Tiler Wall and Floor Tiler
Occupation code: 333111（ANZSCO） Skilled migration occupation Overall 7.3/10
Wall and Floor Tilers are responsible for laying various types of tiles on floors, walls, pool surrounds and other surfaces in residential and commercial buildings. Australia's strong renovation market and ongoing new residential construction drive consistent demand, and skilled tiling contractors can earn strong incomes — making it one of the trades with higher employment rates among lifestyle trades.
Ratings · Overall 7.3/10i
In the AI era: what happens to Tiler
Tile Layers Face Moderate Impact from AI Automation: Repetitive Measuring and Cutting Are at Risk of Replacement, but On-Site Laying, Leveling, and Custom Cuts Still Rely on Manual Skill and Judgment; AI Primarily Acts as an Efficiency Tool Rather Than a Replacement.
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Replaces some tasks of tilers in measurement, layout, and cutting planning, especially tile layout optimization and waste calculation in large projects.
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Partially replaces tile setters' administrative tasks in project communication, scheduling, and quality records, reducing manual document handling.
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Replaces tile setters' work in marking lines on floors and walls, reducing manual measurement errors and improving line efficiency.
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Partially replaces tiler tasks in material recommendation and design during pre-renovation consultation, reducing manual communication and calculation.
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Partially replaces tilers' project management, material list generation, and schedule optimization in small commercial renovations.
- Using laser rangefinders and calculators for site measurement and tile layout calculation
- Automatically generating cutting plans and material lists via software
- Large-area tiling of standard right-angle walls (simple patterns)
- Use automatic cutting machines for straight cuts
- Standard quotes and timeline estimates in client communication
- AI-assisted design software generates complex laying patterns and 3D previews
- Augmented reality (AR) projection for assisting brick alignment and leveling
- Automated cutting machines precisely cut irregular tiles based on digital drawings
- AI defect detection system identifies hollowing and flatness issues in real time
- Optimize project scheduling and material allocation with smart project management tools
- On-site measurement and manual cutting of non-standard spaces (rounded corners, sloped surfaces, irregular shapes)
- Quality assessment and repair of basic treatments (waterproofing, leveling)
- On-site communication with property owners and designers to determine aesthetic solutions (aesthetic decisions)
- Fine laying techniques for various tile materials (natural stone, mosaic)
- Responsibility for safety regulations and construction quality (compliance, warranty)
- Use BIM/3D layout software (e.g., SketchUp, AutoCAD Tile plugin)
- Operating CNC waterjet/plasma cutting machines
- Master augmented reality (AR) assisted layout tools
- Learn basic operation and data interpretation of AI defect detection systems
- Enhancing Project Valuation and Quotation Skills (Combined with AI Quotation Tools)
- Learning sustainable materials and green construction standards
Entry-level positions (apprentices/laborers) have not narrowed significantly, as on-site operation requirements remain high. However, basic tasks like measurement, layout, and material estimation can be AI-assisted; novices may become proficient faster with AI tools, but core craftsmanship still requires long-term practice.
Shift from pure manual work to 'digital craftsmanship': short-term mastery of AI layout and CNC cutting, mid-term use of AR technology to improve setting-out efficiency, and long-term transition to tile system designer (BIM detailing), quality supervisor, or smart renovation project manager. Maintain a relentless pursuit of craftsmanship, letting AI serve rather than replace.
Salary
| Experience | Annual (AUD) | |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice (0–4 years) | $28,000 ~ $55,000 | Fair Work Award |
| Junior tiler (1–3 years) | $58,000 ~ $75,000 | Residential bathrooms and kitchens |
| Intermediate-level tiler (3–8 years) | $75,000 ~ $95,000 | Seek average approximately $38/hr; WorldSalaries average $73k (2025) |
| Senior / Contractor (8+ years) | $95,000 ~ $130,000 | Independent contractors paid per piece; higher rates for premium custom projects |
Education Path
| Stage | Duration | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31120) (apprenticeship) | 42–48 months | $0~$2,000 |
| Overseas qualification recognition (TRA) | 12–18 months | $2,000~$5,000 |
| WHS White Card | 1 day | $50~$150 |
Qualifications
| Qualification | Issuer | |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31120) | TAFE / RTO | Required |
| White Card | SafeWork (each state/territory) | Required |
| TRA Skills Assessment | TRA | Optional |
Migration
Occupation classification code: 333111（ANZSCO）
| Visa | Details |
|---|---|
| 482 Skills in Demand | Employer sponsorship, up to 4 years |
| 186 ENS | Permanent Residency |
| 190 Skilled Nominated | State nomination adds 5 points · ~75 pts competitive cut-off (2025–26, indicative) |
| 491 Skilled Work Regional | 15-point regional bonus · ~70 pts competitive cut-off (2025–26, indicative) |
Who it fits
- Background in tiling and construction fit-out, targeting skilled migration
- Values craft precision and has the patience for complex pattern matching and custom designs
- Interested in going independent as a contractor, with greater income flexibility
- Those with chronic knee or lower back injuries (frequent kneeling required)
- Seeking a fast, low-barrier entry into the industry
- Does not accept dusty work environments
Career outlook
Large-format tiles (600×600mm+) and custom mosaics are trending, raising skill requirements. The independent contractor market is active, with earnings well above employed positions.
The residential renovation market (particularly bathroom/kitchen renovations) is the largest demand driver. Every new apartment and home requires tiling work. JSA confirms ongoing trade shortages (2025).
Growth areas：
Residential Bathroom & Kitchen RenovationNew Apartment & House ConstructionCommercial FitoutPool & Outdoor Living Areas
FAQ
Data sources
Salary ranges are estimates aggregated from public listings on Seek, Indeed, Glassdoor and ERI SalaryExpert; employment and demand forecasts cite Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS); visa and migration details follow the latest occupation lists from the Department of Home Affairs and the relevant assessing authorities. Figures are indicative only — always refer to the latest official sources.