Steel Fixer
What is the work like?
Steel fixing is a method of reinforcing concrete buildings and structures on construction and engineering sites. As a steel fixer, you would fit and secure the steel bars and mesh used to make the reinforcements.
You would work on various developments including commercial and industrial units, multi-storey housing and civil engineering projects like roadworks, tunnels and bridges. On most jobs, your tasks could include:
- setting out the work area, following engineering plans
- using hand and power tools to cut and bend bars or mesh
- tying rebar (reinforcement bars) together with wire, clips or welds to build up cages or sections
- fitting spacers and ‘chairs’ (supports)
- fixing the formwork and shuttering used to hold setting concrete in place
- joining cages and sections
- fixing steel to concrete bases
- installing beams and pre-cast slabs.
You may use hydraulic jacks and tensioning equipment to reinforce the steel before and after fixing it.
On all jobs, you would work closely with engineering designers, steel erectors and other construction tradespeople.
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 work-based 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 fixing 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 NVQ awards, 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 cover:
- 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) could 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 an 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
Church Lane
Kings Langley
Hertfordshire
WD4 8JP
Tel: 01923 260000
NASEC Administration: 01923 402155
King's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6RH
Tel: 01485 577577
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 fixers can earn between £17,000 and £25,000 a year.
- Fixers with extra responsibilities like supervising operatives can earn up to £30,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would usually work 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Overtime at weekends may be necessary to meet deadlines.
Most of your work would be outdoors and at heights, and the job is physically demanding. You employer would provide you with personal safety equipment.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- the ability to follow engineering instructions and diagrams accurately
- good practical skills
- a good head for heights
- teamworking skills
- good fitness levels
- an understanding of health and safety issues.
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 jobs.
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