AVM Group
Drywall Finisher & Taping Apprenticeship
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Drywall Finisher & Tapper Role Overview
A Drywall Finisher and Tapper is an essential surface-finishing specialist who transforms raw drywall wallboards into seamless, architectural environments. Tappers prepare wall and ceiling assemblies for high-gloss paint, wallcoverings, or specialized protective coatings by embedding reinforcement tape, applying multi-coat joint compound ("mud"), and precision-sanding joints, fasteners, and corner beads. Tappers operate automatic taping tools ("bazookas"), power mixers, mechanical finishing boxes, stilts, and dust-contained vacuum sanding systems while adhering to strict Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) and contamination-control protocols.
Key Responsibilities - Apprenticeship Duties
Training
- Classroom Instruction (3-Year Commitment): Attend 1 full week (40 hours) of intensive block-schedule training every quarter (160 hours/year).
- Primary Ohio Training Facilities for the Drywall Finishing and Taping Apprentices:
- Cleveland Campus (Northeast OH): 8257 Dow Cir, Strongsville, OH 44136
- Columbus Campus (Central OH): 840 Harrison Ave, Columbus, OH 43215
- Toledo Campus (Northwest OH): 144 S. St. Clair St, Toledo, OH 43604
- Cincinnati Campus (Southwest OH): 200 Tri-County Pkwy, Cincinnati, OH 45246
- On-the-Job Training: Drywall Installer and Tapper Apprentices will complete 1,500 hours of paid, on-the-job training annually under experienced Journeymen.
Core Competencies
- Strong Work Ethic & Reliability: Punctual, dependable, and committed to showing up ready to work every day.
- Curiosity: Active listening skills and a strong desire to learn.
- Growth Mindset & Receptivity: Takes direction and constructive critique positively to continuously improve work quality.
- Safety Mindset: Proactive commitment to job site safety and strict adherence to OSHA regulations.
- Team Collaboration: Ability to work productively alongside Journeymen and peers.
- Detail-Oriented Problem Solving: Sharp attention to detail and ability to think critically when site conditions change.
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Apprenticeship Program Requirements
Enrollment Eligibility
- Minimum 17 years of age to apply (18 to begin work on job sites).
- Must pass a mandatory pre-employment and random substance abuse screening.
- Must secure an "Intent to Hire" letter from an approved union signatory contractor to receive a work permit card and begin orientation.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation to travel to various job sites and regional training centers.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to perform demanding physical labor in various environmental conditions.
- Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver materials weighing up to 75 lbs.
- Physical stamina to stand, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and work at elevated heights.
- Excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and spatial reasoning.
Required Documents During Application
- Legal work authorization: Valid state-issued photo ID, birth certificate, and legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Education: High school diploma, GED equivalent, or documentation of 1,500 hours of trade work experience.
- DD214 form (for military veterans applying via Helmets to Hardhats).
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Benefits
- Full-time employment
- Employer-paid health insurance which includes:
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Pension/annuity contributions
- Full health benefit coverage begins after 90 days in the program.
Educational Accreditation
The Drywall Finishing and Taping Apprenticeship program will earn you up to 30 tuition-free college credits evaluated through the American Council on Education (ACE) toward an Associate Degree. Degree partner institutions include Empire State University, Columbia Southern University, Rowan University, and Pittsburg State University, alongside regional accredited community colleges.
Free Tuition
Tuition is 100% employer-funded with zero student debt.
Compensation
Base Rates As of May of 2026, the current taxable Journeyman Drywall Finisher and Tapper base rates in Ohio range from approximately $36.40/hour depending on the regional zone/county.
Fringe Benefits
The total package exceeds $59.16/hour when including employer-paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision) and pension/annuity contributions. Full health benefit coverage begins after 90 days in the program.
Wage Scale Progression
Apprentices receive a bi-annual percentage progression of the full Journeyman wage scale, based on completing required work hours and training blocks.
Equal Opportunity Employer
We consider candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
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