What does a Sheet Metal Worker do?
Published 4 min read
A sheet metal worker is a tradesman who fabricates, installs, and repairs products made from thin metal sheets. These products include ductwork for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems; gutters and downspouts; roofing; siding; car bodies; and many other objects.
Sheet metal workers use a variety of tools to cut, bend, roll, shape, and weld metal sheets into the desired product. They must be able to read and interpret blueprints or engineering drawings in order to create products that meet the specifications laid out by the designer.
Most sheet metal workers are employed by construction firms, HVAC contractors, or manufacturing companies. Some sheet metal workers are self-employed and work on a contract basis.
Sheet Metal Worker job duties include:
- Operate hand and power tools to cut, bend, and straighten sheet metal.
- Measure and mark dimensions of parts on paper or steel for fabrication.
- Align and fit parts according to templates, blueprints, or oral instructions.
- Bolt, clamp, rivet, weld, solder, braze, glue, or fasten parts to assemble products.
- File, grind, sandpaper, buff, or otherwise finish surfaces of assembled products.
- Inspect completed work for conformance to specifications and defects.
- Repair damaged products or return them to supervisors for reworking.
- Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving equipment to position parts during assembly.
- Record production data such as the number of products produced and hours worked.
Sheet Metal Worker Job Requirements
Most sheet metal workers have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as an associate's degree in sheet metal technology. Many workers also receive on-the-job training that can last up to four years. Some states require sheet metal workers to be licensed, although requirements vary. Many employers prefer to hire workers who have completed an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeship programs typically last three or four years and include a combination of classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training.
Sheet Metal Worker Skills
- Operating various hand and power tools
- Interpreting blueprints, sketches or product specifications
- Selecting the appropriate sheet metal
- Measuring, cutting, bending and shaping sheet metal
- Joining sheet metal components together
- Assembling and installing ductwork, roofing, gutters and flashing
- Installing metal siding, roofing and trim
- Repairing or replacing damaged sheet metal components
- Inspecting completed work for conformance to specifications
- Maintaining a clean and safe work environment
- Adhering to all safety rules and regulations
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How to become a Sheet Metal Worker
A sheet metal worker is someone who fabricates, installs, and repairs products made from thin metal sheets. They use a variety of tools and machines to cut, bend, and shape the metal into the desired product.
If you're interested in becoming a sheet metal worker, there are a few things you need to know. First, you'll need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You'll also need to complete an apprenticeship program that lasts about four years. During your apprenticeship, you'll learn the basics of the trade and gain hands-on experience working with sheet metal.
Once you've completed your apprenticeship, you'll be able to find entry-level jobs in the field. However, if you want to advance your career, you may want to consider getting certified by the Sheet Metal Workers International Association (SMWIA). This certification will show potential employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful sheet metal worker.
If you're interested in a career as a sheet metal worker, start by completing an apprenticeship program and getting certified by the SMWIA. With hard work and dedication, you can become a skilled tradesperson and find success in this rewarding field.
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