Commercial Tile Setter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of building and construction, the demand for commercial tile setters has never been higher.

As architectural trends evolve and the sophistication of design aesthetics intensifies, the call for skilled professionals who can execute, enhance, and preserve our commercial tiling systems becomes louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a commercial tile setter?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the artistry and intricacies of commercial tiling,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable commercial tile setter job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Commercial Tile Setter Duties and Responsibilities

Commercial Tile Setters are responsible for installing tiles on walls, ceilings, countertops, and floors in commercial buildings such as offices, restaurants, and stores.

They work with a variety of materials including ceramics, glass, stone, and porcelain.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Reading blueprints or architectural plans to understand the layout and placement of the tiles
• Calculating the amount of materials needed, including tiles and adhesive, and ordering the necessary supplies
• Preparing surfaces for tiling, which might include cleaning, smoothing, or leveling the area
• Laying out tiles to determine the best placement and creating a visual mockup for clients
• Cutting and shaping tiles to fit around obstacles and into odd spaces and corners
• Applying adhesive to the back of tiles and setting them in place on the surface
• Grouting the spaces between tiles and cleaning the surface to remove excess grout and adhesive
• Sealing tiled surfaces to make them watertight
• Performing repairs on damaged tiles, including removing and replacing broken pieces
• Following safety standards and procedures to ensure a safe work environment

 

Commercial Tile Setter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a skilled Commercial Tile Setter to join our construction team.

The candidate will be responsible for measuring and cutting tiles, installing them in commercial spaces and applying grout to finish the look.

Our ideal candidate has experience with various types of tiles and adhesive methods, is detail-oriented, and can handle tools like trowels and tile cutters with ease.

Ultimately, the role of the Commercial Tile Setter is to create functional and visually appealing surfaces according to project specifications while ensuring high-quality workmanship that upholds company standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Measure and cut tiles to fit in specific spaces as per project requirements
• Prepare surfaces for tiling, including removal of old tiles, patching, and cleaning
• Install tiles in a variety of patterns using different types of adhesive
• Apply grout with a rubber trowel and wipe off excess
• Seal and buff tiles as needed
• Handle delicate materials like porcelain or glass tiles with care
• Report on progress to supervisors and project managers
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations
• Attend to minor repair or maintenance tasks
• Adhere to all construction standards and practices

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Commercial Tile Setter
• Experience with power tools and hand tools
• Ability to read blueprints and visualize the finished product
• Excellent attention to detail and precision
• Capability to lift and carry heavy materials
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid certification in tile setting or apprenticeship experience is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Commercial Tile Setter
• Work Environment: This role involves physical labor and requires working in a variety of environments, including indoor and outdoor commercial sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Construction Project Manager or Site Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Commercial Tile Setter Do?

Commercial Tile Setters work in various industries including construction, renovation, and interior design.

Their primary role is to install tiles on walls, floors, ceilings, and other surfaces in commercial spaces such as offices, restaurants, malls, and other public areas.

Their job involves measuring and cutting tiles to fit the assigned areas using hand and power tools.

They prepare the surfaces by cleaning and leveling them before laying the tiles.

They use different materials such as ceramic, porcelain, glass, and natural stone to create durable and aesthetically pleasing surfaces.

They also work with different patterns and designs as per the project requirements.

In addition to laying tiles, Commercial Tile Setters are responsible for repairing and replacing damaged tiles.

They apply grout with a rubber trowel and wipe off excess grout from the tile surface.

They work closely with clients, architects, and interior designers to ensure the tile work aligns with the overall design and aesthetic of the space.

They also ensure to meet project deadlines and maintain high standards of workmanship.

Some Commercial Tile Setters may specialize in a specific type of tile or design work, while others may have expertise in a wide range of tile installation techniques.

They are also expected to adhere to safety protocols at all times during their work.

 

Commercial Tile Setter Qualifications and Skills

A commercial tile setter should have the skills and qualifications that align with this specialized job role, which includes:

• Manual dexterity and physical stamina to handle tools, machines, and materials while standing, bending, or kneeling for extended periods.
• Experience in cutting and shaping tiles to fit around obstacles and into odd spaces and corners, using hand and power cutting tools.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and layouts for understanding project specifications and to ensure accurate tile placement.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues that may arise during the tile setting process, such as uneven surfaces or irregular shapes.
• Attention to detail and precision to ensure proper alignment and leveling of tiles during installation.
• Technical knowledge of various types of tile materials and installation techniques to provide the best solution for each project.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills to work effectively with clients, other tradespeople, and team members.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and regulations in order to create a safe working environment.

