[Core] [66% incumbents] Press paper tape over joints to embed tape into sealing compound and to seal joints.
  DWAs: Apply sealants or other protective coatings.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Apply additional coats to fill in holes and make surfaces smooth.
  DWAs: Apply material to fill gaps in surfaces.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Seal joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare wall surfaces for painting or papering.
  DWAs: Apply material to fill gaps in surfaces.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Spread and smooth cementing material over tape, using trowels or floating machines to blend joints with wall surfaces.
  DWAs: Apply adhesives to construction materials.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Mix sealing compounds by hand or with portable electric mixers.
  DWAs: Mix substances or compounds needed for work activities.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Work on high ceilings, using scaffolding or other tools, such as stilts.
  DWAs: Climb equipment or structures to access work areas.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Select the correct sealing compound or tape.
  DWAs: Select construction materials.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Countersink nails or screws below surfaces of walls before applying sealing compounds, using hammers or screwdrivers.
  DWAs: Drill holes in construction materials.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Apply texturizing compounds or primers to walls or ceilings before final finishing, using trowels, brushes, rollers, or spray guns.
  DWAs: Prepare surfaces for finishing.

[Core] [66% incumbents] Check adhesives to ensure that they will work and will remain durable.
  DWAs: Evaluate quality of materials or products.

[Core] [65% incumbents] Spread sealing compound between boards or panels or over cracks, holes, nail heads, or screw heads, using trowels, broadknives, or spatulas.
  DWAs: Apply sealants or other protective coatings.

[Core] [65% incumbents] Sand or patch nicks or cracks in plasterboard or wallboard.
  DWAs: Smooth surfaces with abrasive materials or tools.

[Core] [65% incumbents] Sand rough spots of dried cement between applications of compounds.
  DWAs: Smooth surfaces with abrasive materials or tools.

[Core] [65% incumbents] Use mechanical applicators that spread compounds and embed tape in one operation.
  DWAs: Apply adhesives to construction materials.

[Core] [64% incumbents] Install metal molding at wall corners to secure wallboard.
  DWAs: Install metal structural components.

[Core] [63% incumbents] Remove extra compound after surfaces have been covered sufficiently.
  DWAs: Remove excess materials from finished construction projects.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Speaking (imp:2.88 lvl:2.12) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Monitoring (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Critical Thinking (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Reading Comprehension (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Learning (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Writing (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Mathematics (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Science (imp:1.12 lvl:0.25) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Building and Construction (imp:4.03 lvl:4.19) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  English Language (imp:2.64 lvl:2.43) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Education and Training (imp:2.53 lvl:2.38) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:2.48 lvl:1.88) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Mechanical (imp:2.38 lvl:2.97) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Administration and Management (imp:2.35 lvl:2.43) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Mathematics (imp:2.31 lvl:2.22) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.30 lvl:1.59) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Transportation (imp:2.07 lvl:1.85) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Design (imp:1.66 lvl:1.62) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Law and Government (imp:1.61 lvl:1.03) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Engineering and Technology (imp:1.57 lvl:1.25) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.56 lvl:0.55) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Physics (imp:1.56 lvl:0.93) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Chemistry (imp:1.51 lvl:1.12) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Telecommunications (imp:1.51 lvl:0.43) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.49) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Foreign Language (imp:1.48 lvl:0.69) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Production and Processing (imp:1.47) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Psychology (imp:1.44) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.43) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Communications and Media (imp:1.36 lvl:0.76) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.34) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Administrative (imp:1.29 lvl:0.60) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.28) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.18) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.17) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Computers and Electronics (imp:1.16) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Geography (imp:1.16) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Food Production (imp:1.14) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  History and Archeology (imp:1.09) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Biology (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Fine Arts (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform

--- ABILITIES ---
  Near Vision (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:2.62) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Extent Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.38) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Oral Expression (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Finger Dexterity (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Control Precision (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Speech Recognition (imp:2.88 lvl:2.12) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:2.88 lvl:2.12) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Information Ordering (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Category Flexibility (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Stamina (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Selective Attention (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Written Comprehension (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.50) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Far Vision (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Visualization (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Static Strength (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Time Sharing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Reaction Time (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Peripheral Vision (imp:2.12 lvl:1.12) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Depth Perception (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.12 lvl:1.50) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.12 lvl:1.50) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Written Expression (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Originality (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Memorization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Spatial Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Response Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Rate Control (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:2.00 lvl:1.25) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Speed of Closure (imp:1.88 lvl:1.00) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.75 lvl:1.12) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Night Vision (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Number Facility (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.00) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.68 lvl:3.35) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.58 lvl:3.97) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Getting Information (imp:3.29 lvl:2.53) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.26 lvl:3.05) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:3.15 lvl:2.84) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.07 lvl:2.94) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.04 lvl:2.52) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:2.89 lvl:2.72) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:2.87 lvl:3.60) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:2.84 lvl:1.75) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:2.75 lvl:2.82) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:2.75 lvl:2.30) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.74 lvl:2.65) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.69 lvl:1.98) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:2.66 lvl:2.66) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:2.52 lvl:2.71) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:2.51 lvl:2.29) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.49 lvl:1.62) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Thinking Creatively (imp:2.48 lvl:1.91) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:2.44 lvl:1.84) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.44 lvl:2.01) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.38 lvl:1.86) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:2.37 lvl:2.36) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.34 lvl:2.18) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.27 lvl:2.16) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.18 lvl:2.18) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Processing Information (imp:2.17 lvl:1.68) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.14 lvl:2.11) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.05 lvl:1.88) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.05 lvl:1.81) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.04 lvl:1.85) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:2.00) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:1.92 lvl:1.70) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:1.70 lvl:1.23) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:1.61) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:1.48) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:1.45) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.42 lvl:0.53) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:1.33 lvl:0.49) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.08) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Working with Computers (imp:1.07) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.25) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:1.98) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Cautiousness (imp:0.95) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.84) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Perseverance (imp:0.66) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.49) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Integrity (imp:0.39) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.34) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Cooperation (imp:0.23) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Sincerity (imp:0.03) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Dependability () — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Control (imp:-0.01) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Adaptability (imp:-0.07) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Empathy (imp:-0.16) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Optimism (imp:-0.20) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.21) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Initiative (imp:-0.26) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:-0.45) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Humility (imp:-0.49) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Innovation (imp:-0.50) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.70) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-1.29) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Time Management (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Coordination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.38 lvl:2.38) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Instructing (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.12 lvl:2.25) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Operation and Control (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Persuasion (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Negotiation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.25) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.75 lvl:1.12) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Equipment Selection (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Installation (imp:1.62 lvl:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Repairing (imp:1.50 lvl:0.88) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Technology Design (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.00) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 12,840
  annual_median    : $68,270
  annual_pct10     : $43,670
  annual_pct25     : $52,730
  annual_pct75     : $88,540
  annual_pct90     : $107,110
  annual_mean      : $72,710
  hourly_median    : $32.82

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Illinois ($113,180)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($27,570)
  dispersion_ratio : 4.105x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (28 total) ---
  Construction                             emp:   12,680  median: $  68,270
  Manufacturing                            emp:       70  median: $  47,450

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (2 total) ---
  Construction                             emp:   12,680  median: $  68,270
  Manufacturing                            emp:       70  median: $  47,450

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Taper
match_score        : 0.9091
wikidata_qid       : Q1681992
word_count         : 198
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taper
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T22:40:36.133521Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
Taper may refer to:

Part of an object in the shape of a cone (conical)
Taper (transmission line), a transmission line gradually increasing or decreasing in size
Fishing rod taper, a measure of the flexibility of a fishing rod
Conically tapered joints, made of ground glass, commonly used in chemistry labs to mate two glassware components fitted with glass tubings
Luer taper, a standardized fitting system used for making leak-free connections between slightly conical syringe tips and needles
Tapered thread, a conical screw thread made of a helicoidal ridge wrapped around a cone
Machine taper, in machinery and engineering
Mark Taper Forum, a theatre in the Los Angeles Music Center
A ratio used in aeronautics (see Chord (aeronautics))
Type of wing configuration in aeronautics (Wing_configuration#Chord_variation_along_span)
A thin candle
Philadelphia Tapers (also New York Tapers and Washington Tapers), a defunct professional basketball team
Taper (cymbal), the reduction in thickness of a cymbal from center to rim
Taper pin, used in manufacturing
Taper insertion pin, used in body piercing
Taper (concert), a person who records audio concerts, usually via portable setup
Taper, a type of men's haircut (see crew cut)


== See also ==
Tapering (disambiguation)
Tapper (disambiguation)
Tapir (disambiguation)

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Machine taper (similarity: 0.5263)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Machine_taper
  QID: Q1778349
  Extract: A machine taper is a system for securing cutting tools, workholders or toolholders in the spindle of a machine tool or power tool. A male member of conical form fits into the female socket, which has a matching taper of equal angle.

  Title: Tapering (sports) (similarity: 0.5217)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapering_(sports)
  QID: Q2393575
  Extract: In sports, tapering is the practice of reducing exercise in the days just before an important competition. Tapering is customary both in endurance sports, such as long-distance running and swimming, and strength sports, such as weightlifting and sprinting. For many athletes, a significant period of 

  Title: Philadelphia Tapers (similarity: 0.4800)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Tapers
  QID: Q3901416
  Extract: The Philadelphia Tapers were an American professional basketball team that played a partial 1962–1963 season in the American Basketball League (1961–1962). It traces its history to the 1950s AAU New York Tapers.

