Tile and Stone Setters
O*NET 47-2044.00 · SOC 47-2044
Tile and Stone Setter is a strong career choice. Median pay is $56k a year with +9.8% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 3,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Mix and apply mortar or adhesive to surfaces before setting tile.
- →Cut tiles using wet saws or tile cutters to fit edges.
- →Set ceramic, porcelain, or stone tiles in straight, even patterns.
- →Apply and smooth grout between tiles after adhesive cures.
- →Seal grout lines and tile surfaces to prevent moisture penetration.
Education & How to Get In
Tile and Stone Setter roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Tile and Stone Setter involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Tile and Stone Setter?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Tile and Stone Setter Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Tile and Stone Setters is projected to grow 9.8% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·47% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Tile and Stone Setter make?
The median Tile and Stone Setter earns $56k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Tile and Stone Setter jobs?
Our model puts Tile and Stone Setter at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 47% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Tile and Stone Setter a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 9.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 3,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Tile and Stone Setter?
Most Tile and Stone Setter roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Tile and Stone Setter?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Tile and Stone Setter career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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