Occupation Details
Tile and Stone Setters
Apply hard tile, stone, and comparable materials to walls, floors, ceilings, countertops, and roof decks.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Artistic
Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Working Conditions
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Independence
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$42,770.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$63,640.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$92,400.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
4,750
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
6,330
+158 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
625
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.3%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Some Training - Certificate or hands-on training
Experience Requirements
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education Requirements
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Earn While You Learn: Discover hands-on training opportunities that combine paid work experience with classroom instruction for this career path.
AT Bricklayers Local #3 Ithaca
Endicott, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship Committee for the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), Local Union #3, will conduct a recruitment from January 8, 2025 through January 7, 2026 for 15 Bricklayer, Mason, and Plasterer apprentices; five Pointer, Caulker and Cleaner apprentice; two Cement Mason apprentice; and two Tile Setter apprentices.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a High School diploma or High School equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED) Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to perform the work of these trades, which may include: Working with sharp objects, hazardous machinery, and possible exposure to noise and respiratory irritants. Prolonged standing and walking. Repeated squatting and/or bending. Working indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions. Working in confined spaces. Lifting and moving heavy objects and equipment up to 50 pounds. Working on ladders and scaffolds exceeding 50 feet. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be prepared to take a math and measurement computation test at the time of interview. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at the IUBAC Local Union #3 Training Center, 4 Railroad Street, Whitney Point, NY 13862 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., every Monday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications can also be obtained on-line at www.bac3ny.com during the recruitment period. Completed applications can be obtained and submitted at the www.bac3ny.com and at the JAC for the IUBAC, Local Union #3 Training Center, 4 Railroad Street, Whitney Point, NY 13862 no later than January 7, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact the JAC for the IUBAC, Local Union #3 at (607) 786-8945. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Endicott, NY 13760
AT Bricklayers Local #3 Ithaca
Endicott, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship Committee for the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), Local Union #3, will conduct a recruitment from January 8, 2025 through January 7, 2026 for 15 Bricklayer, Mason, and Plasterer apprentices; five Pointer, Caulker and Cleaner apprentice; two Cement Mason apprentice; and two Tile Setter apprentices.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a High School diploma or High School equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED) Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to perform the work of these trades, which may include: Working with sharp objects, hazardous machinery, and possible exposure to noise and respiratory irritants. Prolonged standing and walking. Repeated squatting and/or bending. Working indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions. Working in confined spaces. Lifting and moving heavy objects and equipment up to 50 pounds. Working on ladders and scaffolds exceeding 50 feet. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be prepared to take a math and measurement computation test at the time of interview. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at the IUBAC Local Union #3 Training Center, 4 Railroad Street, Whitney Point, NY 13862 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., every Monday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications can also be obtained on-line at www.bac3ny.com during the recruitment period. Completed applications can be obtained and submitted at the www.bac3ny.com and at the JAC for the IUBAC, Local Union #3 Training Center, 4 Railroad Street, Whitney Point, NY 13862 no later than January 7, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact the JAC for the IUBAC, Local Union #3 at (607) 786-8945. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Endicott, NY 13760
AT Bricklayers Local #3 Ithaca
Endicott, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship Committee for the International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), Local Union #3, will conduct a recruitment from January 8, 2025 through January 7, 2026 for 15 Bricklayer, Mason, and Plasterer apprentices; five Pointer, Caulker and Cleaner apprentice; two Cement Mason apprentice; and two Tile Setter apprentices.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a High School diploma or High School equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED) Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to perform the work of these trades, which may include: Working with sharp objects, hazardous machinery, and possible exposure to noise and respiratory irritants. Prolonged standing and walking. Repeated squatting and/or bending. Working indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions. Working in confined spaces. Lifting and moving heavy objects and equipment up to 50 pounds. Working on ladders and scaffolds exceeding 50 feet. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be prepared to take a math and measurement computation test at the time of interview. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at the IUBAC Local Union #3 Training Center, 4 Railroad Street, Whitney Point, NY 13862 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., every Monday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications can also be obtained on-line at www.bac3ny.com during the recruitment period. Completed applications can be obtained and submitted at the www.bac3ny.com and at the JAC for the IUBAC, Local Union #3 Training Center, 4 Railroad Street, Whitney Point, NY 13862 no later than January 7, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact the JAC for the IUBAC, Local Union #3 at (607) 786-8945. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Endicott, NY 13760
