The role covers unloading materials and tools from the work truck, unrolling roofing as directed, and setting up ladders, scaffolds, or hoists so materials can be brought up to the roof. Helpers also check finished roofs for watertightness and clear gutters, drains, and downspouts as part of the job. The work happens outdoors, often at heights, which is why specialized protective equipment is standard on the job site.
Pros
Faster than average projected job growth (5.7%) over the next decade
Low barrier to entry: just a high school diploma, a common path into roofing trades
Pay can reach over $62k with experience despite modest entry requirements
Cons
A relatively small number of positions nationwide (around 600) limits opportunities
Physically demanding outdoor work at heights, exposed to weather year-round
Regular exposure to hazardous equipment and conditions working on ladders, scaffolds, and roofs
A typical day
Materials go up before the sun gets hot: the helper loads shingle bundles onto the lift, sets ladders at the correct angle, and rolls out tarps to protect the landscaping below. Once tear-off starts, the helper's world is motion — forking old shingles into the dumpster, pulling stray nails with a magnet roller, and keeping the deck swept so the roofers can move safely. Midday means handing up underlayment, chalking lines, and learning to carry a bundle across a sloped surface without wasting steps. Hydration breaks are mandatory and real. The day closes with the site inspection every good crew does: magnet-sweep the lawn, stack leftover materials, and tarp anything the weather could touch overnight.
Tasks at the job
Clean work areas and equipment.
Check to ensure that completed roofs are watertight.
Maintain tools and equipment.
Unload materials and tools from work trucks, and unroll roofing as directed.
Set ladders, scaffolds, and hoists in place for taking supplies to roofs.
Clear drains and downspouts and clean gutters.
Workplace & working conditions
Work happens primarily outdoors, exposed to whatever the weather is doing, and most of the day is spent on your feet. Noise levels can be distracting or uncomfortable. The role involves regular exposure to hazardous equipment or conditions and contaminants and working at heights, and specialized protective equipment is standard.
Education necessary or common
High school diploma; some on-the-job training or apprenticeship
Licenses & certifications
OSHA 10-Hour Construction with fall protection training
Manufacturer installation certifications (GAF, Owens Corning) — free training that raises your value