Occupation Details
Sheet Metal Workers
Fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings. Work may involve any of the following: setting up and operating fabricating machines to cut, bend, and straighten sheet metal; shaping metal over anvils, blocks, or forms using hammer; operating soldering and welding equipment to join sheet metal parts; or inspecting, assembling, and smoothing seams and joints of burred surfaces. Includes sheet metal duct installers who install prefabricated sheet metal ducts used for heating, air conditioning, or other purposes.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Work Values
Relationships
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Independence
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$39,820.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$63,900.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$87,820.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
6,800
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
8,240
+144 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
835
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.2%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Some Training - Certificate or hands-on training
Experience Requirements
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education Requirements
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Earn While You Learn: Discover hands-on training opportunities that combine paid work experience with classroom instruction for this career path.
AT Sheet Metal Workers Local # 71
Buffalo, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #71, will conduct a recruitment from January 27, 2025 through January 26, 2026 through for 10 Sheet Metal Worker apprentices. Please note that the 10 openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for two recruitment regions - the Finger Lakes and Western regions of the state. Applications must be completed online at: https://www.smartlocal71.com/apprenticeship-application. Applicants without the ability to complete the online application can go to Local Union #71, 24 Liberty Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215 to be provided with a device to complete the application online, during the recruitment period. For additional information, please contact the office at (716) 835-8836 or e-mail info@smartlocal71.com.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Proof will be required after acceptance into the program. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as GED or TASC). This must include one full year of high school algebra with a passing grade, or one post high school algebra course with a passing grade. Transcripts will be required upon acceptance into the program. Must be physically able to perform the work of a Sheet Metal Worker as determined by a physical examination and/or a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must sign an attestation that he/she is physically capable of performing the work of the Sheet Metal Worker, which may include: Climbing and working from ladders, scaffolds, poles, or towers of various heights. Crawling and working in confined spaces. Lifting and carrying tools and materials weighing 50 -75 pounds. Must be able to hear and understand verbal instructions and warnings given in English. Must have a valid drivers license (apprentices can be expected to drive company vehicles). Must have reliable transportation to and from required classes at the approved school as well as job sites anywhere within the geographical jurisdiction of Local Union #71. This includes Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties. Must reside within the jurisdiction of Local Union #71, which includes Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, for at least one year prior to the application date. Proof of residency will be required upon acceptance into the program. Must participate in an interview, if selected. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact the Sheetmetal Workers JAC Local Union #71 at (716) 835-8836. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Buffalo, NY 14215
AT Sheet Metal Workers Local #58
Syracuse, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #58, will conduct a recruitment from August 1, 2025 through July 31, 2026 for five Sheet Metal Worker apprentices. Please note the five openings listed for Sheet Metal Worker apprentices represent the total number for four recruitment regions - the Central, Mohawk Valley, North Country, and Southern Tier regions of the state. Applications are available and can be completed online at smw58.org. If a computer is not available, applicants can visit their local library or local New York State Department of Labor Career Center., if currently open for business. All applications must be received no later than July 31, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED), including at least one year of Algebra, Math I, or high school Regents Math. Must attest in writing that they are physically able to perform the work of a Sheet Metal Worker, which may include: Working from ladders and heights. Lifting heavy materials (up to 75 pounds). Standing for long periods of time. Working in confined spaces. Working outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions. Possible exposure to loud noises. Wearing respirators, hard hats, and safety glasses, as required.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #58 at (315) 472-4411. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center. From tinsmiths to high tech specialists, Sheet Metal Workers have plied their skills long before our founding members organized this union on January 25, 1888 in Toledo, Ohio. We have established and improved our reputation for skilled work that benefits society in the places where people work, live, play and pray. We reach for new avenues in our constant pursuit for a better quality of life for all working persons.Sheet Metal Workers Do: Architectural Blowpipe Clean Rooms Decking/Siding Dust Collectors Energy Systems HVAC Kitchen Equip Metal Products Paint Booths Railroad Cars Service Tech Ships Signs Skylights Stainless Steel plus thousands of other sheet metal products!Our mission ...... "...To establish and maintain desirable working conditions and thus provide for themselves and their families that measure of comfort, happiness, and security to which every citizen is entitled in return for his labor, from a deep sense of pride in our trade, to give a fair day's work for a fair day's pay."
