Sheet Metal Workers
Sheet metal workers fabricate or install products that are made from thin metal sheets.
Is sheet metal workers a good career?
It scores 16/100 and ranks #470 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays above the U.S. median wage ($61,800)
- No college degree typically required to enter
Possible tradeoffs
- Slower-than-average projected growth (+2.4%)
What sheet metal workers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. sheet metal workers earn between $47,830 and $81,610 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Live sheet metal workers jobs
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- Typical education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- Apprenticeship
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow slower than average through 2034.
Education
Sheet metal workers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Those interested in becoming a sheet metal worker should take high school classes in algebra and geometry. Vocational-education courses such as blueprint reading, mechanical drawing, and welding are also helpful.
Technical schools may have programs that teach welding and metalworking. These programs help provide the basic welding and sheet metal fabrication knowledge that sheet metal workers need to do their job.
Some manufacturers have partnerships with local technical schools to develop training programs specific to their factories.
Training
Most construction sheet metal workers learn their trade through 4- or 5-year apprenticeships, which include both paid on-the-job training and related technical instruction. Apprentices learn construction basics such as blueprint reading, math, building code requirements, and safety and first aid practices. Welding may be included as part of the training.
Some workers start out as helpers before entering apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship programs are sponsored by unions and businesses. The basic qualifications for entering an apprenticeship program are being 18 years old and having a high school diploma or the equivalent.
After completing an apprenticeship program, sheet metal workers are considered journey workers who are qualified to perform tasks on their own.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Some states require licenses for sheet metal workers. Check with your state
Although not required, sheet metal workers may earn certifications for several tasks that they perform. For example, some sheet metal workers become certified in welding.
Important qualities
Detail oriented. Sheet metal workers must precisely measure and cut, follow detailed directions, and monitor their surroundings for safety risks.
Dexterity. Sheet metal workers need good hand–eye coordination and motor control to make precise cuts and bends in metal pieces.
Math skills. Sheet metal workers must calculate the proper sizes and angles of fabricated sheet metal to ensure the alignment and fit of ductwork.
Mechanical skills. Sheet metal workers use saws, lasers, shears, and presses. They should have good mechanical skills in order to operate and maintain equipment.
Physical stamina. Sheet metal workers in factories may spend many hours standing at their workstation.
Physical strength. Sheet metal workers must be able to lift and move ductwork that is heavy and cumbersome. Some jobs require workers to push, pull, or lift 50 pounds or more.
Related occupations
How much do sheet metal workers make?
The national median wage is $61,800 a year, with the middle half earning between $47,830 and $81,610 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is sheet metal workers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 16 of 100 and ranks #470 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +2.4% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a sheet metal worker?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent.
Where do sheet metal workers earn the most?
Among states, Washington pays the highest median ($98,550). Local pay for every state and metro is below.