Roofer Career Guide in New York
Explore roofer salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in New York.
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How to Become a Roofer in New York
New York has multiple registered union roofer apprenticeships combining paid employment, classroom instruction, safety training, and experience with commercial roofing and waterproofing systems.
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 New York
The salary figure shown on this page represents the New York 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 New York is approximately $10,580 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Roofers in New York
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 New York
New York roofers generally enter through paid employment or registered apprenticeship. Statewide individual licensure is not required, but local contractor licensing can apply.
- Complete fall-protection, scaffold, ladder, fire-prevention, and hazardous-material training.
- Learn low-slope and steep-slope roofing, insulation, flashing, sheet metal, waterproofing, and repair.
- Complete supervised on-the-job hours and related instruction through an approved apprenticeship where available.
- Check city and county home-improvement licensing, permit, insurance, and registration requirements.
Roofer Training Providers in New York
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| SUNY Delhi — Construction Technology | Delhi | View Program |
| Alfred State College — Building Trades | Wellsville | View Program |
| Hudson Valley Community College — Building Construction | Troy | View Program |
| Erie Community College — Building Trades | Williamsville | 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 New York
Roofer Licensing Requirements in New York
New York State does not issue a statewide roofing or home-improvement contractor license. New York City and several counties and municipalities require home-improvement contractor licensing or registration.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSRoofer Job Outlook in New York
Employment of roofers in New York is projected to grow 1% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 420 job openings per year.
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 New York?
The statewide median wage for roofers in New York is approximately $66,020 per year, or $31.74 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does New York require roofer licensing?
New York does not use one uniform statewide licensing rule for all roofer work. Local requirements may apply, and applicants should verify the rules in the city or county where they plan to work.
How long does it take to become a roofer in New York?
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 New York?
New York projects roofer employment to grow by approximately 1% from 2024 to 2034, with about 420 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
- New York Wages for Roofer (SOC 47-2181) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New York Roofer Wages
- New York Roofer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New York Roofer Employment Trends
- Applicable City or County Consumer Affairs or Licensing Agency — Licensing authority. Applicable City or County Consumer Affairs or Licensing Agency