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- Jobs Available In Basic Industries
- Jobs Available In Steel/iron Ore
- Is Basic Industries A Good Career Path
- Is Precious Metals A Good Career Path
- Is Metal Fabrications A Good Career Path
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- Jobs Available In Industrial Machinery/Components
- Jobs Available In Metal Fabrications
- What Do Capital Goods Jobs Pay
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Yes, pursuing a career in metal fabrication is a promising choice. The field offers diverse career paths, including opportunities in construction, machinery operation, and metallurgy studies. Many roles do not necessitate a college degree, enabling you to embark on your career path immediately.
These jobs often emphasize hands-on work and the satisfaction of creating tangible products. Many professionals in metal fabrication appreciate the variety in their work, as they frequently engage with different projects and clients throughout their careers.
If the skills and roles mentioned resonate with you, a career in metal fabrication could be a great fit.
Here are 20 excellent job opportunities in Metal Fabrication:
Top 10 High-Paying Jobs in Metal Fabrication
While many positions in metal fabrication may not offer salaries as high as some other fields, they are essential and often require specialized skills. The demand for skilled tradespeople remains strong, making these roles valuable in today’s labor market.
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Average Annual Salary: $45,000
Boilermakers are in high demand, responsible for constructing and maintaining metal vessels and containers for various liquids. This role requires expertise in welding, metal properties, and fittings.
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Average Annual Salary: $85,000
Metallurgical engineers require a bachelor’s degree and specialize in metal extraction and applications. They analyze metal mixtures for various projects, ensuring optimal performance in construction and manufacturing.
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Average Annual Salary: $85,000
Materials scientists explore various construction materials, focusing on innovation and performance enhancement. This role requires creativity and a college education to understand complex material interactions.
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Average Annual Salary: $45,000
A foreman manages construction sites, ensuring safety and client satisfaction. This managerial role requires experience in construction and a comprehensive understanding of various trades involved in projects.
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Average Annual Salary: $52,000
Pipe fitters require extensive knowledge of piping systems and blueprints. They ensure the correct installation of pipes for various applications, including plumbing and HVAC systems.
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Average Annual Salary: $90,000
Metallurgists study metal properties and behaviors, focusing on innovation through research and experiments. Their work supports advancements in materials and manufacturing practices.
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Average Annual Salary: $48,000
Machinists utilize advanced technology and machinery to create precision parts. They must have a solid understanding of materials and fabrication processes.
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Average Annual Salary: $53,000
Millwrights install and maintain industrial machinery, requiring precision and mechanical skills. They play a vital role in ensuring machinery operates efficiently in factories and power plants.
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Average Annual Salary: $46,000
Jewelers design and create intricate jewelry pieces, requiring expertise in metals and gemstones. Their income varies based on skill and experience.
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Average Annual Salary: $54,000
Tool and die makers create tools and dies to precise specifications, requiring in-depth knowledge of machinery and materials. This role is critical in manufacturing processes.
While many of these positions require specialized training or education, it’s possible to enter the field with lower experience levels. However, gaining higher salaries will necessitate time and skill development. If you’re eager to begin your journey in metal fabrication, here are some entry-level opportunities.
10 Entry-Level Jobs in Metal Fabrication
Most metal fabrication careers require some form of apprenticeship. Vocational schools and community colleges often provide the necessary education. Expect a steep learning curve as you acquire skills over time.
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Average Annual Salary: $40,000
Welding is a hands-on trade that demands practice. Most welders undergo apprenticeship programs or attend vocational schools to learn. This skill is essential in numerous metalworking jobs.
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Average Annual Salary: $32,000
Metal finishers perform detail-oriented work, including polishing and removing imperfections from metal pieces. This role requires precision and a good understanding of metals.
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Average Annual Salary: $36,000
Press brake operators handle heavy machinery to bend metal into required shapes. They must understand the equipment and ensure safety during operation.
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Average Annual Salary: $36,000
Metalizing involves applying a metal coating on objects, often for protective or aesthetic purposes. Operators must understand the machinery and processes involved.
