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Sheet Metal Worker

Do you want to become a Sheet Metal Worker? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

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• Sheet metal workers or platers make various 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. Platers work with heavier, thick plates, which are cut, bent and joined to form the required shapes.
• Workers follow diagrams, engineering drawings, blueprints or written instructions to draw the cutting lines and patterns onto the sheets of metal. They then cut and shape the metal either using hand tools or machines.

Sheet metal workers/platers normally work a 37 to 39-hour basic week, which may include shifts. 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.

Salaries range from around £12,000 up to £25,000 a year.

Sheet metal workers should:

• have practical hand skills for using tools and equipment
• have a good level of concentration
• have mathematical ability and computer skills
• be able to understand technical drawings and visualise finished products.

Employers are manufacturing industries such as car, aircraft, ventilation equipment and office furniture manufacture. Opportunities are also with engineering and civil engineering companies involved in projects such as oil rigs and storage tanks.

New entrants normally enter through a Modern Apprenticeship, or do craft training on the job. There is no upper age limit, but it is rare to start in this occupation as an adult except for people from related skill areas such as vehicle body repairing.

Self-employment is possible. There are also opportunities to work abroad, either for UK companies or foreign ones. Promotion is usually to supervisor or foreman/woman, and to middle management.

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