Roofer Career Overview

Roofers cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, or related materials. This skilled trade offers stable employment with consistent wage growth and above-average job outlook prospects.

Median Wages and Compensation

The median annual wage for roofers was $50,970 in May 2024, equivalent to $24.51 per hour. Wages vary significantly by industry sector and experience level.

Industry-specific wage data from May 2023 shows variation across employment sectors:

  • Nonresidential Building Construction: $64,670 annually ($31.09/hour)
  • Residential Building Construction: $58,460 annually ($28.10/hour)
  • Building Equipment Contractors: $58,190 annually ($27.98/hour)
  • Foundation, Structure, and Building Exterior Contractors: $55,580 annually ($26.72/hour)

Historical wage trends demonstrate consistent growth. In May 2022, the median annual wage was $52,030, and in May 2019, it was $45,920, indicating steady wage increases over time.

Employment and Job Growth

Employment of roofers is projected to grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth rate reflects strong demand in the construction sector.

Current employment statistics show approximately 166,700 roofers in the workforce. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 12,700 openings for roofers annually over the decade, with many positions resulting from workers transferring to different occupations or retiring.

Within the roofing contractor industry specifically, roofers comprise approximately 50 percent of total employment, representing the largest occupational group in this sector.

Educational Requirements and Training

Roofers require no formal educational credential and typically complete moderate-term on-the-job training. This makes the profession accessible to individuals without college degrees while still requiring substantial skill development.

Training typically occurs through apprenticeships or on-the-job experience under established roofers. Apprentice workers are classified with the appropriate skilled construction trade occupation and receive structured training in safety protocols, material handling, and installation techniques.

Career Advancement Opportunities

The roofing industry offers multiple career pathways. Entry-level positions include Helpers--Roofers, who perform duties requiring less skill such as using, supplying, or holding materials and tools, and cleaning work areas and equipment. Helpers--Roofers earned a median annual wage of $42,520 in May 2023.

Experienced roofers can advance to supervisory and management positions. Management occupations within roofing contractors earned a median hourly wage of $46.15 ($111,910 annually) in May 2023, representing significant earning potential for those who progress to leadership roles.

Industry Employment Distribution

The majority of roofers work in Foundation, Structure, and Building Exterior Contractors, which employed 123,840 roofers in May 2023 and represented 12.65 percent of that industry's total employment. Other significant employers include residential and nonresidential building construction sectors, though these employ smaller numbers of roofers.

Certifications and Credentials

While the search results provided do not specify particular certification bodies or credential requirements, the roofing industry typically recognizes certifications from organizations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the Roofing Industry Committee for Cool Roofs (RICR). Specific certifications vary by roofing material type (asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, etc.) and regional requirements. Prospective roofers should consult with local roofing contractors and state licensing boards to determine applicable certifications for their geographic area and specialization.

Practical Career Considerations

The roofing trade offers several advantages: no formal educational credential requirement, moderate-term training period, above-average job growth, and solid wage compensation. The median wage of $50,970 exceeds many entry-level professional positions and provides financial stability.

However, prospective roofers should consider that roofing is physically demanding work performed at heights, requiring strong safety awareness and physical fitness. Weather conditions affect work schedules, and seasonal variations may impact employment consistency in some regions.

The 6 percent projected growth rate indicates sustained demand, making this a relatively secure career choice. With approximately 12,700 annual openings projected through 2034, qualified roofers should find consistent employment opportunities.