AT North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund (Rock Tavern)
Rock Tavern, NY
Announcement
The North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund will conduct a recruitment from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 for five Linoleum, Resilient Tile and Carpet Layer apprentices. Applications are available online at https://www.nasctf.org/ during the recruitment period. Applications can only be obtained and submitted on-line. Applicants who do not have Internet access may visit their local library or nearest New York State Department of Labor Career Center when open. Interested candidates must attend an in-person information session prior to submitting an electronic application. Applications are also available at the information sessions indicated here. Please select location nearest to you. In person information sessions are given the first Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period at NASCTF Albany- 16 Corporate Circle, Albany, NY 12203; Rochester-21 Jetview Drive, Rochester, NY 14624; Rock Tavern-52 Stone Castle Road, Rock Tavern, NY 12575; Syracuse-6920 Princeton Court, Syracuse, NY 13212, Buffalo-1000 N. Blossom Road, Elma, NY 14059, Horseheads-181 Latta Brook Industrial Park Road, Horseheads, NY 1484, BINGHAMTON - 23 Market St, Binghamton, NY 13905; UTICA - 207 Genesee St, Utica, New York 13501-2812. Information session at Jamestown-65 E. Main Street, Falconer, NY 14733 is held at 4:00 p.m. sharp. If the first Monday falls on a holiday, the information session will occur at the second Monday of that month at 6:00 p.m. Please note, spaces are limited, and filled on a first come first serve basis. At the conclusion of the information session, a passcode will be given which is required to complete an on-line application. If any assistance is needed for completing the online application, please contact the NASCTF at (585) 436-1110 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday. All applications must be received no later than June 30, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 17 years old. Must attest in writing that they are physically able to perform the work of a Linoleum, Resilient Tile and Carpet Layer apprentice, which may include: Working with stationary and portable hand and power tools. Standing and stooping for prolonged periods of time. Working in all types of weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold. Performing constant repetitive motions. Lifting/Holding items that weigh a minimum of 50 lbs. Must pass a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. If applicant tests positive, he/she cannot reapply for one year. Must be willing to attend required classes at the approved school. Must have reliable transportation and willing to travel to and from various job sites (in counties listed below) and required classes at the approved school. Must live in the geographical jurisdiction, which includes all New York State counties excluding: Nassau, Suffolk, the counties of the five boroughs of New York (Kings, Bronx, Queens, New York and Richmond). Must be willing to travel to various locations within the geographical jurisdiction of NASCTF which includes all New York State counties excluding: Nassau, Suffolk, the counties of the five boroughs of New York (Kings, Bronx, Queens, New York and Richmond). Must provide military transfer card or discharge form DD-214, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact North Atlantic States Carpenters Training Fund at (585) 436-1110. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Rock Tavern, NY 12575
AT Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local #2 (Albany)
Albany, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local Union #2 (Albany), will conduct a recruitment from May 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026 for eight Bricklayer, Mason and Plasterer apprentices; eight Pointer, Caulker and Cleaner apprentices; two Tile Setter (3 Year) apprentices; and two Tile, Marble and Terrazzo Finisher apprentices. Please note that the openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for three recruitment regions - the Capital District, Mohawk Valley, and North Country regions of the state.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 17 years old. Must be physically able to lift 50-100 pounds. Must have a valid drivers license to operate company vehicles. Must reside within the geographic jurisdiction of Local Union #2 for at least six months prior to application. This includes the counties of Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, Washington, Greene, Delaware, Rensselaer, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Saratoga, Essex, Franklin, and the state of Vermont. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained and completed in person at JATC for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local Union #2, 302 Centre Drive, Albany, NY 12203 or at the Eastern Contractors Association, 6 Airline Drive, Albany, NY 12205, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications are also available and can be submitted online 24 hours a day during the recruitment period at www.BAC2NYVT.org. Applications obtained in person or on-line may be completed and mailed to: Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers JATC #2, 302 Centre Drive, Albany, NY 12203. Applications must be received no later than April 30, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact JATC for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local Union #2 at (518) 456-5477. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Albany, NY 12203
AT Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers LU #3 (Rochester)
