Concrete Form Setter

A Concrete Form Setter is a critical member of the construction team responsible for building and shaping the forms that hold the concrete in place. This job requires a strong work ethic, physical fitness, and attention to detail. Concrete Form Setters must understand blueprint and schematics, as they will be responsible for setting up the forms that shape the concrete into the desired structure. Prior experience in construction work and familiarity with hand and power tools is helpful in this role. This job requires precise calculations and measurements, ensuring that the concrete forms are level and secure. Concrete Form Setters must be comfortable working outside in all types of weather conditions and lifting heavy objects. As a Concrete Form Setter, you will play an essential role in completing construction projects that meet the highest standards. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career, consider applying for a Concrete Form Setter job description.

• Lay out and mark concrete forms according to blueprints and specifications.
• Install and secure forms for pouring concrete, using hand tools and power tools.
• Cut, shape, and fit materials to form walls, columns, and other structures.
• Insert steel reinforcement and embedded items, such as anchor bolts and conduits, prior to pouring concrete.
• Use levels and transit levels to ensure that forms are level and straight.
• Clean and maintain forms and tools, and mix and apply release agents to prevent concrete from sticking to forms.
• Remove forms and clean and prepare concrete surfaces for finishing.
• Communicate with other construction team members to ensure that concrete form work is aligned with project schedules and timelines.
• Follow safety procedures and guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries on the job site.

To become a concrete form setter in the construction industry, you need a mix of education and experience. Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, with math and blueprint reading courses being helpful. You may also need to complete an apprenticeship program, learn from a mentor, or take vocational classes. Experience-wise, you should have at least one year of work in concrete forming, whether it's in residential or commercial settings. You should know how to measure and cut lumber, how to read and interpret construction drawings, and how to operate hand tools and power tools safely. Physical fitness, teamwork, and attention to detail are also important traits.

Concrete Form Setters are skilled tradespeople who play a vital role in the construction industry. They are responsible for setting up forms, pouring concrete, and ensuring structures meet safety standards. If you're wondering about Concrete Form Setter salary range in the United States, the expected salary range is between $14 to $30 per hour, or roughly $29,000 to $62,000 annually. The amount can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of project. According to Payscale, the average hourly rate for a concrete form setter in Canada is CAD$28.13, which is roughly USD$22.05. In Australia, the average annual salary is AUD$61,019, which converts to roughly USD$47,477.

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Sources:

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1. Payscale - Concrete Form Setter Salary in Canada
2. Indeed - Concrete Form Setter Salaries in Australia
3. Salary.com - Concrete Form Setter Salaries in the United States

The demand for Concrete Form Setters in the construction industry is expected to increase by 11% over the next five years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations. 

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As the population grows, so does the need for infrastructure and buildings, making Concrete Form Setters essential in the construction process. Additionally, as technology advancements continue to evolve, it is expected that the job duties of a Concrete Form Setter will become more specialized and require higher levels of skill.

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A career in concrete form setting can lead to advancement opportunities and job stability in a growing industry. It's important to note that physical fitness and work experience are preferred for this type of job, according to O*NET OnLine.

Q: What does a Concrete Form Setter do?

A: A Concrete Form Setter is responsible for building molds or forms that hold concrete in place while it sets.

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Q: What tools does a Concrete Form Setter use?

A: A Concrete Form Setter uses measuring tapes, hammers, saws, drills, and shovels, as well as other hand tools, to create the required framework for the concrete.

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Q: What are some necessary skills for a Concrete Form Setter?

A: A Concrete Form Setter must be proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, have good hand-eye coordination, be able to work with various building materials and tools, and have a basic understanding of arithmetic.

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Q: Is this job physically demanding?

A: Yes, this job requires working outside all year round, bending and standing in awkward positions, as well as lifting heavy objects, so it can be physically demanding.

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Q: What are some common work environments for a Concrete Form Setter?

A: A Concrete Form Setter usually works on construction sites or industrial facilities. They may work for a contractor or be self-employed. The work can involve long hours and weekends, depending on the project schedule.