Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Roofer Helper
What roofer helpers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a roofer helper?
Set up fall protection. From there, the day usually includes tear off old roofing, carry materials, and load debris. Full time, seasonal, early starts in summer.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a roofer helper working full time.
- Set up fall protection.
- Tear off shingles.
- Load the dumpster.
- Carry bundles up.
- Roll out underlayment.
- Magnet sweep for nails.
- Clean up.
Where roofer helpers work
Helpers work on roofs outdoors.
Hours and schedule
Full time, seasonal, early starts in summer.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Tear off old roofing
- Carry materials
- Load debris
- Clean up nails
- Install underlayment
- Assist roofers
- Set up safety gear
Tools you’ll use every day
- Roofing shovels
- Pry bars
- Ladders
- Harnesses
- Magnetic sweepers
- Nail guns
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Easy entry
- Short training
- Path to roofer
- Outdoor work
What’s hard
- Heat
- Falls risk
- Very physical
- Seasonal
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I don’t mind heights
- I’m strong
- I like outdoor work
- I want short training
- I want to become a roofer
- I like teamwork
Not sure? Take the free Roofer Helper fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Always use fall protection
- Hydrate in heat
- Use ladders safely
- Wear non-slip shoes