Steeplejack: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Steeplejack
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Practice Now »What is a Steeplejack?
A Steeplejack is a specialized construction worker who works at great heights, often in repairing and maintaining tall structures like steeples, industrial chimneys and towers. They are responsible for erecting and dismantling scaffolding, setting up lifting equipment, working with ropes, wires and cables, and ensuring the overall structural integrity of these high-rise buildings.
Skills
- Height safety and working at heights
- Rigging and rope access techniques
- Structural inspection and maintenance
- Welding and fabrication
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Teamwork and communication skills
- Health and safety regulations compliance
- Physical fitness and stamina
- Ability to work in challenging weather conditions
- Attention to detail and precision
Qualifications & Education
- No formal academic entry requirements
- On-the-job training provided
- Skilled workers must obtain Construction Skills recognised scaffolders record scheme cards
- Completion of approved courses and further work experience required for card acquisition
- NVQs/SVQs in Scaffolding available at Levels 2 and 3
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
To become a steeplejack in the UK, you can apply directly to employers. They may require GCSEs or equivalent qualifications in subjects like maths, English, science, or design and technology. Having experience in general construction, scaffolding, roofing, or electrical work can also be beneficial.
Yes, steeplejacks in the UK were generally well paid, earning higher wages than bricklayers. The hourly rate varied between three and six shillings, sometimes exceeding four shillings. Additionally, there were opportunities for overtime and weekend work, further increasing their earnings.
A steeplejack is a person who performs repair work at great heights on various structures such as construction sites, power stations, high rise buildings, monuments, and castles. They ensure that these structures are structurally sound and may also install lightning conductors.
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