Steel Worker

Your Fit

Income

$63K

Preparation

Some

Growth

1.8%

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

What is a Steel Worker?

A Steel Worker, also known as a Structural Iron and Steel Worker, is involved in the construction and maintenance of steel frameworks for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They are responsible for cutting, positioning, and securing steel bars or beams to form structural frameworks.

Sample job titles:

Fitter, Iron Worker, Ironworker, Steel Worker

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Steel 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 Steel Worker earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$42K per year	$49K per year	$63K per year	$83K per year	$108K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $13K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Steel Worker do?

Work environment

Steel Workers typically work outdoors on construction sites, often at great heights when working on skyscrapers or bridges. The work is physically demanding and involves lifting heavy materials, climbing, bending, and working in various weather conditions. Safety is a critical aspect of the job, due to the risks associated with working at heights and handling heavy materials.

Quick task list

Reads and interprets blueprints and project plans.
Cuts, bends, and welds steel pieces.
Erects and installs steel frameworks for structures.
Operates heavy machinery to move structural steel.
Ensures adherence to safety protocols and regulations.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Structural Steel Erection: Specializing in the assembly and erection of steel frameworks.
Steel Fabrication: Working in facilities to cut, bend, and assemble steel components before they are sent to construction sites.
Reinforcing Steel Work: Focusing on the installation of rebar and other materials used to reinforce concrete structures.
Welding: Specializing in joining steel components using various welding techniques.
Rigging: Expertise in the use of cables, ropes, and chains to lift and move heavy steel components.

Description

Steel Workers are vital to the construction industry, providing the backbone for many types of structures. This occupation requires a combination of physical strength, technical skills, and attention to detail. Steel Workers must be able to read and understand complex blueprints and execute the plans accurately, ensuring the structural integrity and safety of buildings and bridges.

Teamwork is essential in this field, as Steel Workers often work in crews. Good communication skills are important for coordinating tasks and ensuring safety on the job site. Steel Workers also need to be adaptable, as they may work in a variety of settings and conditions, from urban construction sites to remote outdoor locations.

Continuous learning is a part of being a Steel Worker, as technology and methods in construction evolve. This includes staying updated on new safety standards, welding techniques, and construction methods. The ability to work with new materials and in changing environments is crucial for career longevity and success in this field.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being part of constructing significant and visible structures like buildings and bridges.
The physical and technical challenge of working with steel.
The sense of accomplishment from creating tangible, lasting structures.

You might make a good Steel Worker if you are...

Physically strong and comfortable with manual labor.
Not afraid of heights and enjoy working outdoors.
Detail-oriented, able to follow complex instructions and blueprints accurately.
A good team player, able to communicate effectively with others.
Safety-conscious, always aware of and adhering to safety regulations.

Pros:

Opportunity to work on a variety of large and important construction projects.
Good pay and benefits, especially after completing an apprenticeship.
Sense of pride in contributing to the construction of enduring structures.

Cons:

Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work.
Exposure to outdoor conditions and working at heights.
Risk of injuries due to the nature of the job.

How to become a Steel Worker

Typical education

Becoming a Steel Worker generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by an apprenticeship program. The apprenticeship, which includes both on-the-job training and classroom instruction, typically lasts 3-4 years.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in welding and metalwork.
Mathematics, particularly geometry and algebra, for understanding blueprints and measurements.
Physical Education to build strength and stamina.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in team sports to develop teamwork skills and physical fitness.
Joining a robotics club or similar activities to gain experience in working with metal and machinery.
Volunteering for community construction projects to gain practical experience.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in a technical school or community college that offers courses in welding, metal fabrication, or construction technology.
Seek apprenticeships with construction companies or steelworker unions.
Obtain certifications in welding, rigging, or other relevant skills.

More resources

American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) - Provides resources and information for steel construction professionals.
Ironworkers Union - Offers apprenticeship and training opportunities.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Offers detailed job descriptions and educational paths for steel workers.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) - Provides certification and training resources for the construction industry.

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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.