Chicago-Taper

About the role

Tapers finish walls, ceilings, and trim using hand tools and mechanical tools to meet required finishing standards while maintaining production and quality to complete projects and exceed customer expectations. The role involves applying drywall tape compound to seams, nail and screw indentations, and working on new installations or repairs. Tapers also install and finish metal, plastic, and aluminum trims, apply multiple coats of compound, and sand areas after each coat.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret drawings
• Check working surfaces to verify tight and aligned panel joints, proper fastening to framing members without damaging the surface
• Establish work schedules and flow of work
• Organize and verify materials
• Clean and repair tools
• Mix joint compounds
• Apply fill coats and finish coats
• Finish inside and outside corners
• Perform dry sanding, wet sanding, and vacuum sanding
• Skim coat over gypsum board, concrete, or related materials
• Spray finish compound
• Understand and apply the 5 levels and methods of drywall finishing
• Maintain production and quality standards
• Work safely and maintain a safe work environment

Requirements

• Ability to climb and maintain balance on scaffolds and ladders
• Reach, handle, and manipulate objects and materials
• Lift and carry objects weighing up to 100 pounds
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl
• Good vision (naturally or with correction)
• Work within precise limits and standards of specified finish levels

Pay

Wages are based on union scales, ranging from $19.93 per hour for entry-level apprentices to $53.05 per hour for journeymen, with variations based on job site location.