Roofer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the construction industry, the demand for skilled roofers is constantly on the rise.
As buildings and infrastructures continue to emerge, the need for skilled professionals who can construct, maintain, and repair roofs becomes more critical.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a roofer?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
- A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of roofing,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable roofer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Roofer Duties and Responsibilities
Roofers perform a wide range of tasks including inspecting, repairing, and installing roofs.
They work with various types of materials including asphalt, rubber, metal, and more.
Roofers are primarily responsible for providing clients with sturdy and weatherproof roofs, with daily duties and responsibilities including:
- Inspecting roofs to determine the necessary repairs or replacements
- Measuring and cutting materials to fit the roof properly
- Installing roofing materials such as asphalt, shingles, and metal
- Repairing damaged roofs, including leaks and structural damages
- Using safety equipment to prevent falls or accidents
- Clearing debris and maintaining cleanliness at the job site
- Communicating with clients to provide estimates and updates on the project
- Maintaining tools and equipment for roofing work
Roofer Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a skilled roofer to join our team.
You will be responsible for repairing, replacing, and installing roofs on residential or commercial buildings.
The ideal candidate will have experience with various roofing systems, be able to perform physically demanding tasks, and have a keen attention to detail.
The role of the roofer is to ensure that all jobs are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety.
Responsibilities
- Inspect problem roofs to determine the best repair procedures
- Remove old roofing materials
- Install roofing materials such as asphalt, wood, and metal
- Work with team members to complete projects within established guidelines and timelines
- Install insulation and vapor barriers
- Apply shingles, gravel, or asphalt over the top layer of roofs
- Ensure that job sites are cleaned and cleared of debris
- Perform roofing maintenance and inspections
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a roofer
- Knowledge of various roofing systems
- Ability to lift heavy materials and work at heights
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Completion of a roofer apprenticeship program or vocational training may be required
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Ongoing professional development
- Workplace safety training
Additional Information
- Job Title: Roofer
- Work Environment: Field work, primarily outdoors. Physical fitness and ability to work in various weather conditions are important.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Roofing Supervisor or Construction Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- 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 Roofer Do?
Roofers are specialized professionals who work on the construction, repair, and maintenance of roofs.
They typically work for construction companies, roofing companies or as self-employed individuals, providing services to both residential and commercial clients.
Roofers are responsible for inspecting roofs to determine the best course of action, whether it is repairing a small leak, replacing a few shingles, or conducting a complete roof replacement.
They install roofing materials such as asphalt, wood, steel, tile, and other materials, ensuring that they are appropriately sealed, insulated and ventilated.
Roofers also measure and cut roofing materials to fit around vents, gutters, and walls.
Moreover, they also install insulation and vapor barriers, and cut materials to fit corners and against walls.
Some roofers may specialize in specific types of roofing like solar, green, or metal roofing.
Safety is a major aspect of a roofer’s job, as they are required to use safety equipment and follow strict safety guidelines due to the risk associated with working at heights.
They may also provide consultations, advising clients on the types of roofing materials to use, and estimating the cost and time required to complete the roofing project.
Roofer Qualifications and Skills
A proficient roofer should possess a mix of technical skills, physical abilities, and professional expertise, such as:
- Technical knowledge of different roofing systems and materials, and the skill to install, repair, and replace them.
- Physical strength and stamina to carry heavy materials, tools, and equipment, and to work in varying weather conditions.
- Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify issues related to roofing systems efficiently and effectively.
- Attention to detail and precision to ensure the roofing work is performed accurately, with no leaks or other issues.
- Safety consciousness to follow all safety guidelines and regulations, and to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the job site.
- Customer service skills to understand client needs, communicate effectively, and ensure client satisfaction with the roofing work.
- Time management skills to complete projects on schedule, accurately estimating the time needed for various tasks.
- Ability to work at heights, with proper balance and coordination, given the elevated nature of most roofing jobs.
Roofer Experience Requirements
Entry-level roofers typically have no or minimal experience.
They often start as roofing helpers, learning the basics of roofing materials, tools, and safety procedures on the job under the supervision of experienced roofers.
Most roofers, however, attend a technical school or complete an apprenticeship program to gain hands-on experience and learn the fundamentals of the trade.
This usually includes learning to install, repair, and replace different types of roofing systems, work with various materials like asphalt, wood, and metal, and follow safety procedures.
After approximately 1 to 2 years, roofers typically have enough experience to move on to a full-time roofer position.
They may be expected to handle more complex tasks such as identifying potential roof problems, creating detailed work plans, and completing large-scale roofing projects.
Roofers with more than 3 years of experience often have developed advanced skills in roofing techniques and materials, as well as customer service.
They may also have experience with roof inspection and diagnosing more complex roofing issues.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience and could be considered for positions such as roofing supervisor or team leader.
They are typically skilled in managing teams, training new roofers, and overseeing large-scale projects while ensuring safety and quality standards.
Roofer Education and Training Requirements
Roofers do not typically need a formal education, with the majority learning their skills through on-the-job training as roofing helpers.
Many vocational schools, community colleges, and independent contractors offer apprenticeship programs which provide a solid knowledge base in the principles of roofing.
These apprenticeships, which can last up to three years, combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Some states require roofers to be licensed, although the requirements vary greatly.
Generally, to obtain a license, one must have a certain amount of experience and pass a licensing exam.
The exam covers knowledge of trade skills, codes, and safety regulations.
Although not required, many roofers pursue certification to validate their skills and experience, enhance their employability, and potentially increase their earnings.
Certifications can be obtained through various organizations and usually involve passing an exam and demonstrating a certain level of professional experience.
Continuing education may be necessary to maintain certification or licensure, with requirements varying by state.
Roofer Salary Expectations
A roofer can expect to earn an average salary of $18.70 (USD) per hour.
However, the actual earnings can vary widely based on factors such as experience, the complexity of the roofing job, geographical location, and the company for which they work.
Roofer Job Description FAQs
What skills does a roofer need?
Roofers need physical stamina and strength as the job involves heavy lifting and climbing.
They should have excellent balance to work on roofs and steep pitches, and a strong attention to detail to identify potential issues or defects in roofing systems.
Roofers also require skills in various types of roofing materials and methods, as well as the use of related tools and equipment.
Do roofers need a degree?
Roofers don’t need a degree, but they typically learn the trade through a formal apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Some roofers learn their skills informally, on the job, under the supervision of experienced workers.
A high school diploma or equivalent is often required to enter an apprenticeship program.
What should you look for in a roofer’s resume?
Look for experience in the specific type of roofing your project requires, as well as general construction skills.
Check for certifications from roofing manufacturers, safety training, and, if required by your area, a valid roofing or contractor’s license.
Consider their physical fitness and any special skills like metalwork or carpentry.
What qualities make a good roofer?
A good roofer is physically fit and unafraid of heights, with excellent balance to stay safe on the job.
They should be reliable, able to work independently, and possess good problem-solving skills to identify and correct potential issues.
Good roofers are detail-oriented, ensuring all tasks are completed thoroughly and to the highest standard.
What are the challenges of hiring roofers?
Hiring roofers can be challenging due to the physical demands and risks associated with the job, which may limit the pool of applicants.
It’s also a profession that requires significant on-the-job training, so finding experienced workers may be difficult.
Additionally, ensuring that roofers have the required licenses and certifications can be a time-consuming part of the hiring process.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a roofer.
Surprise!
It’s not just about laying shingles.
It’s about constructing the protective layer of our dwellings, one shingle at a time.
With our comprehensive roofer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.
But why limit yourself?
Expand your horizon with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every shingle laid is part of a larger structure.
Let’s build that future. Together.
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