 

Commercial Tile Setter Experience Requirements

Commercial Tile Setters typically begin their career path with vocational training or an apprenticeship in tile setting or a related field.

This allows them to gain hands-on experience in handling different types of tiles, understanding tile layouts, and using various tools and equipment required in the role.

For entry-level positions, employers usually seek candidates with at least 1 to 2 years of experience in tile setting or a similar construction role.

During this period, tile setters should have developed basic skills such as interpreting blueprints, measuring and cutting tiles, and installing tiles in a variety of environments.

Candidates for more advanced roles should have at least 3 to 5 years of experience.

This experience should have equipped them with advanced skills such as designing complex tile patterns, making on-the-spot adjustments for unexpected obstacles, and efficiently managing materials and time.

For a supervisory or managerial role in commercial tile setting, candidates often need more than 5 years of experience.

They should have demonstrated leadership skills, have experience in managing teams, and possess a deep understanding of the industry’s safety regulations and standards.

In addition, certification from a recognized industry organization, like the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation, can be an added advantage and may be required by some employers.

 

Commercial Tile Setter Education and Training Requirements

Commercial Tile Setters typically have a high school diploma or equivalent level of education.

They usually gain their skills through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational schools.

An apprenticeship program can last from 2-4 years and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training.

The classroom instruction generally covers layout work, pattern design, safety practices, and the use of different tools and equipment.

The hands-on training, supervised by experienced tile setters, involves actual tile setting tasks.

There is no specific requirement for a college degree, but courses in mathematics, blueprint reading, and vocational-technical subjects can be beneficial.

In some states, Commercial Tile Setters may need to be licensed.

The licensing process usually involves passing an exam that tests knowledge of the trade and the local building codes.

Continuing education is encouraged as it keeps tile setters updated with the latest tile installation methods, materials, and trends.

Some may also pursue certification from the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) to further demonstrate their proficiency and commitment to the profession.

Experience is highly valued in this field, so it is recommended that aspiring Commercial Tile Setters gain as much practical experience as possible.

 

Commercial Tile Setter Salary Expectations

A Commercial Tile Setter can expect to earn an average wage of $20.67 (USD) per hour.

However, earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, certification, location, and the size of the project or company they are working for.

 

Commercial Tile Setter Job Description FAQs

What skills does a commercial tile setter need?

Commercial Tile Setters need to have excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to work with precision.

They should have knowledge of different types of tiles, grouts, and adhesive materials.

In addition, they should have strong math skills for accurate measurements and calculations.

Problem-solving skills are essential to tackle any challenges that arise during installation.

Furthermore, they should be physically fit as the job often involves lifting heavy materials and working in various positions.

 

Do commercial tile setters need a certification?

Certification is not always required for commercial tile setters, but it can enhance their job prospects.

Some trade schools and community colleges offer certificate programs in tile setting or related fields.

However, a significant amount of learning happens on the job, either through informal apprenticeships or on-the-job training.

 

What should you look for in a commercial tile setter’s resume?

Look for a clear demonstration of skill and experience in tile setting on the candidate’s resume.

This could include specific projects they’ve worked on, types of tiles they’ve worked with, and the environments they’ve worked in (e.g., commercial, residential, indoor, outdoor).

Check for any certifications or trainings they’ve completed.

Also, references from previous employers can be valuable to assess their reliability and work ethic.

 

What qualities make a good commercial tile setter?

A good commercial tile setter is meticulous, with a keen eye for detail to ensure precision in their work.

They should be reliable, able to work within deadlines and committed to delivering high-quality results.

Physical stamina is important as this job often involves long hours of manual labor.

Additionally, good commercial tile setters should have excellent communication skills to understand clients’ requirements and collaborate effectively with other construction professionals.

 

Is it difficult to hire commercial tile setters?

The difficulty in hiring commercial tile setters largely depends on the market conditions and location.

In regions where construction activity is high, there may be a shortage of skilled tile setters, making recruitment more challenging.

To attract qualified candidates, employers may need to offer competitive wages, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricate details behind the role of a commercial tile setter.

Guess what?

It’s not just about laying tiles.

It’s about creating captivating designs, one tile at a time.

With our handy commercial tile setter job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to advance.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step towards crafting meticulous job listings or honing your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every tile set contributes to the overall design.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.

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