Sheet Metal Worker

Ever noticed the ducts, vents, and metal fixtures that keep buildings running smoothly? Sheet metal workers design, fabricate, and install those components with precision. Sheet metal workers work with thin metal sheets to create parts for HVAC systems, roofing, industrial machinery, and architectural projects. If you like working with your hands, using machines, and creating functional parts from raw materials, this trade offers steady and rewarding work. Quick answers What does a sheet metal worker do? Sheet metal workers cut, shape, and install thin metal sheets into products used in construction, manufacturing, and mechanical systems. What kinds of projects do they work on? Sheet metal workers create parts for HVAC systems, roofing, industrial machinery, and architectural projects. Where do sheet metal workers work? Common settings include HVAC fabrication and installation, building construction and roofing, industrial workshops, and custom fabrication shops. Is trade school required? Not always. Some people complete a trade or technical program, but many learn through apprenticeships or supervised on-the-job training. What training paths are common? This page covers technical or trade school, on-the-job training, and apprenticeships as the main ways to enter the trade. At a glance Work involves cutting, shaping, and installing thin sheet metal components.Typical tasks include blueprint reading, measuring, machine operation, assembly, and inspection.Common work is tied to HVAC duct systems, roofing, and custom fabrication.Training often comes from a trade program, on-the-job learning, or an apprenticeship. What Sheet Metal Workers Do Sheet metal workers cut, shape, and install thin metal sheets into products used in construction, manufacturing, and mechanical systems. Typical Tasks Read blueprints and technical drawings to determine project requirementsMeasure and mark sheet metal for cutting and bendingOperate machinery such as brakes, shears, and rollersAssemble, weld, and install finished componentsInspect completed work for accuracy and quality Key Skills and Traits for Success Strong mechanical and mathematical aptitudePrecision and attention to detailAbility to read and follow technical drawingsComfort using tools and machineryPhysical stamina and safety awareness Work Settings for Sheet Metal Workers Sheet metal workers can be found in a variety of industries including: HVAC system fabrication and installationBuilding construction and roofing projectsIndustrial manufacturing plants and workshopsCustom metal fabrication and design shopsOn-site installation and maintenance of duct systems How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker (5 Steps) Here’s a clear path to enter this skilled trade. Earn a High School Diploma or Equivalent Focus on math, drafting, and shop courses to prepare for technical training and blueprint reading. Complete a Trade or Technical Program (Optional) Some technical schools offer programs in sheet metal fabrication or HVAC systems that teach the basics of cutting, forming, and assembly. Start an Apprenticeship or On-the-Job Training Most sheet metal workers learn through a multi-year apprenticeship or supervised training on active job sites. Obtain Certifications or Safety Training Safety credentials such as OSHA or welding certifications can improve your skills and advancement potential. Build Experience and Advance With experience, sheet metal workers can advance to supervisory positions, specialize in design or welding, or open their own fabrication business. Compare training programs near you Browse program lengths, formats, and start dates from accredited schools that match your goals. See programs near you ↑ Education and Training Paths Pathway Typical Duration Outcome Technical or Trade School 6-12 months Foundational training in metalwork, fabrication, and safety On-the-Job Training 1-3 years Hands-on learning under experienced workers Apprenticeship 3-5 years Structured program combining work experience with classroom instruction In this context, an apprenticeship is a structured program that combines work experience with classroom instruction. Career Growth and Advancement Projected job growth for sheet metal workers Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com With time and experience, sheet metal workers can move into: Foreman or project supervisor rolesHVAC or architectural metal specializationWelding or fabrication inspectionShop management or independent contracting Pros and Cons ✅ Pros Hands-on trade with creative and technical varietyApplies to multiple industries from HVAC to constructionOpportunities to specialize in design or fabrication ⚠️ Cons Physically demanding work that may involve noise and heatPrecision and attention to safety are criticalSome projects require long hours or tight deadlines Quick Facts: Sheet Metal Worker Training and Outlook Median Pay $61,800 $29.71/hr Top 10%: $105,650 Job Outlook (2024-2034) 2.4% 10,600 openings/yr Employment (2025) 119,770 Wage Percentiles 25th $47,830 75th $81,610 Typical Education High school diploma or equivalent On-the-Job Training Apprenticeship or long-term on-the-job training Highest Paying States WashingtonHawaiiAlaska Top Industries Cross-industry Certification Optional safety or specialty certifications 2025 data | SOC 47-2211 | Source: BLS OEWS What sheet metal workers earn across the pay scale Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Industry Organizations & Certifying Bodies These are the recognized national organizations, unions, certifying bodies, and regulatory authorities that shape this trade. They issue the credentials, sponsor the apprenticeships, publish the codes, and represent workers and employers. International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART) Primary sheet metal workers union.Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA) Sheet metal contractor association; publishes industry standards.International Training Institute (ITI) Joint SMART/SMACNA training organization for sheet metal apprenticeships. Federal Prevailing Wages by State The U.S. Department of Labor sets Davis-Bacon prevailing wages that contractors must pay on federally funded construction projects. These are minimum hourly rates, not averages - actual market pay can be higher. Across 47 states with active 2026 determinations, the average total compensation (base + fringe) for sheet metals is $57.36/hour. New Jersey pays the highest rate ($106.14/hr total), while South Carolina reports the lowest active determination ($16.00/hr total). Davis-Bacon prevailing wage rates for sheet metals by state, 2026. State Base Hourly Fringe Hourly Total Hourly Annualized* New Jersey $59.08 $47.06 $106.14 $220,771 Nevada $69.73 $30.85 $100.58 $209,206 Connecticut $50.60 $45.61 $96.21 $200,117 Oregon $54.99 $33.92 $88.91 $184,933 Wisconsin $58.03 $29.98 $88.01 $183,061 Rhode Island $44.42 $41.94 $86.36 $179,629 Hawaii $50.16 $33.32 $83.48 $173,638 Alaska $52.08 $30.81 $82.89 $172,411 Massachusetts $42.80 $38.17 $80.97 $168,418 Michigan $42.51 $35.77 $78.28 $162,822 District of Columbia $53.42 $23.20 $76.62 $159,370 Indiana $44.45 $30.43 $74.88 $155,750 Minnesota $44.48 $29.77 $74.25 $154,440 Delaware $33.63 $40.60 $74.23 $154,398 New York $43.01 $28.66 $71.67 $149,074 Pennsylvania $39.50 $30.79 $70.29 $146,203 Ohio $37.66 $32.23 $69.89 $145,371 Illinois $38.54 $30.37 $68.91 $143,333 Colorado $43.05 $22.65 $65.70 $136,656 Iowa $39.38 $24.95 $64.33 $133,806 Montana $40.00 $22.07 $62.07 $129,106 Utah $46.79 $14.89 $61.68 $128,294 Idaho $39.00 $22.42 $61.42 $127,754 Kentucky $33.53 $26.71 $60.24 $125,299 Nebraska $39.65 $19.87 $59.52 $123,802 Missouri $36.51 $22.39 $58.90 $122,512 Vermont $36.75 $18.63 $55.38 $115,190 Tennessee $37.70 $17.40 $55.10 $114,608 Alabama $30.50 $20.49 $50.99 $106,059 New Hampshire $26.56 $24.03 $50.59 $105,227 Oklahoma $33.38 $16.36 $49.74 $103,459 California $38.65 $10.31 $48.96 $101,837 Florida $31.64 $15.98 $47.62 $99,050 West Virginia $25.61 $15.68 $41.29 $85,883 Louisiana $25.16 $10.11 $35.27 $73,362 Mississippi $21.86 $11.18 $33.04 $68,723 North Carolina $19.67 $13.27 $32.94 $68,515 New Mexico $22.01 $9.65 $31.66 $65,853 South Dakota $20.41 $9.64 $30.05 $62,504 Kansas $23.18 $5.83 $29.01 $60,341 North Dakota $24.14 $0.00 $24.14 $50,211 Arizona $18.68 $4.91 $23.59 $49,067 Virginia $16.88 $2.30 $19.18 $39,894 Georgia $18.91 $0.00 $18.91 $39,333 Maine $16.97 $1.92 $18.89 $39,291 Texas $17.00 $0.00 $17.00 $35,360 South Carolina $16.00 $0.00 $16.00 $33,280 Annualized total = total hourly × 2,080 hours (40-hour week, 52 weeks). Actual annual pay varies with overtime, project length, and benefits utilization. Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division - Davis-Bacon General Wage Determinations, 2026. Rates reflect the lowest base rate within each statewide determination for sheet metal classifications. Wage and Employment Charts Annual Wage by Percentile, United States - Sheet Metal Workers Sheet Metal Workers annual wage percentiles, BLS OEWS May 2025 P10 $38630, P25 $47830, P50 $61800, P75 $81610, P90 $105650. 10th $38,630 25th $47,830 50th (median) $61,800 75th $81,610 90th $105,650 Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 Sheet Metal Workers annual wage percentiles Percentile Annual wage 10th $38,630 25th $47,830 50th (median) $61,800 75th $81,610 90th $105,650 Top-paying states for sheet metal workers Use this chart on your site (free) This chart is free to republish. Copy the code below; it credits TradeCareerPath.com with a link back to this page. Chart by TradeCareerPath.com Projected employment growth, United States, Sheet Metal Workers, 2024-2034 Sheet Metal Workers employment 2024 vs 2034 projection, BLS Employment Projections 2024 employment 127000; 2034 projected employment 130100; percent change +2.4%. 