Take the First Step Toward Your Welding Career Now!
Sheet metal is used for a variety of things in our daily lives, from the structures we live and work in, to the equipment used to control the temperature inside of it, and beyond. So many industries hire highly trained sheet metal workers, making this a very diversified skilled trade to be a part of. If you’re thinking about heading into this skilled trade, then read on to find out more!
As a sheet metal worker, you’ll find jobs with construction sites, manufacturing plants, and at metal shops. If you are a beginner and do not have the necessary skills, then you’ll be able to find work in a factory where you’ll start from the basics and learn your way up the ladder. What you do will depend on where you’re employed. Typically, sheet metal workers’ daily tasks are:
You’ll work the typical 40 hour week, or longer. There will be a lot of lifting, bending, and maneuvering of your body. You’ll be in somewhat dangerous situations, so it’s a good idea to know the best practices when it comes to workplace safety.
While there is not a high level of education required to sheet metal working, there are many who have a certificate or diploma, minimally. To become a sheet metal worker, you need to follow a certain path:
As mentioned earlier, this is a rather diverse trade. Many different industries hire sheet metal workers, particularly those who specialize in that industry.
As an apprentice sheet metal worker, you can expect to earn about half of what your boss is earning. They make right around $49,000 annually, but apprentices will make less than $27,000 to start. The more you level up with your skill, so will your coin. That goes for both an apprentice and a full-fledged sheet metal worker. The top ten percent of skilled workers in this trade are earning a median salary of close to $90,000 per year. The highest paying industries for sheet metal workers are the government and specialty trade contractors.
Employment outlook remains strong through 2026, with 12,000 new jobs opening during that time. Growth is due to older workers aging out and retiring, making way for the younger set to replace them.