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Trades & Construction

How to become a Roofer

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there
2–6 months
Typical pay
$40k–$58k
Starting from
No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

See roofer jobs open now

The route

  1. Get hired as a roofing labourer

    Almost no crew requires experience. Expect heat, ladders and heavy loads from day one.

    Typical titles at this level

    • Roofing labourer
    • Helper

  2. Learn fall protection properly

    Roofing has one of the highest fatality rates in construction. This is not a formality.

    Course that covers thisOSHA 30-Hour Construction Practice Test 2026Udemy · around $19.99

  3. Learn a system end to end

    Shingle, then flat or metal. Commercial flat roofing pays better and runs year-round.

  4. Move to foreman or estimating

    Crews need people who can run a job and talk to a homeowner. Few can do both.

  5. Destination

    Roofer

    Browse jobs now

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