Tiler
4AI CAN DO4%moving to49%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAYnot published
MOAT NOT YET CLASSIFIEDA real score, but the moat is not yet classified. No claim either way.
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM CONSTRUCTION & TRADES →
Tiler
A tiler fits tiles to walls and floors in kitchens, bathrooms and other spaces, creating a neat, durable, waterproof finish. It is a skilled trade that suits precise, patient people who like working with their hands and take pride in a clean, well-set result.
AI can do very little of this work today
Hands-on work, caring for people and dealing with the real world are among the hardest things to automate, and this job leans on them. We have not yet formally classified its moat, so we make no claim either way, but the exposure score speaks for itself.
The role
The work is measuring and planning layouts, preparing surfaces, cutting and fixing tiles, then grouting and finishing for a neat, level result. A good eye, precision and patience matter, since uneven or badly cut tiles show clearly, and you work with adhesives, cutting tools and sometimes awkward spaces.
You may work for a firm or be self-employed, travelling between jobs, doing physical work that involves kneeling, lifting and dust, with busier spells when building and renovation pick up. Pay grows well with skill and reputation, and self-employed tilers carry the ups and downs of finding work.
Most people learn through a tiling apprenticeship or college course, then build speed and skill on the job. A CSCS card is often needed for sites, a driving licence helps, and a reputation for tidy, accurate work brings repeat business.
Daily responsibilities
- Measure and plan tile layouts
- Prepare and level surfaces
- Cut tiles to fit edges and corners
- Fix tiles with adhesive
- Grout and seal for a neat finish
- Clean up and dispose of waste
- Quote jobs and manage work if self-employed