According to estimates from France Travail, construction employers have posted 35,370 job openings for drywall installers between January 2024 and February 2025. The vast majority of these positions are divided among permanent contracts (27%), temporary contracts, and apprenticeship contracts (67%). In fact, the lack of qualified candidates and the profession’s lack of appeal have made this the second construction trade to face a labor shortage (Batirama). As renovation projects take precedence over new construction, how can you can you successfully change careers and become a drywall installer ?
The drywall installer creates interior spaces in new construction or renovation projects. By erecting walls and partitions, they divide the building into several functional rooms for personal or professional use. That is why they typically begin work after the structural workis complete, just like the plumber or the painter.
The panels he installs are all prefabricated and mounted on metal frames. The drywall panels (or placo) are the most common. This is because they are versatile, easy to handle, economical, and their surface is smooth enough for finishing (Atelier Paul). However, to optimize insulation or fire resistance, the drywall installer may use other materials such as (Parachevement Shop):
As for wood, it is more durable and quite sturdy. Panels of this type are manufactured using several different methods: particleboard, melamine-faced, OSB, plywood, laminate, etc. (Dispano).
A drywall installer doesn't just put up partitions to create new rooms. He also installs suspended ceilings and wall linings to improve the thermal and acoustic insulation of walls and ceilings. The panels are glued to the gypsum board are generally made of mineral wool or synthetic materials (expanded polystyrene, polyurethane) (Placo).
Next, he applies the joints to join the drywall panels together. These come in the form of joint tape (paper or fiberglass) orcoatings made from plaster or carbonate. The fillers smooth the surfaces beforehand, while the tape protects them in preparation for the final finish (paint or wallpaper).
Finally, he completes his tasks by installing the door and window frames, frames, and posts for the interior (Manpower). They may also install decorative elements such as baseboards, fireplace surrounds, or plaster moldings (molding, rosettes).
Since he works inside a building, the drywall installer isn't affected by bad weather on the job site. There are numerous job openings: more than 3,000 in March 2025, according to the latest estimates on Hellowork. In fact, its role in insulating walls or ceilings is a crucial step in energy-efficient renovation of buildings. If the candidate has sufficient experience, they can negotiate a salary and working conditions that meet their expectations.
According to the construction schedule management, drywall installers may work overtime depending on the demands of the job site. Their work is very physically demanding, as they remain on their feet and may carry heavy loads throughout the day. In addition to drywall panels, they carry bags of plaster or set up scaffolding to prepare for their tasks.
Depending on the tools he uses, he is particularly exposed to the dangers of construction dust. As a mineral dust, plaster can cause allergic reactions, asthma, and even lead to serious respiratory illnesses without proper protection. That is why wearingpersonal protective equipment (PPE) follows a strict protocol to ensure safety on the job site.
The installation of panels or partitions requires a high degree of precision. After reviewing the blueprints, the drywall installer uses his tools (square, drill, level) with precision and safety in mind. Finishing with joint compound requires care and speed, since fast-setting plaster mixes dry quickly. This does not prevent the installer from demonstrating creativity to customize the interior design according to the client’s expectations.
The working conditions described above require good stamina and good health. Even though this work takes place after the structural work is complete, it is in the worker’s best interest to work closely with other construction tradespeople in order to avoid rework. In addition to their knowledge of insulation, there’s no reason they shouldn’t have skills in other areas—such as masonry—to install plaster bricks (Attic Insulation).
The courses to become a drywall installer are the same as those required to become a a plasterer. Although the two trades do not involve the same tasks, they are often combined to provide a comprehensive service. The training programs are as follows, depending on the number of years of study after the Brevet (CIDJ):
The trade of drywall installer is regulated, as these professionals must comply with specific technical standards that ensure their safety as well as that of consumers. Starting a drywall contractor business requires obtaining a certificate of professional qualification. This can be obtained from your Chamber of Trades and Crafts. You can also demonstrate your qualifications by presenting your CAP or BEP or by providing proof of 3 years of experience (Legal Place).
Plasterboard installers are constantly taking training courses to keep up with new materials and installation techniques. After several years of experience, they can pursue a number of different career paths (Samsic Jobs):
A drywall installer just starting out earns the minimum wage, or about 1,300 net (Batiactu). This salary then increases based on years of experience, as well as the region where the professional works. In fact, a drywall installer in the Île-de-France region earns an average gross salary of between 25,000 and 28,000 euros per year (Hellowork).
When his status changes, his pay increases. Thus, a plasterboard team leader earns up to 45,000 euros gross annually. A self-employed tradesperson can earn up to 60,000 euros gross annually, provided they have a solid client base (Hellowork). As a self-employed entrepreneur, their ability to market themselves is also crucial for sustaining their business. With this in mind, enlisting the help of construction industry influencers proves to be a sound long-term strategy.
The trade of drywall installer offers numerous job opportunities thanks to the growing demand for energy-efficiency renovation projects. It requires a high degree of precision, attention to detail, and good physical condition. However, after completing a short training program, career prospects are varied and lead to attractive salaries.
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