Roofer

A Roofer installs, repairs, and replaces roofing materials such as shingles, tiles, and waterproof membranes on residential and commercial buildings, often working at significant heights. This role requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and skill in various roofing techniques and materials to ensure durable and watertight structures. Ensures the structural integrity and weather protection of buildings, safeguarding property and occupants from environmental damage, and contributing to the longevity of homes and commercial structures.

A Roofer earns a median of $55,000 per year in the US, typically ranging from $35,000 to $80,000.

To become a Roofer, high school diploma or equivalent, often followed by an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. State roofing contractor license (for self-employed or business owners, varies by state).

Roofer roles tend to suit people who are highly conscientious — precise, organised and strong on follow-through (Conscientiousness 75/100) and steady under pressure — deadlines and setbacks do not rattle them easily (Emotional Stability 70/100). The traits that matter most in the role are Practical, Conscientious, Independent and Cooperative. Enjoys tangible tasks and seeing concrete results from physical effort, preferring established methods over abstract ideas. On interests, Roofer maps to a RCE Holland Code profile — individuals who enjoy hands-on, practical work, problem-solving, and working in structured environments often find this role rewarding. It combines physical activity with attention to detail and safety.

A Roofer role is usually a strong fit for these reasons. Strong Realistic (R) alignment: the role is highly practical, hands-on, and involves working with tools and physical tasks. High Conscientiousness is crucial for adhering to strict safety protocols and ensuring meticulous work quality. A significant portion of the week is dedicated to deep work, focusing on installation and repair tasks.

Roofer roles come with trade-offs worth weighing up. Requires significant physical stamina and comfort working at heights and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Can be physically demanding with heavy lifting and repetitive motions. Limited opportunities for highly social or creative tasks.

Work as a Roofer is mostly outdoors-based with onsite arrangements common, semi-structured — a mix of set processes and self-directed work and medium exposure to clients or stakeholders. Around 75% of the week is focused deep work.

Core skills for a Roofer include Roofing installation techniques, Material handling, Safety procedures, Blueprint reading and Problem-solving (leak detection).

Common entry routes into Roofer roles include Construction Laborer, Roofing Apprentice and General Laborer.

From a Roofer role, common next steps include Senior Roofer, Roofing Foreman, Construction Supervisor and Roofing Contractor / Business Owner.

The outlook for Roofer roles is currently rated stable. Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Traitstack rates automation risk for Roofer roles at 15 out of 100, which is low. AI will assist with roof inspections and material estimation, but the demanding physical work of installing, repairing, and waterproofing structures at height requires human skill and judgment. AI is most likely to take on analyze drone imagery to detect roof damage and wear patterns, calculate precise material quantities for repairs or replacements and generate optimal installation plans for various roofing materials. Physically removing old roofing materials and preparing surfaces, lifting and installing heavy roofing materials (shingles, panels, membranes) and precisely sealing seams, flashings, and edges to prevent leaks stay with people. Smarter site analysis, enduring human physical craftsmanship. That score measures how much of the work could change, not the likelihood the job disappears. It is Traitstack's current view, revisited as AI capability moves.