Steel Erector
What is the work like?
Steel erectors work in the construction and engineering industries, installing and fixing together the prefabricated steel girders, pipework and beams that make up the framework of buildings and structures.
As a steel erector, you could work on projects of all sizes, including office developments, factory units, housing, sports stadiums and bridges. Your main duties would include:
- planning which order to fit the steelwork together following instructions drawn up by engineers
- lifting and guiding components into position with tower cranes
- lining up and levelling steelwork before securing it in place by bolting or welding methods
- working from mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs - cherry pickers or scissor lifts) to gain safe access to sections off the ground
- working on the structure itself at heights beyond the reach of MEWPs
- laying down metal decking, and fixing safety netting and edge rails as you build up the structure.
You would normally work in a small team. Health and safety is very important and you would be expected to follow safe working practices at all times.
Your job would also involve dismantling steelwork on demolition jobs. With training, you may be able to carry out steel fabrication and fixing work on site.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not need any qualifications for this type of work, but you may find it helpful if you have some GCSEs (A-E) in maths, English, science and technology, or equivalent vocational qualifications in construction or engineering.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme with a building or engineering firm. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
The nature of the work means you would be travelling from site to site, so you may need a driving licence.
See ConstructionSkills or the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) for more details about steel erecting as a career.
What further training and development can I do?
You would do most of your training on the job and you can work towards various NVQs, including:
- NVQ in Steelfixing Occupations Level 2
- NVQ in Constructing Capital Plant Steel Structures (Erecting) Level 3
- NVQ in Constructional Steelwork Site Operations Level 2 (has options in Erecting Structural Steelwork and Installing Metal Floor Decking).
The NVQs contain units on:
- cutting and shaping steel
- installing in-situ and/or prefabricated steel
- using power tools
- operating powered access equipment (mobile platforms and cherry pickers)
- safe working practices.
A Powered Access Licence (PAL) would be useful for this kind of work. Contractors recognise it as proof that you can operate mobile elevated work platforms on site. For more information about PALs and details of training providers, see the International Powered Access Federation’s website.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)
Most construction and engineering firms now insist that you have a CSCS card or be part of related scheme to work on their sites. The card is proof of your skills and competence. To get your card you must:
- pass a health and safety assessment
- have a relevant NVQ (or equivalent qualification).
If you are working without qualifications, you may be able to use On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) or Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA) to get your NVQ and card. Contact CSCS and ECITB for further details.
Where can I go for more information?
Head OfficeBridge End Business Park
Milnthorpe
LA7 7RH
King's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6RH
Tel: 01485 577577
Church Lane
Kings Langley
Hertfordshire
WD4 8JP
Tel: 01923 260000
NASEC Administration: 01923 402155
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are between £12,000 and £16,000 a year.
- Experienced steel erectors can earn between £19,000 and £25,000 a year.
- Erectors with extra responsibilities can earn up to £30,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work around 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Overtime at weekends may be necessary to meet deadlines.
Most of your work would be outdoors, at heights and would be physically demanding. Your employer would provide you with personal safety equipment on all jobs.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- the ability to follow engineering instructions and plans accurately
- a good head for heights and sense of balance
- good teamworking skills
- good fitness levels
- a high level of practical skills
- an awareness of health and safety practices.
What opportunities are there?
You are likely to find most job opportunities with engineering construction companies, and steel fixing and steel erecting firms. Jobs would be advertised in the local press, Jobcentre Plus and on company websites.
With experience, you could move into supervisory roles.
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