Program Dates
Contact Information
Syracuse, NY 13204
AT JATC for Area Sheet Metal Workers, LU #112
Elmira, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for Area Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #112, will conduct a recruitment from August 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025 for 10 Sheet Metal Worker apprentices. Please note that the 10 openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for two recruitment regions the Southern Tier and Western regions of the state.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Must sign an affidavit indicating that they are physically able to perform the work of a Sheet Metal Worker, which may include: Working with sharp objects, hazardous machinery, and possible exposure to loud noises and respiratory irritants. Standing, sitting and walking for prolonged periods of time. Squatting and bending repeatedly. Working in severe weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Working in confined spaces. Lifting and/or moving heavy objects and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds. Working off ladders and scaffolds at heights that may exceed 50 feet. Must have a valid NYS drivers license. Apprentices may be required to drive company vehicles. Must have reliable transportation to and from various work sites and required classes at the approved school. Must pass a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must provide own hand tools as per JATC LU 112 apprentices tool list-not to exceed $750.00. Must have manual dexterity and multi-limb coordination with the ability to move and coordinate two or more limbs (arms and legs) to grasp, manipulate, and/or assemble objects in a timely fashion. Must be able to read, hear, speak and understand verbal instructions and warnings given in English. Must have Visual Color Discrimination in order to match or detect between colors, including shades of color and brightness. Must be able to read, write and understand English. Must be bondable. Must attend 50% of all local union meetings during each school year (September thru August).
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at JATC for Area Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #112, 1200 Clemens Center Parkway, Elmira, NY 14902 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications can also be downloaded and printed from the JATCs website: www.smw112.org. All completed applications can be delivered in person to: 1200 Clemens Center Parkway, Elmira, NY, or mailed to: P.O. Box 1146, Elmira, NY 14902. All applications must be postmarked no later than December 31, 2025.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact JATC for Area Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #112 at (607) 733-3732. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Elmira, NY 14901
AT Sheet Metal Workers Local # 46
Rochester, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for Sheet Metal Workers of Rochester, Local Union #46, will conduct a recruitment from April 8, 2025 through April 7, 2026 for 10 Sheet Metal Worker apprentices and 10 Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Mechanic apprentices. Applications are available online, during the recruitment period, at www.SMW46.com. Please contact JATC Coordinator Tim Ventress at (585) 647-3200 with any technical questions. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED), with one year of algebra with a passing grade in Math Course I or Math Course II; or a minimum of 55 on the TASC or GED math test. Must sign an affidavit attesting they are physically able to perform the work of the trade. Work in the Sheet Metal Industry may be physical and strenuous. It includes: Climbing ladders, scaffolds and roofs. Working at great heights. Lifting materials in excess of 70 lbs. Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions. Must take and pass a drug test upon offer of employment. May be subject to additional drug testing at any time during the apprenticeship program. Drug testing is paid for by the sponsor. Must have a valid NYS drivers license in order to operate company vehicles. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be a resident, for at least one year, within the jurisdiction of Sheet Metal Workers of Rochester, Local Union #46, which includes the counties of Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Sheet Metal Workers of Rochester, Local Union #46 at (585) 254-9151. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Rochester, NY 14624
AT Capital District Sheet Metal Workers Local Union #83
Albany, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) for Capital District Sheet Metal Workers, Local Union #83, will conduct a recruitment from March 3, 2025 through March 2, 2026 for 10-15 Sheet Metal Worker apprentices
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). This must include a passing grade in Algebra, a passing grade in Math I, or a passing grade in the math portion of the GED equivalent in the year in which the test was taken or a minimum of 500 on the TASC math test. Proof will be required after selection and prior to an interview. Must sign an affidavit stating they are physically able to perform the work of a Sheet Metal Worker, which includes: Working with sharp objects, hazardous machinery, and possible exposure to noise and respiratory irritants. Prolonged standing and walking. Repeated squatting and/or bending. Working in severe weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Working in restrictive or confined spaces. Lifting and/or moving heavy objects and equipment. Working off of ladders and scaffolds at various heights. Must have a valid New York State drivers license in order to operate company vehicles. Must reside in Local 83 jurisdiction: Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington. Must have reliable transportation to and from work and required classes at the approved school. Must submit to and pass a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, if selected for the program. Must submit to the background check, at the sponsors expense, if selected for the program. Must take the Criteria Corp-Criteria Basic Skills Test (CBST) and Criteria Cognitive Aptitude Test (CCAT) tests. Applicant must score at least 6 out of a combined 15 available points on combined CBST and CCAT to be considered for the program.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained from Capital District Sheet Metal Workers Local Union #83, 900 Commerce Drive, Clifton Park, NY 12065 from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Mondays, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications may also be obtained online at: www.smartlu83.org, during the recruitment period.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Local Union # 83 at (518) 489-1377. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Albany, NY 12208
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Innovation
Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- AC/DC welding power units
- Acoustic ear muffs or defenders
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Adjustable wrenches
- Allen wrenches
- Ammeters
- Angle grinders
- