The process to become a carpet layer usually involves on-the-job training with mentoring from experienced carpet installers. There are no special educational requirements for this work beyond a high school diploma, and it can help to have a valid driver's license, because it might be necessary to transport materials and supplies to job sites. Employment prospects in this area can vary by region and flooring trends; when carpet is popular and there is a construction boom, there might be numerous job opportunities.
Firms that do flooring and carpet installation routinely advertise their open positions in the newspaper and on job boards. If someone wants to work with a specific company, it might be advisable to ask the company if it would be willing to keep a résumé on file. If the company needs new personnel and is willing to take on a trainee to become a carpet layer, it can use the information on stored résumés to contact people who have expressed interest in potential job openings.
To become a carpet layer, a trainee will work on installation crews to learn about the various installation techniques and issues that might arise while laying carpet. At first, trainees might work mainly on support tasks such as collecting tools and helping the crew stay organized. As they watch the crew, they can pick up skills and will start to practice laying carpet under supervision until the foreman is satisfied with their ability.
After someone has become a carpet layer, it might be possible to work into a supervisory position. Supervisors need carpet-laying skills and must also be good communicators. In addition to managing the crew, they also interact with customers. These customers might include contractors, interior designers and homeowners who contract directly with a carpet installation firm. Supervisors tend to receive better pay and are more likely to be eligible for benefits in addition to having greater job security.
It is important to be aware of some safety issues specific to this profession. Someone who has become a carpet layer is at increased risk of knee injuries as a result of the frequent kneeling and knee strain associated with carpet laying. Carpet layers need to wear appropriate knee protection in addition to learning to use tools correctly. It might help to attend a safety course, especially for a person who works as a supervisor, because supervisors are responsible for the health and safety of their crews.