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Average Annual Salary: $42,000
Metal stud framers work in construction, specializing in the installation of metal studs for walls. This role requires knowledge of building techniques and tools.
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Average Annual Salary: $36,000
Sheet metal fabricators install various products, including ductwork and vehicle bodies. They must be skilled in measuring and cutting metal accurately.
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Average Annual Salary: $35,000
Solderers work primarily on electronic components, requiring dexterity and knowledge of soldering techniques. They must maintain proper temperatures to avoid damaging materials.
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Metallurgical Laboratory Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $50,000
This entry-level position is ideal for those interested in metallurgy. Laboratory assistants help with research tasks, including equipment setup and data collection.
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Average Annual Salary: $40,000
Iron workers specialize in steel construction, cutting and welding metal according to blueprints. Many receive on-the-job training or attend vocational programs.
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Average Annual Salary: $50,000
Goldsmiths work with precious metals to design and create jewelry. Their income varies based on skill level and the complexity of their work.
Vocational schools provide a solid foundation for these career paths. Many jobs also offer apprenticeship programs or on-the-job training, though entering the trade can be challenging without existing connections.
Why Consider a Career in Metal Fabrication?
Careers in metal fabrication typically involve hands-on work and have a learning curve. However, once you gain experience, your value in the job market increases significantly.
Here are some reasons to consider this field. If these traits resonate with you, a career in metal fabrication may be ideal.
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You enjoy creating tangible products. Most roles in this field lead to visible results, whether constructing a building or crafting intricate metal pieces.
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You thrive on variety. Many positions require shifting focus among different projects, providing a dynamic work environment.
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You prefer hands-on work. Many careers in metal fabrication involve physical labor, demanding dexterity and skill.
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A four-year college degree isn’t your goal. If you want to avoid student debt or prefer to start your career promptly, many roles in this field only require a high school diploma. Vocational training or apprenticeships are excellent pathways.
Education and Certification for Metal Fabrication Careers
Most roles in metal fabrication do not demand a college degree, though it can be beneficial. Vocational schools typically provide the necessary skills, while most individuals enter the field through apprenticeship programs.
Licensing is often required for trades, with bonding acting as a form of insurance. Requirements vary by state, and many trades are certified by industry standards, especially those involving safety risks, like boilermakers or millwrights.
If you’re interested in metallurgy, consider these degree options:
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Metallurgy. A bachelor’s degree in metallurgy is beneficial, though advanced degrees are usually not required.
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Chemistry. This field is relevant for roles such as metallurgical engineers or materials scientists.
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Physics. Understanding the forces acting on metals is crucial, making a physics background valuable.
While apprenticeship programs can be competitive, they offer a great way to learn the trade and build connections, enhancing future job opportunities.
What Do Professionals in Metal Fabrication Do?
Careers in metal fabrication predominantly involve skilled blue-collar work. These jobs require extensive training, knowledge of materials, and the ability to interpret blueprints, often taking place on-site or in factories.
- Manufacturing
- Jobs Available In Basic Industries
- Jobs Available In Steel/iron Ore
- Is Basic Industries A Good Career Path
- Is Precious Metals A Good Career Path
- Is Metal Fabrications A Good Career Path
- Is Auto Parts Oem A Good Career Path
- Is Auto Manufacturing A Good Career Path
- Is Agricultural Chemicals A Good Career Path
- Is Semiconductors A Good Career Path
- Is Industrial Specialties A Good Career Path
- Jobs Available In Industrial Machinery/Components
- Jobs Available In Metal Fabrications
- What Do Capital Goods Jobs Pay
- What Do Basic Industries Jobs Pay
Author
Di has been a writer for more than half her life. Most of her writing so far has been fiction, and she’s gotten short stories published in online magazines Kzine and Silver Blade, as well as a flash fiction piece in the Bookends review. Di graduated from Mary Baldwin College (now University) with a degree in Psychology and Sociology.
