Roofer

Your Fit

Income

$51K

Preparation

Some

Growth

2.0%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Roofer?

A Roofer is a tradesperson who specializes in roof construction, focusing on the application, repair, and replacement of roofs on buildings. They ensure that buildings are waterproof and weatherproof, using a variety of materials, including shingles, bitumen, and metal.

Sample job titles:

Roof Mechanic, Roof Service Technician, Roofer, Roofing Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Roofer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Roofer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$37K per year	$45K per year	$51K per year	$64K per year	$81K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $1.47K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Roofer do?

Work environment

Roofers typically work outdoors on the tops of residential or commercial buildings. The work is physically demanding and often involves climbing, bending, and kneeling. Roofers must be comfortable working at heights and in various weather conditions. Safety precautions are paramount due to the risks associated with working at heights.

Quick task list

Inspects roofs to determine the best repair or replacement solutions.
Measures roofs to calculate the materials needed.
Installs, repairs, or replaces roofing materials like shingles, tiles, and metal.
Waterproofs and weatherproofs roofs.
Ensures compliance with building codes and safety regulations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Roofing: Specializing in roofing for houses and apartment buildings.
Commercial Roofing: Working on larger scale projects like office buildings and factories.
Shingle Roofing: Focusing on the installation and repair of shingle roofs.
Metal Roofing: Specializing in the installation and maintenance of metal roofs.
Green Roofing: Implementing environmentally friendly and sustainable roofing solutions.

Description

Roofing is a critical and demanding profession, integral to the construction and maintenance of buildings. Roofers must have a strong understanding of various materials and techniques to ensure roofs are durable, waterproof, and comply with building codes. The job requires not only physical strength and stamina but also precision and attention to detail to ensure quality workmanship.

Communication skills are important in this field, as roofers often work in teams and must coordinate with other construction professionals. The ability to read and interpret blueprints and building plans is also essential. Safety is a top priority in roofing, and professionals must be knowledgeable about and compliant with safety regulations and practices.

As technology and materials evolve, roofers must keep up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. This includes understanding new materials, sustainability practices, and safety equipment. The ability to adapt to these changes is crucial for long-term success in the profession.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The physical and technical challenge of constructing and repairing roofs.
The visible and tangible results of their work, contributing directly to the safety and aesthetics of buildings.
Opportunities to work in various locations and on diverse projects, offering a dynamic and changing work environment.

You might make a good Roofer if you are...

Comfortable with heights and physically demanding tasks.
Detail-oriented, ensuring precision in your work.
Able to work well in a team and communicate effectively.
Safety-conscious, always adhering to best practices and regulations.
Adaptable to different working conditions and willing to learn new techniques.

Pros:

High demand for skilled roofers across various construction sectors.
Opportunities for self-employment and freelance work.
Physical, hands-on work that offers a sense of accomplishment.

Cons:

The job can be hazardous due to the risks of working at heights.
Work can be physically strenuous and sometimes performed in extreme weather conditions.
May have seasonal fluctuations, with less work available during colder or wetter periods.

How to become a Roofer

Typical education

Becoming a roofer usually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. This training typically lasts for 2-4 years, combining hands-on experience with some classroom instruction.

High school preparation

Courses:

Technical and Vocational Education, particularly in construction or carpentry.
Mathematics for understanding measurements and spatial relationships.
Physical Education to build stamina and physical strength.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a construction or carpentry club, if available.
Volunteering for community service projects involving building or repair work.
Participating in sports or physical activities to build endurance and physical fitness.

Preparation after high school

Enrolling in a vocational or technical school offering courses in roofing or construction.
Seeking an apprenticeship with a roofing company to gain hands-on experience.
Attending workshops or certification courses specific to different roofing materials and safety protocols.

More resources

National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) - Provides educational programs, publications, and resources for roofing professionals.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Offers detailed job descriptions and educational pathways for roofers.
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) - Provides apprenticeship and craft training programs in the roofing trade.
International Roofing Expo (IRE) - Hosts an annual event with educational sessions and networking opportunities for roofing professionals.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.