Roofer Career Guide in Iowa
Explore roofer salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Iowa.
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How to Become a Roofer in Iowa
Iowa roofers train through employers, registered apprenticeships, community colleges, and construction associations. Programs typically cover steep-slope and low-slope systems, weatherproofing, fall protection, and cold-weather work practices.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Roofer Salary in Iowa
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Iowa median wage for roofer workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $55,440, the median wage in Iowa is approximately $6,780 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Roofers in Iowa
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONRoofer Training Requirements in Iowa
Iowa roofers generally learn through employer training, construction education, or registered apprenticeship. A roofing business meeting Iowa’s statutory earnings threshold must register as a construction contractor.
- Complete supervised training in shingles, metal roofing, membranes, flashing, and moisture protection.
- Complete OSHA fall-protection, ladder, scaffold, cold-weather, and personal protective equipment training.
- Register with the Iowa Division of Labor when the construction-contractor threshold is met.
- Provide an out-of-state contractor bond when applicable.
- Check city and county licensing, permit, insurance, and inspection requirements.
Roofer Training Providers in Iowa
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines Area Community College | Ankeny | View Program |
| Kirkwood Community College | Cedar Rapids | View Program |
| Hawkeye Community College | Waterloo | View Program |
| Western Iowa Tech Community College | Sioux City | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESRoofer Apprenticeship Programs in Iowa
Roofer Licensing Requirements in Iowa
Iowa does not issue a trade license specifically for roofers, but construction contractors earning at least the statutory annual threshold must register with the Iowa Division of Labor. Out-of-state contractors may also have bonding obligations. Local permits and licensing can apply.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSRoofer Job Outlook in Iowa
Iowa projects roofing employment to increase from approximately 1,510 jobs in 2024 to 1,630 in 2034, representing 8% growth and about 120 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the roofer salary in Iowa?
The statewide median wage for roofers in Iowa is approximately $48,660 per year, or $23.39 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Iowa require roofer licensing?
Yes. Iowa requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt roofer work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with Iowa Division of Labor.
How long does it take to become a roofer in Iowa?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately Up to 1 Year On-the-Job Training, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are roofers in demand in Iowa?
Iowa projects roofer employment to grow by approximately 8% from 2024 to 2034, with about 120 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Iowa Wages for Roofer (SOC 47-2181) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Iowa Roofer Wages
- Iowa Roofer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Iowa Roofer Employment Trends
- Iowa Division of Labor — Licensing authority. Iowa Division of Labor