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What is a sheet metal fabricator and how to become one
Sheet metal fabricators are responsible for fabricating or installing products made from thin metal sheets, such as ducts used in heating and air conditioning systems. They select sheet metal types according to building or design plans and then install those sheets with supportive frameworks. They also measure and mark dimensions and reference lines on metal sheets while drilling holes in the metals for screws, bolts, and rivets.
Sheet metal fabricators earn an average salary of $34,000 annually or $16 per hour. They weld various metal constructions, components, and structures, and they do this by reading and understanding engineering blueprints and plans to know exactly what is required of the project. They use various tools to work with metal, such as cutting saws, and then weld and grind fabricated structures to meet structural requirements. They also need to perform detailed quality checks to ensure that it meets all standards and requirements.
Sheet metal fabricators typically hold a high school diploma or GED. However, a bachelor's degree in a related field may prove advantageous in the long run. They are expected to have some proven work experience in a similar role. Some employers prefer candidates with a keen eye for detail and the ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
Avg. Salary $40,224
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate -1%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.85%
Asian 2.66%
Black or African American 8.68%
Hispanic or Latino 18.63%
Unknown 3.34%
White 65.85%
Genderfemale 5.57%
male 94.43%
Age - 45American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 45Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Sheet metal fabricator career paths
Key steps to become a sheet metal fabricator
Explore sheet metal fabricator education requirements
Start to develop specific sheet metal fabricator skills
Skills Percentages Hand Tools 19.32% Math 6.68% HVAC 5.63% MIG 5.03% Punch Press 4.87% Complete relevant sheet metal fabricator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 2-4 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New sheet metal fabricators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a sheet metal fabricator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real sheet metal fabricator resumes.Research sheet metal fabricator duties and responsibilities
- Manage large-scale industrial and commercial HVAC installation and service projects.
- Weld and fabricate projects of stainless steel, carbon steel, and aluminum using MIG welding or TIG welding.
- Perform pattern layout, construct fabricate materials by MIG welding, TIG welding, or standard pop rivets.
- Input data into a CNC plasma machine and cut duct work.
Prepare your sheet metal fabricator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your sheet metal fabricator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a sheet metal fabricator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable sheet metal fabricator resume templates
Build a professional sheet metal fabricator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your sheet metal fabricator resume.
Apply for sheet metal fabricator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a sheet metal fabricator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first sheet metal fabricator job
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Average sheet metal fabricator salary
The average sheet metal fabricator salary in the United States is $40,224 per year or $19 per hour. Sheet metal fabricator salaries range between $29,000 and $54,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do sheet metal fabricators rate their job?
Sheet metal fabricator reviews
It’s a daily challenge, but when you can get the right personnel, it runs great. I take challenges head on and we complete the projects as scheduled.
Not receiving the right information about the project and the scope of work to be performed.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing General Physical Activities Communicating with Persons Outside Organization Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Waiting on delivery
I like sheet metal work because it is what I do best since 1998 till present. I like competing on how well save and of course fast and easy or simple way to accomplish the done job. I love leading my crew through satisfaction. I do read and understand blue print and I could also omitt or revise when there is abstraction.i do estimate sheet metal needed for the certain job. I do layout for fabrication,layout for installation of ducts and insulation I do everything regarding sheet metal duct
I don't like when Lacking projects.
Updated January 8, 2025