Pittsford, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local #3 (Rochester), will conduct a recruitment from October 4, 2025 through October 3, 2026 for eight Bricklayer and Mason apprentices, four Tile Setter apprentices, four Tile, Marble, and Terrazzo Finisher apprentices and four Pointer, Caulker and Cleaner apprentices. Applications are available online during the recruitment period at https://bac3ny.com/training-education-safety/apprentice-training-program. Applicants must print the online application to complete it. Completed applications can be left in the entrance to the BAC LU #3 JATC Office at 33 Saginaw Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, or in the drop box outside of the office. Completed applications can also be mailed to BAC LU #3 JATC, 33 Saginaw Drive, Rochester, NY 14623. If unable to print the application, please call (585) 641-0750 between the hours of 8:00AM-4:00PM Monday-Friday (excluding legal holidays) and you will be mailed an application.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment. Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to perform the work required of the trade, which may include: Standing and kneeling for prolonged periods of time. Climbing and working off of lifts, ladders and scaffolds. Repetitive bending and stooping. Must have near vision to read blueprints and depth perception to verify alignment of stones, bricks and blocks. Verifying trueness of alignment of stones, bricks, and blocks using a plumb bob. Lifting, carrying, and positioning materials weighing up to 40 pounds. Possible exposure to loud noises and respiratory irritants such as dust and chemicals; the use of personal protective equipment may be required. Working in confined spaces and outside in all weather conditions. Must pass a physical and a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after the offer of employment. Must also submit to random drug testing which may be administered at any time during the apprenticeship. Must provide their own hand tools as appropriate for the trade. Estimated cost of tools is approximately $100-$500 depending on the trade. Must provide proof of employment authorization to work in the United States, at the time of offer. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact JATC for Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers, Local Union #3 (Rochester) at (585) 641-0750. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Pittsford, NY 14534
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Concern for Others
Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Acoustic ear muffs or defenders
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Air compressors
- Angle grinders
- Articulating boom lifts
- Base grinders
- Bench vises
- Blow torches
- Builders' levels
- Bull floats
- Buttering trowels
- Caulking guns
- Chalk lines
- Chipping hammers
- Claw hammers
- Cold chisels
- Colloidal mixers
- Double-sided files
- Drum cement mixers
- Dust collectors
- Dust masks
- Ear plugs
- Electric winches
- Exhaust fans
- Eyewash facilities
- Face shields
- Fall arrest systems
- Flat trowels
- Floor grinding machines
- Floor polishers
Technology
- Aya Associates Comp-U-Floor
- EasyCAD Iris 2D
- Measure Square FloorEstimate Pro
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft operating system
- Salesforce software
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- order or purchase supplies, materials, or equipment
- advise clients or customers
- measure tile or masonry materials
- verify levelness or verticality, using level or plumb bob
- use hand or power tools
- use measuring devices in construction or extraction work
- use concrete fabrication techniques
- lay out masonry work
- adhere to safety procedures
- perform safety inspections in construction or resource extraction setting
- understand construction specifications
- estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
- determine material or tool requirements
- select masonry material to be installed according to specifications
- apply adhesives, caulking, sealants, or coatings
- climb ladders, scaffolding, or utility or telephone poles
- build or repair structures in construction, repair, or manufacturing setting
- erect scaffold
- install prefabricated building components
- lay or install brick, block, stone, tile, or related masonry material
- move or fit heavy objects
- prepare site or surfaces for concrete or masonry work
- apply plaster, stucco or related material
- install lathing to support plaster, stucco, or related construction material
- repair cracks, defects, or damage in installed building materials
- repair or replace damaged bricks, tile, or related masonry
- cut or shape stone, tile, brick, or related material
- mix mortar, grout, slurry, concrete, or related masonry material
- read blueprints
- read tape measure
- read technical drawings
- apply grouting or other masonry adhesives
- mix paint, ingredients, or chemicals, according to specifications
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Cut and shape tile to fit around obstacles and into odd spaces and corners, using hand and power cutting tools.
- Align and straighten tile using levels, squares, and straightedges.
- Lay and set mosaic tiles to create decorative wall, mural, and floor designs.
- Prepare cost and labor estimates, based on calculations of time and materials needed for project.
- Determine and implement the best layout to achieve a desired pattern.
- Measure and mark surfaces to be tiled, following blueprints.
- Finish and dress the joints and wipe excess grout from between tiles, using damp sponge.
- Study blueprints and examine surface to be covered to determine amount of material needed.
- Mix, apply, and spread plaster, concrete, mortar, cement, mastic, glue or other adhesives to form a bed for the tiles, using brush, trowel and screed.
- Cut, surface, polish, and install marble and granite or install pre-cast terrazzo, granite or marble units.
- Apply mortar to tile back, position the tile, and press or tap with trowel handle to affix tile to base.
- Level concrete and allow to dry.
- Spread mastic or other adhesive base on roof deck to form base for promenade tile, using serrated spreader.
- Cut tile backing to required size, using shears.
- Prepare surfaces for tiling by attaching lath or waterproof paper, or by applying a cement mortar coat to a metal screen.
- Mix and apply mortar or cement to edges and ends of drain tiles to seal halves and joints.
- Remove and replace cracked or damaged tile.
- Install and anchor fixtures in designated positions, using hand tools.
- Apply a sealer to make grout stain- and water-resistant.
- Assist customers in selection of tile and grout.
- Select and order tile and other items to be installed, such as bathroom accessories, walls, panels, and cabinets, according to specifications.
- Remove any old tile, grout and adhesive using chisels and scrapers and clean the surface carefully.
- Measure and cut metal lath to size for walls and ceilings, using tin snips.
- Build underbeds and install anchor bolts, wires, and brackets.
- Brush glue onto manila paper on which design has been drawn and position tiles, finished side down, onto paper.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Carpet, floor, and tile installers and finishers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn More