Virginia Association of Roofing Contractors
Roofing Apprenticeship Program
(RAP)
Like working outside?
Want a job that offers variety and changes of scenery?
Like working with your hands?
Not afraid of heights?
Interested in an opportunity to learn a skilled trade while earning a pay check?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should consider a career in the roofing industry.
The Virginia Association of Roofing Contractors’ Roofing Apprenticeship Program provides a great opportunity to learn a skilled trade while earning excellent pay and benefits. Apprentices are hired by participating roofing contractors (see list of apprenticeship sponsors on left) as full-time employees and attend classes once a week in the evening for four (4) semesters. Each apprentice who successfully completes the two-year Roofing Apprenticeship Program will receive a journeyman’s certificate recognized throughout the United States. Most employers pay for your tuition or reimburse you for tuition costs.
There are several benefits to working in the roofing industry that shouldn’t be overlooked. Roofers spend most of their time working outdoors, not behind a desk; the work varies; and, every project is different. In fact, many roofing companies perform work all over the Commonwealth, offering frequent scenery changes and travel opportunities.
Financially, roofing offers wages and benefits that compare favorably with related construction trades, factory and other jobs—including opportunities to earn as much as or more than people with college degrees:
- The most recent data available from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) Salary and Benefits Survey 2000 shows that the average annual salary including bonuses for roofing helpers is $24,810; for a journeyman is $36,836; for a foremen is $44,067; and for a field superintendent is $54,855. The average annual salary including bonuses for an estimator is $57,192 and for a salesman is $61,102.
Top earnings in roofing can reach as high as $80,000 annually or more. In addition to good wages, most roofing contractors offer additional benefits, such as vacation plans, paid holidays, life insurance, 401(k) plans, profit sharing, and other employee assistance programs.
If you would like to apply to participate in RAP, click here.
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