Structural Iron and Steel Workers
What is a Structural Iron and Steel Worker?
Structural Iron and Steel Workers are skilled tradespeople who work with iron and steel to construct and install frameworks for buildings, bridges, and other structures. Their work involves interpreting blueprints and schematics to determine the specifications needed for components, as well as selecting and cutting materials to the required size. These workers are responsible for erecting steel structures at construction sites, utilizing cranes to position large steel beams, columns, and girders. They often work at significant heights and must follow strict safety protocols to ensure both their safety and that of their co-workers. In addition to welding and bolting steel components together, they may also install metal stairs, catwalks, and other structural elements. Structural Iron and Steel Workers typically collaborate with other construction professionals, including engineers and architects, to ensure that their work aligns with the overall design and specifications of the project.
Tasks
- Read specifications or blueprints to determine the locations, quantities, or sizes of materials required.
- Connect columns, beams, and girders with bolts, following blueprints and instructions from supervisors.
- Bolt aligned structural steel members in position for permanent riveting, bolting, or welding into place.
- Fasten structural steel members to hoist cables, using chains, cables, or rope.
- Hoist steel beams, girders, or columns into place, using cranes or signaling hoisting equipment operators to lift and position structural steel members.
Technology Skills
-
Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
-
Project management software
- Cost estimating software
- Project scheduling software
-
Accounting software
- Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal
-
Inventory management software
- Inventory tracking software
-
Computer aided design CAD software
Tools Used
- Screwdrivers
- Levels
- Welding masks
- Punches or nail sets or drifts
- Safety harnesses or belts
Knowledge
-
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.
-
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
-
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
-
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
-
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Skills
-
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
-
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
-
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
-
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.
-
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Abilities
-
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.
-
Static Strength
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
-
High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
-
Less than high school diploma
-
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)
Work Activities
-
Handling and Moving Objects
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
-
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
-
Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
-
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
-
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Detailed Work Activities
- Review blueprints or specifications to determine work requirements.
- Install metal structural components.
- Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
- Signal equipment operators to indicate proper equipment positioning.
- Verify alignment of structures or equipment.
Work Interests
-
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.
-
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
$40510.0 - $105010.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.