2024 127,000 jobs 2034 (proj.) 130,100 jobs Change: +2.4% Source: BLS Employment Projections, 2024-2034 Sheet Metal Workers employment projection 2024 to 2034 Year Employment 2024 127,000 2034 projected 130,100 Percent change +2.4% Compare training programs near you Browse program lengths, formats, and start dates from accredited schools that match your goals. See schools near you ↑ Workplace Safety Snapshot BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses data (2023-2024) report approximately 236.0 days-away, restricted, or transfer cases per 10,000 full-time-equivalent workers in sheet metal workers (about 2.36 per 100 FTE). Source: BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, Table R98. Frequently Asked Questions How long does sheet metal worker training take? It typically takes typically 6 months to 2 years of training. The most common entry path is through a certificate or associate degree program. A high school diploma or GED is generally required to get started. How much do sheet metal workers make? The median annual salary for sheet metal workers is $61,800 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025). Entry-level workers earn around $38,630, while those in the 90th percentile earn over $105,650. Pay varies by state, experience, and specialization. What is the job outlook for sheet metal workers? The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 2.4% employment growth for this occupation from 2024 to 2034, which is roughly on pace with the overall economy. Approximately 10,600 job openings are expected each year due to growth, retirements, and workers leaving the field. Do you need a college degree to work as a sheet metal worker? No. A college degree is not required to work as a sheet metal worker. Most people enter the field through a certificate or associate degree program. A high school diploma or GED is typically the only educational prerequisite. Which states pay sheet metal workers the most? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 OEWS), the highest-paying states for sheet metal workers are Washington, Hawaii, and Alaska. Median annual wages: Washington ($98,550); Hawaii ($96,350); Alaska ($94,600). Which states employ the most sheet metal workers? BLS reports the largest concentrations of sheet metal workers in Texas, California, and Florida. Employment levels: Texas (9,540 workers); California (8,390 workers); Florida (8,040 workers) (May 2025). How much do experienced sheet metal workers earn? The top 10% of sheet metal workers earn more than $105,650 per year, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Experienced workers in this band typically hold senior credentials, supervisory roles, or specialty certifications. What is entry-level pay for sheet metal workers? BLS reports the bottom 10% of sheet metal workers earn under $38,630 per year. New workers often start near this level and see pay rise as they accumulate experience and credentials. How many sheet metal workers work in the United States? BLS reports approximately 119,770 sheet metal workers employed nationwide as of May 2025. How many job openings are expected for sheet metal workers each year? BLS projects approximately 10,600 openings per year for sheet metal workers from 2024 through 2034, including new positions, retirements, and workers transitioning out. The occupation is projected to grow 2.4% from 2024 to 2034, classified as about as fast as average growth. How much do sheet metal workers make per hour? The median hourly wage for sheet metal workers is $29.71, according to BLS (May 2025). Hourly pay ranges from about $18.57 (bottom 10%) to $50.79 (top 10%). How Sheet Metal Worker Pay Compares to Similar Trades Side-by-side comparison of Sheet Metal Worker and the closest related careers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2025 OEWS + 2024-2034 Employment Projections). Career Median Pay 10-Year Growth Annual Openings Sheet Metal Worker this guide $61,800 +2.4% 10,600 HVAC Technician $61,010 +8.1% 40,100 Welding $53,750 +2.2% 45,600 Ironworker $62,780 +4.4% 5,500 Roofer $55,440 +5.9% 12,700 Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics + BLS Employment Projections. Related Careers HVAC TechnicianWeldingIronworkerRoofer Sources U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025)U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections 2024-2034U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (2023-2024, Table R98)U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, Davis-Bacon General Wage Determinations (2026) Sheet Metal Worker Salary by State BLS OEWS, May 2025 Filter states State Median annual Top 10% annual Washington $98,550 $149,260 California $76,590 $132,190 New Jersey $92,840 $130,630 Pennsylvania $61,400 $126,430 New York $73,760 $126,090 Nevada $46,730 $121,730 Massachusetts $82,100 $121,050 Oregon $73,750 $120,600 Hawaii $96,350 $118,960 Illinois $86,630 $117,910 Minnesota $72,970 $116,990 Alaska $94,600 $116,580 Missouri $63,560 $110,580 Kansas $62,670 $108,530 Wisconsin $77,760 $107,060 Indiana $64,040 $104,080 Michigan $64,490 $96,390 Nebraska $64,440 $94,980 Ohio $74,790 $94,240 Connecticut $78,750 $93,940 Iowa $66,460 $91,450 South Dakota $47,800 $86,780 Delaware $61,460 $85,790 Utah $63,140 $85,770 Kentucky $60,680 $85,310 North Dakota $65,180 $84,740 New Mexico $56,720 $84,690 Maryland $62,560 $84,650 Montana $61,420 $84,220 Colorado $57,880 $83,550 Vermont $58,250 $82,940 Rhode Island $65,100 $81,980 Arizona $50,260 $80,750 New Hampshire $59,800 $79,930 Tennessee $59,170 $79,360 Oklahoma $65,640 $79,090 Idaho $46,350 $78,470 Texas $54,240 $78,400 North Carolina $50,730 $78,020 Louisiana $50,320 $77,790 Georgia $56,800 $76,900 South Carolina $49,920 $76,300 West Virginia $72,390 $76,020 Maine $62,120 $75,490 Virginia $52,220 $73,640 Wyoming $58,740 $72,400 Florida $49,640 $71,740 Alabama $47,530 $71,270 Mississippi $49,500 $70,630 Arkansas $45,820 $57,380 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.