Sheet Metal Workers
What is a Sheet Metal Worker?
Sheet Metal Workers are skilled craftsmen who specialize in the fabrication, installation, and repair of products made from thin metal sheets. Their work includes constructing ductwork for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as manufacturing metal components for buildings, roofs, and industrial machinery. These professionals utilize various tools and techniques, such as cutting, bending, welding, and assembling metals, to create custom products that meet specific project requirements. Sheet Metal Workers often interpret blueprints and technical drawings to accurately shape and fit the materials, ensuring precision and quality in their constructions. These tradespeople play a crucial role in the construction and manufacturing industries, contributing to both residential and commercial projects. Their expertise is essential for ensuring effective airflow in ventilation systems, energy efficiency in buildings, and the overall structural integrity of metal installations. Additionally, Sheet Metal Workers must adhere to safety protocols and building codes, making their work both challenging and integral to the success of various engineering solutions.
Tasks
- Maintain equipment, making repairs or modifications when necessary.
- Fabricate ducts for high efficiency heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to maximize efficiency of systems.
- Fasten seams or joints together with welds, bolts, cement, rivets, solder, caulks, metal drive clips, or bonds to assemble components into products or to repair sheet metal items.
- Transport prefabricated parts to construction sites for assembly and installation.
- Install assemblies, such as flashing, pipes, tubes, heating and air conditioning ducts, furnace casings, rain gutters, or downspouts in supportive frameworks.
Technology Skills
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Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- PTC Creo Parametric
- Siemens NX
- XY Soft Sheet Cutting Suite
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Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Applied Production ProFab
- JETCAM Expert
- Striker Systems SS-Profile
- WiCAM PN4000
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Office suite software
- Microsoft Office software
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Operating system software
- Microsoft Windows
Tools Used
- Punches or nail sets or drifts
- Metal folding machine
- Shears
- Rivet tools
- Metal cutters
Knowledge
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
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Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Visualization
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
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Multilimb Coordination
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Less than high school diploma
Work Activities
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
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Communicating with People Outside the Organization
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Detailed Work Activities
- Inspect completed work to ensure proper installation.
- Maintain construction tools or equipment.
- Fabricate parts or components.
- Weld metal components.
- Assemble products or production equipment.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$37000.0 - $100850.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.