Sheet Metal Worker
The Work
Sheet metal workers, also known as platers, make objects from metal and prepare them for assembly or use. This could include making panels for cars, aeroplanes and ships, or components for constructions such as oil rigs.
Sheet metal workers work with thin sheets of metal for light products, while platers work with heavier, thick plates which are cut, bent and joined to form the required shapes.
They may have to follow diagrams, engineering drawings, blueprints or written instructions. They cut and shape the metal either using hand tools or machines.
Computer-controlled equipment is starting to replace or supplement these manual methods.
Hours and Conditions
Sheet metal workers usually work a 37- to 39-hour basic week, which may include shifts. Overtime is very common, however, and most sheet metal workers and platers work much longer hours.
They wear protective clothing and equipment, such as ear protectors and boiler suits.
Sheet metal workers work alone or in small teams. Their workshops are usually relatively small. Platers work in workshops or on construction sites outdoors in all weather conditions. They can also work in a team with other craftspeople.
Skills and Interests
To become a sheet metal worker you should:
Training
Craft training as a sheet metal worker is usually on-the-job, combined with part-time study at a college or, in the case of the larger employers, in company training centres.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
You will complete up to three years' on-the-job training working alongside experienced sheet metal workers. The resulting qualification is an NVQ / SVQ in Engineering Production at Level 3, plus an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship Certificate.
NASEC apprentices do 20 months' off-the-job training in a training centre, followed by on-the-job training on actual engineering construction sites. The resulting award is NVQ / SVQ in Engineering Construction Level 3 and an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship Certificate.
Opportunities
Sheet metal workers and platers work in manufacturing industries such as car, aircraft, ventilation equipment and office furniture manufacture. They also work for engineering and civil engineering companies involved in projects that require the fabrication of large metal structures, such as oil rigs and storage tanks.
Most sheet metal work is available in the Midlands, North East, South Wales, London and the South East of England.
Heavy engineering companies and bases of engineering construction companies, which employ platers, tend to be in Scotland and the north of England. There are also opportunities to work abroad.
Promotion is usually to supervisor or foreman / woman, and from there to middle management. It is possible for platers and sheet metal workers who have completed their craft training to move on to train as engineering technicians.
It is possible for sheet metal workers to start their own business.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
Salary rates for sheet metal workers and platers can vary widely depending on the location and responsibilities.
Starting pay for trainees is around £12,000 a year.
Experienced workers earn up to £20,000+ a year.
Skilled workers using computer-controlled equipment may earn up to £25,000+ a year.
Shift work and overtime may increase these rates considerably.
Further Information
Channel 4 is not responsible for the content of third party websites.
SEMTA (Science Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies Alliance)
Tel: 0808 100 3682
www.semta.org.uk
Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB)
Tel: 01923 402111
www.ecitb.org.uk
The Welding Institute (TWI)
Tel: 01223 891162
www.twi.co.uk