  Title: Drywall (similarity: 0.1538)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drywall
  QID: Q372852
  Extract: Drywall is a panel made of calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum), with or without additives, typically extruded between thick sheets of facer and backer paper, used in the construction of interior walls and ceilings. The plaster is mixed with fiber ; plasticizer, foaming agent; and additives that can r

  Title: Fiberglass mesh (similarity: 0.2857)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiberglass_mesh
  QID: Q5446387
  Extract: Fiberglass mesh is a neatly woven, crisscross pattern of fiberglass thread that is used to create new products such as tape and filters. When it is used as a filter, it is somewhat common for the manufacturer to spray a PVC coating to make it stronger and last longer. The most common place to find f

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong O*NET data with detailed task descriptions and clear industry context. BLS wage data is current and specific. The occupation has well-defined boundaries and established career pathways within construction trades.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T23:25:56.007425+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,675
tokens_output        : 4,490
cost_usd             : $0.049374
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : Taper
wikipedia_note       : The Wikipedia match for 'Taper' refers to general conical shapes and technical applications, not the construction occupation. The semantic neighbor 'Drywall' provides more relevant context for the construction finishing trade.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Tapers are skilled construction workers who specialize in finishing drywall installations by sealing joints between plasterboard or other wallboard to prepare surfaces for painting or wallpapering. They apply sealing compounds, embed paper tape, and smooth surfaces to create seamless wall finishes that meet quality standards for interior construction projects. According to BLS OEWS May 2025, the median annual wage is $68,270 with 12,840 workers employed nationally.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Tapers begin by inspecting installed drywall to identify joints that need sealing and selecting appropriate sealing compounds and tape for the specific application. They mix sealing compounds by hand or with portable electric mixers, then press paper tape over joints and apply cementing material using trowels or floating machines to embed the tape and blend joints seamlessly with wall surfaces. The work requires climbing scaffolding or using stilts to reach high ceilings, countersinking nails or screws below wall surfaces, and applying multiple coats of compound to fill holes and achieve smooth finishes. They also apply texturizing compounds or primers using various tools including trowels, brushes, and rollers, while continuously monitoring their work quality and checking adhesive durability to ensure long-lasting results.

WHO THRIVES:
This role attracts individuals with strong realistic and conventional traits who enjoy hands-on work and take pride in creating smooth, professional finishes. Successful tapers possess excellent near vision and arm-hand steadiness for precise application work, combined with the trunk strength and extent flexibility needed for physical demands including reaching overhead and working in various positions. They demonstrate high attention to detail and dependability, as imperfect taping work becomes highly visible once walls are painted or papered. The role suits people who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, can work methodically through repetitive tasks, and have the patience to apply multiple coats and wait for proper drying between applications.

