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ConstructionStable

Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer

Operational-level

Also known as: Acoustical Carpenter, Acoustical Ceiling Installer, Acoustical Consultant, Acoustical Installer

ConstructionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

Apply plasterboard or other wallboard to ceilings or interior walls of buildings. Apply or mount acoustical tiles or blocks, strips, or sheets of shock-absorbing materials to ceilings and walls of buildings to reduce or reflect sound. Materials may be of decorative quality. Includes lathers who fasten wooden, metal, or rockboard lath to walls, ceilings, or partitions of buildings to provide support base for plaster, fireproofing, or acoustical material.
Drywall InstallationCeiling Tile InstallationAcoustical InstallationInterior FinishingConstructionSkilled TradesBuilding ConstructionTechnicalBuildingSkilled Trade

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+2.5%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

6,600

per year (US)

Jobs today

102,200

in 2025 → 104,700 (2035)

Typical entry education

No formal educational credential

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
Moderate
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
Low
Working outdoors
High
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
High

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This field maintains steady employment levels with consistent demand. Job opportunities remain available with moderate competition.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Aide-ouvrier en construction
  • Manœuvre du bâtiment
  • Apprenti poseur de cloisons sèches

Where it can lead

  • Contremaître en construction
  • Entrepreneur en rénovation
  • Estimateur en construction

Impact of AI on this Job

AI's impact on drywall and ceiling tile installers in the next 5-10 years will likely be moderate. While autonomous robots might handle repetitive tasks like panel transportation or initial cuts, the intricate fitting, finishing, and problem-solving required for complex installations will still rely heavily on human skill. AI-powered tools could assist with precise measurements and material optimization, enhancing efficiency rather than replacing the core role.