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Metal Workers are part of the industrial sector specializing in the handling of metal in order to create a variety of structures.
Metal Workers can also be referred to as Ironworkers.
These professionals work on a variety of projects that require the installation of metal.
Metal Workers can lend their expertise in a variety of professions working in construction, manufacturing or in structural and reinforcing metal specialties.
People who want to become a Metal Worker probably know that this profession requires a lot of physical work and the ability to work well with your hands.
If you feel you would enjoy this type of work, there are many objects you can help build or repair.
Depending on the area you work, you would be responsible for helping create many types of structures, buildings and appliances that require the installation of metal.
People who want to become a Metal Worker may also want to know about an important aspect in this profession.
Metal Workers must adhere to safety protocols and must use precautions in order to reduce non fatal accidents.
This type of profession has one of the highest non fatal injury rates and workers have to follow safety protocol in order to keep themselves and others safe.
Metal Workers can also specialize in several sectors and can include the following professions:
- Construction Metal Workers
- Structural and Reinforcement Metal Workers
- Sheet Metal Workers
- Jewelry and Precious Metal Workers
Table of Contents
Education Requirements to Become a Metal Worker
People who want to become a Metal Worker can find a many ways to join this profession.
The minimum requirement in order to be considered for this type of work is a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Some employers will hire candidates who are at least 18 years of age and will provide resources to train them on the job.
These candidates can get a job out of high school and then learn how to install and repair metal work by gaining experience and learning from a more skilled professional.
However, many employers are more likely to consider a candidate who has completed an apprenticeship program.
Some apprenticeship programs take about three to four years to complete and some pay apprentices as they complete the program.
Metal Worker Job Description
Metal Workers can build, install and repair many types of structures and appliances.
Below are some common types of projects that Metal Workers can help make and install which can depend on the specialty a candidate wishes to work in.
Metal Workers can help make, install or repair:
- Jewelry
- Roofing
- Outdoor signs
- Gutters
- Air conditioning ducts
- Heaters
- Ventilation
- Railroad cars
- Skylines
- Restaurant equipment
- Steel Girders or Columns for buildings, bridges, tunnels or other large structures
Metal Workers in construction would help with the manipulation and installation of metal in order to create, install and provide maintenance to ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems.
They would also provide their skills to install and provide maintenance to rain gutters, siding, skylights, restaurant equipment, roofing and other products made from steel metal.
Iron or Metal Workers in the Structural or Reinforcing sector perform heavy work in order to help create large structures such as buildings, bridges or tunnels.
Metal Workers who work with jewelry will design, create and repair several types of trinkets.
They will use materials such as gold, silver or other precious metals.
They will also set stones and cast metal molds in order to make fine jewelry.
Sheet Metal Workers can be a part of construction or manufacturing industries and handle ventilation, heating, air conditioning, roofing or railroad cars.
They are responsible for creating, installing and repairing or providing maintenance work for the special equipment they handle.
Metal Worker Salary and Career Path
The job growth rate for all Metal Workers is expected to grow by about 6% until the year 2016.
This rate is considered low when compared to other professions.
Metal Workers in construction are expected to have the most optimistic job outlook out of all Metal Worker professions.
The national median wage for all Metal Workers is approximately $19 per hour.
The salary range for this professions is from $11 to $35 dollars.
Exact wages will depend on the specialty, years of experience and the regional location.
