Sheet Metal Worker: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Sheet Metal Worker
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Practice Now »What is a Sheet Metal Worker?
A Sheet Metal Worker is a type of metal working machine operative who specifically works with thin sheets of metal, using machines and tools to cut, shape and smooth them for various uses. This role involves precise manual work and can lead to producing parts for anything from cars to air conditioning units.
Skills
- Proficiency in operating metalworking machinery and equipment
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints
- Knowledge of different metal materials and their properties
- Strong attention to detail and precision in measuring and cutting metal sheets
- Experience in using hand tools and power tools for metal fabrication
- Understanding of health and safety regulations in a metalworking environment
- Effective problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve issues during the fabrication process
- Good communication skills to collaborate with team members and follow instructions accurately
Qualifications & Education
- No formal academic entry requirements
- On-the-job training provided
- NVQs/SVQs in Engineering Machining available
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, being a sheet metal worker can be hard due to the physical labor involved and the potential risk of illness and injury.
A sheet metal worker in the UK fabricates, assembles, installs, and repairs sheet metal products. They use computerized equipment to bend, straighten, and cut sheet metal, as well as weld sheet metal parts and polish seams, joints, and rough surfaces.
The demand for sheet metal workers in the UK is projected to show little or no change from 2021 to 2031. However, there are still expected to be around 12,300 job openings for sheet metal workers each year, on average, over the next decade.
There are several jobs you can get with metal work, including steel erector, welder, boilermaker, pipefitter, millwright, blacksmith, gunsmith, and marquetarian (although this job often deals with non-metallic materials as well).
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