What does a Steel Worker do?
Published 3 min read
A steel worker is a person who works with steel. They may work in a factory setting, or they may work on construction sites. Steel workers typically use tools to cut, shape, and weld steel.
Steel Worker job duties include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications to determine the type of structure or object to be fabricated
- Select the type of steel required to fabricate a product
- Cut steel with oxyacetylene torches, plasma cutters, or other cutting equipment
- Shape steel using hammers, hand brakes, or presses
- Weld steel components together using welding equipment
- Inspect completed welds to ensure they meet specifications
- Grind or sand edges and surfaces of fabricated products to remove rough spots or sharp edges
- Position and clamp workpieces together to tack-weld them in place prior to welding them together permanently
- Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, or other lifting devices to move heavy workpieces
Steel Worker Job Requirements
A steel worker must have a high school diploma or equivalent. They must complete on-the-job training, which takes about three months. They must also pass a welding safety certification. Steel workers typically have two to five years of experience.
Steel Worker Skills
- Hardworking
- Physically strong
- Good at following instructions
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Good stamina
- Ability to work in a team
- Ability to work long hours
- Attention to detail
- Safety conscious
- Experience with power tools
- Experience with welding
Related: Top Steel Worker Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Steel Worker
A steelworker is someone who works with the metal known as steel. Steelworkers can be found in factories, where they operate machinery to create steel products, or in construction sites, where they use steel to build structures. Steelworkers must be strong and have good coordination, as well as being able to follow instructions carefully. If you are interested in becoming a steelworker, here are a few things you need to do.
1. Get a high school diploma or equivalent. Although there are some jobs in the steel industry that do not require an education beyond high school, most employers prefer to hire workers who have at least a diploma or equivalent. Getting good grades in math and science will give you a better chance of being hired.
2. Complete an apprenticeship program. Many steelworkers learn their trade through apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprenticeship programs typically last three to four years, and you will be paid while you learn.
3. Get certified. Some states require steelworkers to be certified by the American Welding Society or other organizations. Certification shows that you have the skills necessary to do the job and can help you get hired.
4. Find a job. Once you have the necessary skills and credentials, you can start looking for a job in the steel industry. You can search for open positions online, at job fairs, or through your network of contacts.
Related: Steel Worker Resume Example
Related: Steel Worker Interview Questions (With Example Answers)