Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker Job Description
Overview
A Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker is responsible for fabricating, installing, and repairing a variety of metal products. This includes anything from HVAC systems to architectural pieces like flashings, roofs, siding, and more. The job requires someone who is highly skilled in the use of specialized tools such as shears, brakes, welding equipment etc., as well as having knowledge of fabrication principles and techniques. A journeyman sheet metal worker must be able to read blueprints accurately in order to understand the dimensions of each part they are building or repairing. They must also be able to work safely with all types of metals including aluminum and stainless steel while meeting tigh...
Steps to take to start your career as a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker and other jobs like it
- To become a sheet metal worker, most positions require at least a high school diploma or GED, with beneficial courses including mathematics, mechanical drawing, and industrial arts. Additionally, while optional, enrolling in a technical school or community college offering courses in sheet metal work or related fields can provide a solid foundation in the necessary skills and knowledge. It’s possible though, if you have practical experience already, to be employed in this field without a formal diploma or certification.
- Technical Skills: Learn to operate tools and machinery used in sheet metal work, such as shears, brakes, and welders. Mathematics and Precision: Develop strong math skills for measuring and cutting metal accurately. Attention to detail is crucial for ensuring that parts fit correctly. Safety Procedures: Understand and follow safety procedures to minimize risks and avoid accidents while working with metal and heavy machinery.
- Apply for an apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction and typically lasts 3-5 years. During the apprenticeship, you'll learn to read blueprints, fabricate and install metal components, and use specialized tools. If an apprenticeship isn't immediately available, consider starting in an entry-level position or working as an assistant to gain hands-on experience and industry knowledge.
- Some regions or employers may require certification, such as those offered by the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA). Additionally, check local regulations to see if specific licenses are needed to work as a sheet metal worker in your area.
Pos and Cons of Being a Sheet Metal Worker
The benefits are great. The pay is great. And the retirement is also good. Great place to excel. If you want to advance in a company, get out there and be a foreman. Be a site foreman or a general foreman on the job site. The cons are, well, it's very strenuous work. You’ve got to make sure you're fit at all times. Don't come in sick or injured from the previous day. You can let them know, but you’ve got to get a lot of rest.
Requirements
You’ve got to have a high school diploma. You’ve got to be able to do math. So to get in, you’ve got to pass the test. There's a test, and you’ve got to get at least 75% correct on the math test.
Average Day
On an average day, you start at six, and it's offloading trucks with material that's coming in. Or they’ve got you installing ductwork. Mostly what I was doing was commercial work, like hospitals, big buildings, and elevator shafts, stuff like that. Everything we make is fabricated in the shop, but if we can fabricate things in the field, that's even better for us. It makes you look good as an individual. We can get the job done. For me, there's a lot of pride. In San Francisco, there were buildings right next to the Bay Bridge that we worked on, and people were paying millions for them. I’d sit there eating lunch, thinking I’d better enjoy the view because people are paying millions for it, and I’m getting paid to enjoy it for free.
Tips for Getting Into a Trade
If you don’t have any other skills and you’re trying to gain one, go to trade school. There’s plumbing, electrical work, sheet metal, and a lot of trades. Anybody can get in. If you’re willing to work hard and bust your behind, then it’s there for you.
Career Advice
Take the challenges. If they give you a challenge that you can't do, say, "I’m not great at it, but I’ll give it a good shot." As long as you try, they’re willing to work with you. Don’t say no. Just say, "I’ll give it a shot."
Education you need to become a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker
These are the most common degrees or certificates earned by Jobtrees users prior to becoming a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker
There may be other required degrees or certifications needed for this job. The below info shows you the most commonly desired education level from employers when hiring for this job.
- Bachelor of Science (b.sc.) in History
- Bachelor of Arts (b.a.) in Psychology
Annual Pay Estimate for Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker and Other Important Info
See how many years Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker's are in their job, how much they make, how long it took to get there and how available this job is in terms of open positions.
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