Are you interested in working with grinders and welding machines? Do you have strong attention to detail? If so, a career as a metal fabricator (fitter) may be the right fit for you. Metal fabricators (fitters) are responsible for laying out, preparing, and assembling structural steel and steel components.

Duties of a Metal Fabricator (Fitter)

As a metal fabricator (fitter), your duties may include fabricating structural components for buildings, bridges, and other load-carrying structures. You may also work on plates for tanks, boilers, pressure vessels, and similar products. On a typical project, you will review drawings, plan the sequence of tasks, and determine the most efficient way to cut the steel.

Work Environment and Skills

To complete your tasks, you will use metal-working machines, cutting torches, and other tools to cut steel, drill or punch holes, and shape the metal. You will also assemble and fit metal sections and plates together to create complete units or sub-units. It's important to note that safety is a priority in this profession, as there is some risk of injury when working with heavy materials and power tools.

Qualifications and Salary

Metal fabricators (fitters) typically work indoors in shops, with a standard 40-hour workweek. However, there may be times when you have to put in overtime to meet project deadlines. This profession requires physical strength, stamina, coordination, and manual dexterity. An apprenticeship and certification are typically required for this profession, and the average salary is approximately $30.60 per hour.

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