Explore
Ceramic, stone & large format
Tile Setter
The trade where being fussy is the qualification.
Typical pay
$45k-$95k
How you get in
On the job or apprenticeship, 1-4 years
Outlook
Strong; renovation demand and few skilled setters
Tile setters install ceramic, porcelain and stone on floors, walls and showers. Waterproofing a shower correctly is the skill that separates professionals, because failures there are expensive and always come back to you.
A day in the life
- 7:00aCheck substrate flatness and set the layout lines
- 8:00aWaterproof and pre-slope a shower pan
- 10:30aSet wall tile, checking lippage constantly
- 12:00pLunch
- 12:30pCut around niches, drains and outlets
- 4:00pClean joints, prep for grout tomorrow
How to get in
Helper to setter
Duration
1-3 years
Cost
$0 — paid from day one
Credential
None; CTEF certification recommended
- Start mixing thinset and cutting for an experienced setter
- Learn layout first — a bad layout cannot be fixed later
- Master waterproofing systems and their manufacturer requirements
- Get CTEF Certified Tile Installer to prove competence
Union apprenticeship
Duration
3-4 years
Cost
$0 — paid while you train
Credential
Journeyman tile setter
- Apply to a tile finishers and setters local
- Complete paid apprenticeship with classroom instruction
- Learn commercial standards and large-format installation
- Union commercial tile work is hourly with benefits
Independent with a specialty
Duration
3-5 years of experience
Cost
$5,000-$25,000 for tools and a vehicle
Credential
CTEF certification, business license and insurance
- Build speed and a flawless waterproofing record
- Specialize in custom showers, large format or natural stone
- Register and insure the business
- Work directly with designers and high-end builders for premium rates
What people love
- · Highest-paying flooring specialty
- · Genuine craft with visible results
- · Strong demand for shower and large-format work
- · Very achievable to work independently
What wears people down
- · Knees and back take permanent damage
- · Silica dust from cutting requires real protection
- · A failed shower waterproofing is a catastrophic callback
- · Piece rate punishes complex layouts