CAREER ENTRY:
Entry into taping typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent (45.7% of workers), though 29.0% enter with less than high school education and 25.3% have post-secondary certificates in construction trades. Most tapers learn through on-the-job training or apprenticeships in drywall finishing, starting as helpers to experienced workers before developing the manual dexterity and technique required for quality finishing work. The Job Zone 2 classification indicates that some preparation is needed, typically involving several months of combined instruction and experience to develop proficiency in mixing compounds, applying tape, and achieving smooth finishes.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Tapers can advance to become drywall crew leaders, specialized finish contractors, or general construction supervisors with experience and additional training. Many transition into related finishing trades such as painting, plastering, or stucco work, leveraging their surface preparation expertise and understanding of building construction. Entrepreneurial tapers often establish their own drywall finishing businesses, particularly in markets with strong residential or commercial construction activity, where their specialized skills in creating high-quality wall finishes are consistently in demand.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The taping profession employs 12,840 workers nationally with a median annual wage of $68,270, ranging from $43,670 at the 10th percentile to $107,110 at the 90th percentile according to BLS OEWS May 2025. Geographic wage variation is substantial, with Illinois offering the highest wages at $113,180 compared to Puerto Rico's $27,570, representing a 4.11x ratio that reflects regional construction market differences. Employment is concentrated in the construction industry (12,680 workers) with minimal manufacturing presence (70 workers), indicating strong dependence on building construction cycles. Demand fluctuates with residential and commercial construction activity, with opportunities typically strongest in growing metropolitan areas experiencing new construction and renovation projects.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Taping work has low automation risk due to the high degree of manual dexterity, visual inspection, and adaptive problem-solving required for quality finishing work. The core activities of applying sealing compounds, embedding tape, and achieving smooth surface transitions require human judgment for pressure application, material selection, and quality assessment that current automation technology cannot effectively replicate. While some mechanical tools assist with compound application and smoothing, the precision required for corners, irregular surfaces, and quality control ensures continued demand for skilled human workers.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [career_pathway] Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers (47-2081.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Tapers directly follow drywall installers in the construction sequence, requiring knowledge of drywall installation methods and often cross-training between roles.
    data: Primary-Short relationship in O*NET
    data: Sequential construction workflow
    data: Shared building and construction knowledge (4.0 importance)
  [skill_overlap] Plasterers and Stucco Masons (47-2161.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require applying and smoothing finishing materials using trowels and similar tools, with shared manual dexterity and surface preparation skills.
    data: Manual Dexterity (3.1 importance)
    data: Arm-Hand Steadiness (3.1 importance)
    data: Similar material application techniques
  [task_similarity] Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers (47-2051.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations focus on surface finishing and smoothing operations using similar tools and techniques for achieving professional-grade finishes.
    data: Performing General Physical Activities (3.6 importance)
    data: Smoothing and finishing material application
    data: Use of trowels and finishing tools
  [job_zone] Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall (47-2131.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations are Job Zone 2 requiring similar levels of preparation and working in overlapping construction environments with wall and ceiling systems.
    data: Job Zone 2 classification
    data: Construction trade environment
    data: Wall and ceiling work focus
  [career_pathway] Construction Laborers (47-2061.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Construction laborers often serve as entry point for specialized trades like taping, with shared physical work requirements and construction site experience.
    data: Primary-Long relationship
    data: Performing General Physical Activities (3.6 importance)
    data: Construction industry employment base

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['drywall taper', 'wall taper', 'sheet rock taper', 'drywall finisher', 'taper', 'spackler', 'drywall mechanic', 'finisher']
  exclude_keywords : ['machine taper', 'fishing taper', 'sports taper', 'tapering specialist', 'philadelphia tapers']
  title_patterns   : ['*taper*', '*drywall*finisher*', '*wall*taper*', '*sheet*rock*taper*', 'spackler']
  common_variations: ['drywall taper', 'wall taper', 'sheet rock taper', 'drywall finisher', 'taper', 'spackler', 'drywall mechanic', 'finisher']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['tendency', 'others', 'equipment', 'construction', 'materials', 'principles', 'surfaces', 'quality', 'taper', 'tape', 'control', 'compounds', 'includes', 'objects', 'sealing', 'tools', 'activities', 'body', 'ideas', 'tapers']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tendency                   42  0.01456  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     38  0.01317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
equipment                  24  0.00832  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:96%  dwas:4%
construction               21  0.00728  inference            inference:62%  dwas:24%  onet_dimensions:10%
materials                  18  0.00624  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:56%  dwas:44%
principles                 16  0.00555  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
surfaces                   15  0.00520  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:33%  dwas:33%  inference:33%
quality                    14  0.00485  inference            inference:50%  onet_dimensions:43%  dwas:7%
taper                      14  0.00485  wikipedia            wikipedia:93%  inference:7%
tape                       13  0.00451  inference            inference:46%  onet_tasks:38%  wikipedia:15%
control                    13  0.00451  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  inference:8%
compounds                  12  0.00416  inference            inference:50%  onet_tasks:42%  dwas:8%
includes                   12  0.00416  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
objects                    12  0.00416  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
sealing                    11  0.00381  inference            inference:55%  onet_tasks:45%
tools                      11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:45%  dwas:18%  inference:18%
activities                 11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:82%  dwas:9%  inference:9%
body                       11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:91%  wikipedia:9%
ideas                      11  0.00381  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
tapers                     11  0.00381  inference            inference:55%  wikipedia:45%
hand                       10  0.00347  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  inference:20%  onet_tasks:10%
techniques                 10  0.00347  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needed                     10  0.00347  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  inference:20%  dwas:10%
joints                      9  0.00312  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:44%  inference:44%  wikipedia:11%
smooth                      9  0.00312  inference            inference:56%  onet_tasks:22%  dwas:22%
machines                    9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  onet_tasks:11%  inference:11%
finishing                   9  0.00312  inference            inference:78%  onet_tasks:11%  dwas:11%
monitoring                  9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
problems                    9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
standards                   9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
human                       9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
resources                   9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
quickly                     9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
orientation                 9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
developing                  9  0.00312  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
material                    8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:38%  dwas:25%  inference:25%
performance                 8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  wikipedia:12%
problem                     8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
procedures                  8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needs                       8  0.00277  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%