically fall under Level 06, which denotes skilled workers with a high level of experience and training. The national average salary for all workers in this field is $59,092.80 to $61,235.20. However, when broken down by level of experience, the range is $45,822.40 to $65,499.20.

Unionization can have a significant impact on the salary of roofers. According to the data, unionized roofers earn an average of $66,892.80 to $74,734.40, which is higher than the nonunion average of $47,736.00 to $42,390.40. Full-time roofers have an average salary of $52,228.80 to $62,296.00 depending on their level.

Here is a data table that shows the different salary ranges for roofers:

As shown in the data, roofers in Ohio earn more than the national average for nonunionized workers, with a salary range of $55,556.80 to $40,747.20. On the other hand, roofers in South Carolina have a lower average salary range of $39,249.60 to $36,878.40.