Drywall Installer & Tapper Overview:
The Master Drywall Finisher and Tapper is an elite surface-finishing specialist transforming raw drywall wallboards into seamless, architectural environments. Operating at the highest levels of precision, this role involves delivering Level 4 and Level 5 finishes for high-gloss paint, wallcoverings, and specialized protective coatings. As a Journeyman, you will expertly operate automatic taping tools (“bazookas”), power mixers, mechanical finishing boxes, and dust-contained vacuum sanding systems while leading adherence to strict Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) and contamination-control protocols. You will serve as a site leader, ensuring aesthetic perfection and providing critical mentorship to apprentices.
Key Responsibilities
Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of verifiable experience as a Journeyman Drywall Installer or Tapper specializing in commercial, industrial, or cleanroom settings.
- Expert-level proficiency in operating automatic taping tools, finishing boxes, corner rollers, and dustless vacuum sanding systems.
- OSHA 10 hours certified (OSHA 30 certification preferred), along with specialized ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment) training.
- Previous experience with overseeing, directing, and mentoring Drywall Installation and Tapper Apprentices, providing vital on-the-job training (OJT) to help keep the craft alive, ensure quality and safety compliance.
Core Competencies
- Strong Work Ethic & Reliability: Punctual, dependable, and committed to showing up ready to work every day.
- Curiosity: Active listening skills and a strong desire to learn.
- Growth Mindset & Receptivity: Takes direction and constructive critique positively to continuously improve work quality.
- Safety Mindset: Proactive commitment to job site safety and strict adherence to OSHA regulations.
- Team Collaboration: Ability to work productively alongside Journeymen and peers.
- Detail-Oriented Problem Solving: Sharp attention to detail and ability to think critically when site conditions change.
Requirements
Enrollment Eligibility
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to travel to various job sites and regional training centers.
- Legal work authorization: Valid state-issued photo ID, birth certificate, and legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Minimum 5 years of professional Journeyman experience.
- Willing to enroll and obtain or hold an active union membership in good standing with the regional International Union for Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to perform demanding physical labor in various environmental conditions.
- Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver materials weighing up to 75 lbs.
- Physical stamina to stand, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and work at elevated heights.
- Excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and spatial reasoning.
Benefits
- Full-time employment
- Employer-paid health insurance which includes:
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Pension/annuity contributions
- Full health benefit coverage begins after 90 days in the program.
Compensation
Base Rates
As of May of 2026, the current taxable Journeyman Drywall Installer or Tapper base rates in Ohio range from approximately $36.40/hour depending on the regional zone/county.
Fringe Benefits
The total package exceeds $59.16/hour when including employer-paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision) and pension/annuity contributions.
Wage Progression
Start at 70% of the full Journeyman base wage, receiving scheduled pay raises every year until reaching 100% Journeyman pay upon graduation.
Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.