Sheet Metal Worker

Your Fit

Income

$59K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-0.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Sheet Metal Worker?

Sheet Metal Workers are skilled tradespeople who fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products. They work with a variety of metals to create components for buildings, HVAC systems, and a range of industrial applications.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Sheet Metal Worker.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Sheet Metal Worker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$37K per year	$46K per year	$59K per year	$79K per year	$101K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $11K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Sheet Metal Worker do?

Work environment

Sheet Metal Workers typically work in manufacturing plants, construction sites, or workshops. Their work may involve both indoor and outdoor settings and can be physically demanding, often requiring the use of protective gear. They may work in varied conditions, from high above the ground to tight, enclosed spaces.

Quick task list

Measures, cuts, bends, and shapes metal sheets.
Installs and repairs sheet metal products such as roofs, ducts, and siding.
Reads and interprets blueprints and design specifications.
Ensures compliance with building codes and safety standards.
Welds and joins metal parts together.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

HVAC Fabrication: Creating and installing ductwork for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
Architectural Sheet Metal Work: Focusing on metal roofing, siding, and decorative elements for buildings.
Industrial Sheet Metal Work: Producing components for industrial machinery and equipment.
Custom Fabrication: Specializing in bespoke or specialty metal products for various applications.
Welding: Mastering the skill of joining metal pieces using various welding techniques.

Description

Sheet Metal Workers combine technical skill with physical labor to create and maintain a wide array of metal products. Their work is crucial in several industries, including construction, manufacturing, and HVAC systems. Precision and attention to detail are important, as the job involves creating pieces that must fit specific dimensions and designs.

The occupation demands a strong understanding of technical drawings and math, as well as proficiency in using tools and machinery. Safety is a top priority, as workers are often exposed to sharp materials, heavy equipment, and, in some cases, heights. Adaptability is also key, as sheet metal workers may need to work in various environments and conditions.

Sheet Metal Workers typically enjoy a variety of projects and tasks, making the job diverse and interesting. It's a career that offers the satisfaction of creating tangible products and seeing the direct results of one's work. Opportunities for specialization also provide pathways for career development and increased earning potential.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Crafting and installing tangible products with precision.
Variety in daily tasks and work environments.
Opportunities for creative problem-solving and design.

You might make a good Sheet Metal Worker if you are...

Skilled in using tools and machinery with precision.
Good at interpreting technical drawings and measurements.
Physically fit and comfortable working in different environments.
Detail-oriented, with a focus on quality and accuracy.
Interested in metalwork and fabrication.

Pros:

Diverse work environments and tasks.
Opportunities for creative and technical skill development.
High demand in various industries, offering job stability.

Cons:

Physically demanding work with potential safety hazards.
May involve working in uncomfortable or extreme conditions.
Some work can be repetitive and require working long hours.

How to become a Sheet Metal Worker

Typical education

Becoming a Sheet Metal Worker generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by an apprenticeship program, which typically lasts 4-5 years. Some may also attend technical schools to learn basic skills before starting an apprenticeship.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop or vocational training classes, particularly in metalworking or welding.
Mathematics for accurate measurements and geometry.
Physics to understand principles of metal properties and thermal dynamics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in construction or engineering clubs.
Joining a robotics team to gain experience in fabrication.
Volunteering in community projects that involve metalwork or construction.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in a technical school to learn basic sheet metal work skills.
Join an apprenticeship program through a local union or trade organization.
Gain certifications in welding or other specialized skills relevant to sheet metal work.

More resources

Sheet Metal Workers' National Association (SMWNA) - Offers information on apprenticeship and training.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Detailed job descriptions and educational pathways.
American Welding Society (AWS) - Provides resources and certification information for welding.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) - Offers training programs in various construction trades, including sheet metal work.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.