At a glance
Tilesetters are precision finish tradespeople. Employers usually prioritize clean layout, reliable waterproofing, safe cutting practices, and consistent output under schedule pressure.
| What changes the hourly rate | Typical impact |
|---|---|
| Province + city | Local demand, cost of living, and prevailing wages differ by region. |
| Union / non-union | Union frameworks may define wage grids; non-union may vary by employer and scope. |
| Experience (layout accuracy, speed, problem-solving) | Journeyperson-level output typically pays closer to the top of the range. |
| Overtime and schedule constraints | Overtime premiums may apply based on provincial rules and employer policy. |
Ranges are indicative and shown as gross (brutto). Actual pay depends on location, employer policy, scope of work, and productivity.
Hiring story: why this trade stays in demand
Tile work is one of the last steps before handover, which means it is highly visible and directly affects customer acceptance. Canadian employers often look for tilesetters who can hold lines, levels, and pattern while coordinating with other finishing trades and adapting to real-site conditions.
The strongest candidates usually bring a practical mix: solid substrate prep, clean cuts, disciplined waterproofing, and the ability to keep a tidy, safe work zone (especially when cutting generates dust and noise).
Typical scope on residential / renovation
- Bathrooms, kitchens, backsplashes, laundry rooms
- Shower assemblies (membranes, corners, drains)
- Repairs, re-grout, tile replacement, trim finishing
Typical scope on commercial
- Lobby and corridor floors, washrooms, utility rooms
- Large-format tile alignment and movement joints
- Higher volume work with tight coordination and QA checks
Day-to-day tasks
- Read drawings or site instructions; confirm layout lines, levels, and elevations
- Prepare substrates: cleaning, patching, leveling/flattening, installing backer board
- Install waterproofing systems where required (showers, wet areas, balconies)
- Measure, mark, cut, and dry-fit tile; maintain consistent spacing and alignment
- Mix thinset/mortar to spec; apply with correct trowel notch and coverage
- Set tile, adjust for lippage, and maintain pattern continuity (incl. mosaics)
- Grout, caulk, and finish edges/transitions; install trims and profiles
- Maintain a clean work zone and follow safe cutting/dust control practices
Skills & requirements
Must-haves
- Hands-on experience with wall/floor tile installation (ceramic/porcelain/stone)
- Layout accuracy: square, level, plumb; ability to plan cuts and avoid small slivers
- Confident tool handling (wet saw/snap cutter, grinders when permitted, mixing tools)
- Basic communication in English for site instructions and safety
- Safety mindset: PPE use, housekeeping, and hazard awareness
Nice-to-haves
- Waterproofing system experience (membranes, drains, niches, curbs)
- Large-format tile and leveling system experience
- Commercial floor pacing, movement joints, expansion details
- Trade certification / Red Seal (when required by employer or province)
- Own basic hand tools (employer policy varies)
Exact requirements vary by employer, province, and project type. Where certification is required, the employer will confirm it during screening.
Work conditions in Canada
- Schedule: commonly weekday shifts; some projects add evenings/weekends depending on deadlines
- Overtime: may be available during peak phases; premiums depend on province and policy
- Physical demands: kneeling, lifting tile boxes, repetitive motion, working with adhesives/grout
- Safety: PPE is standard; cutting and mixing may require extra dust control and eye/ear protection
- Travel: some roles are local; others may involve commuting between sites
- Accommodation: sometimes provided/assisted for remote projects (depends on employer)
- Deductions: statutory deductions apply; additional items (tools, PPE, accommodation) depend on employer policy and agreements
Documents & compliance (Canada)
Work authorization basics
- Work permit type: roles may be filled under employer-specific permits or open work authorization, depending on the candidate’s status
- Identity documents: valid passport and any required immigration documents
- Onboarding basics: Social Insurance Number (SIN) and standard employment paperwork once eligible
- Checks: some sites require background checks or site access clearances (project dependent)
Trade certification & Red Seal notes
- Trade certification for tilesetters is compulsory in Quebec and available/voluntary in several other provinces.
- Red Seal endorsement may apply for qualified tradespeople and can support mobility between provinces.
- Ontario may refer to the trade as Terrazzo, Tile and Marble Setter in some apprenticeship contexts.
This page provides general information only. Always follow the employer’s legal and site requirements for the specific project.
Candidate fit
You are a good fit if you…
- can keep lines straight and cuts clean, even with tricky corners and obstacles
- understand substrate prep and don’t “skip steps” to save time
- can install waterproofing properly and document your approach when needed
- work neatly and safely (PPE, housekeeping, controlled cutting)
- can maintain consistent spacing, alignment, and minimal lippage
- can estimate materials and plan layouts to reduce waste
- communicate reliably with supervisors and other trades
This role is not for you if you…
- dislike repetitive precision work or get frustrated by detail-heavy tasks
- often rush prep, skip waterproofing steps, or ignore cure times
- cannot work on your knees or handle lifting and site movement
- avoid safety rules or don’t use PPE consistently
- cannot follow layout instructions or adapt when site conditions change
Related roles in Construction & Trades
Internal links to similar vacancies
FAQ
Is a CV required to apply?
Yes. Candidates without a CV are not considered. Use mavial.pl/en/cv.html.
Are wages shown net or gross?
All wages on this page are shown as gross (brutto). Net pay depends on statutory deductions and individual circumstances.
Do I need trade certification or Red Seal?
It depends on the province and the employer/site. Some provinces have compulsory certification (e.g., Quebec), while others treat it as voluntary/available. Employers will confirm what is required for the project.
What experience matters most for higher pay?
Layout accuracy, speed without rework, waterproofing competence, large-format experience, and clean finishing typically increase your market rate.
What documents are typically needed for legal work in Canada?
Work authorization appropriate to your status, valid identity documents, and standard onboarding items (e.g., SIN once eligible). Some projects also require background checks or site access clearances.