Structural Metal Worker

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Work Tasks

• Make and put up steel framework used to make highways, bridges, and buildings
• Put in steel stairwells, catwalks, window frames, railings, and metal water tanks
• Repair and maintain older buildings and structures
• Put together metal building parts which are already made
• Work outdoors for structural steel contractors, and contractors who build homes, factories, churches, commercial buildings, schools, bridges, tunnels, water, sewer, and power lines; and the government
• Work with blueprints, steel beams, metal parts, plumb bobs, transits, levels, measuring tapes, laser equipment, cranes, derricks, winches, hoists, jacks, tag lines, cables, hand tools, welding and riveting equipment

Salary, Size & Growth

• $44,500 average per year ($21.50 per hour)
• A large occupation (157,600 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.6% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: A high school diploma, 18 years of age or older, and an apprenticeship in structural metalworking
• Skills/Courses: Courses in applied math, mechanical drawing, English, and welding; training in blueprint reading; structural erecting, rigging, reinforcing, welding, assembling, and safety
• Certification/Licensing: May be certified as a welder.