Metal Fabricator job description: A metal fabricator in the construction industry is responsible for creating metal structures that will be used in construction projects. They work with raw materials, such as steel and aluminum, and use tools such as saws, drills, and welding equipment to shape and join these materials together. These skilled workers must be able to read blueprints and follow instructions closely to ensure that each structure is created precisely according to the project’s specifications. They may also be responsible for performing maintenance work on existing structures, as well as designing and creating new ones. Metal fabricators may work independently or as part of a team, and must be able to work efficiently and safely in a variety of environmental conditions. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a metal fabricator, you should have a strong attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and excellent problem-solving skills.
To be a Metal Fabricator in the Construction industry, you usually need a high school diploma or equivalent education. Some metal fabrication jobs may also require technical training from community colleges or vocational schools. The training usually covers welding and cutting techniques, reading blueprints, and using different hand tools and machines. Experience is also essential, and apprenticeships or on-the-job training may be available. Metal Fabricators are also required to have excellent attention to detail, able to read and interpret plans, and know how to work with different metals, including aluminum, steel, and other alloys. They should also have excellent problem-solving skills, work well in a team, and able to work in physically demanding environments.
Metal Fabricators are in demand in the Construction industry, providing support in designing, manufacturing, and maintaining metal structures. According to recent data, the average Metal Fabricator salary range in the United States is around $17.36 to $26.03 per hour, with an average annual salary of $45,287. This amount may vary depending on the location, experience, and skill level of the Metal Fabricator. In Canada, the average salary range is approximately CAD$19.54 to CAD$28.13 per hour, with an average annual salary of CAD$51,738. In the United Kingdom, the average salary range is around £9.00 to £15.00 per hour, with an average annual salary of £22,946.
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If you're interested in becoming a Metal Fabricator in the construction industry, the career outlook looks promising over the next five years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of metal fabricators is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. One of the reasons for this growth is an increase in construction projects that require metal structures, such as bridges, skyscrapers, and stadiums.
Additionally, the demand for metal fabricators is escalating because of the growing emphasis on green building practices. This means that more construction firms are using sustainable materials, such as metal, to reduce their environmental impact. All in all, the prospects for metal fabricators in the construction industry are looking up.
Sources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Metal and Plastic Machine Workers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/metal-and-plastic-machine-workers.htm
Construction Dive - Steel and aluminum tariffs won't hold back red-hot commercial construction market: https://www.constructiondive.com/news/steel-and-aluminum-tariffs-wont-hold-back-red-hot-commercial-construction-ma/526865/
Metal Architecture - Sustainable trends in metal: https://www.metalarchitecture.com/articles/sustainable-trends-in-metal
Q: What exactly does a Metal Fabricator do in the Construction industry?
A: A Metal Fabricator creates and assembles metal structures and products using specialized tools and techniques.
Q: What skills are needed to become a Metal Fabricator?
A: A Metal Fabricator must be skilled in measurements, blueprint reading, cutting and bending metal, welding, machining, and mechanical skills.
Q: What are the physical requirements for the job of a Metal Fabricator?
A: A Metal Fabricator must have good physical strength, coordination, and dexterity to work with heavy materials, operate machinery, and work in different positions.
Q: What are the safety measures a Metal Fabricator must follow in the Construction industry?
A: A Metal Fabricator must wear safety gear like gloves, goggles, and masks when cutting, welding, or manipulating metal. They also need to be aware of safety protocols and procedures.
Q: What is the work environment like for a Metal Fabricator in the Construction industry?
A: A Metal Fabricator generally works in a metal fabrication shop or on a construction site, and works with other construction workers, contractors, and supervisors. The job can be noisy, dusty, and require standing for long periods.