Roofer
4NOT A FORECAST49%
A roofer fits, repairs and maintains roofs on homes and buildings, keeping them weatherproof and sound. It is skilled, physical outdoor work that suits practical, head-for-heights people who like working with their hands and seeing a solid result.
THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.
AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.
The work is measuring and preparing roofs, laying tiles, slates or felt, fitting flashing and guttering, and repairing leaks and damage. Physical fitness, a head for heights and care with safety matter enormously, since you work high up in all weathers and a careless moment can be dangerous.
You may work for a firm or be self-employed, travelling between jobs, doing demanding outdoor work that is weather-dependent and busier in better seasons, with pay that grows well with skill. Working at height is a real hazard, so safety equipment and good practice are essential every day.
Most people learn through a roofing apprenticeship or on the job alongside experienced roofers. A CSCS card is usually needed for sites, training in working safely at height is essential, and a driving licence helps you reach jobs.