If you are interested in engineering and hands-on work, a job as a sheet metal worker could be the right fit for you. However, before you start taking steps to getting an education to do the job, you should know what is involved in the position.

Position Description

Typically sheet metal workers work on installing products with thin metal sheets. The duties would include a variety of the following:

• Installing metal sheets for frameworks
• Fastening seams using welding, bolting, and soldering
• Altering parts at a construction site
• Marking dimensions on the metal sheets
• Installing ducts for heating and ventilation
• Ensuring HVAC systems are properly working with the metal

You will need to be physically strong as you will be required to constantly be on your feet and moving. You may be climbing high and cannot be afraid of heights if you will be working with ducts.

Pay

The annual wage paid to sheet metal workers in May 2015 was $45, 750 for the year or $21.99 per hour. The more experience you have, the higher you will be paid.

Education

You do not need to have extensive education to take this position. A high school diploma or GED is customarily required. Having a Bachelor's degree may help you acquire a higher pay grade; however, it is not necessary. Many colleges have a few general vocational courses. While you do not need a degree, taking one or two of these classes can help prepare you mentally for the type of work you will be doing. It can also give you a snapshot into the job and help you know whether or not it is something you would like to do long term. The classes will generally include specifics on welding, blueprint reading, and mechanical drawing. There may be a more specific course that focuses on metalworking.

Setting aside traditional classroom education, a position in stainless steel fabrication will usually require some sort of apprenticeship. Apprenticeships will include a majority of paid on-the-job training and a small amount of technical instruction. These programs vary depending on the company with whom you apprentice. You must have a high school diploma and be at least eighteen years old to enter most apprenticeships. Some may hold out special positions for veterans. You will learn the practices necessary to be an efficient sheet metal worker with that business. After your internship, you could be hired to a full-time metal worker position.