Sheet Metal Worker

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Work Tasks

• Make and install building parts made from metal sheets, such as heating duct systems, roofs, gutters, skylights, and signs
• Study plans and blueprints to figure out what materials to use
• Make the products at a shop away from the construction site
• Measure, cut, bend, shape, and fasten the pieces of sheet metal to make the product; install the pieces at the construction site
• Work for plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, roofing, sheet-metal, special trade, and general contractors; and the government
• Work with various sheet metals, sketches, blueprints, calculators, measuring tools, shears, saws, presses, soldering and welding equipment, bolts, rivets, nails, screws, cement, glue, and computerized metalworking equipment

Salary, Size & Growth

• $44,000 average per year ($21.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (140,400 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.6% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: A 2-year degree in sheet metal technology or an apprenticeship in sheet metal working
• Skills/Courses: Courses in English, algebra, geometry, physics, mechanical drawing, blueprint reading, and shop; training in drafting, specification reading, trigonometry, geometry, using computerized equipment, welding, and heating, air-conditioning, and ventilating systems
• Certification/Licensing: A variety of certifications are offered.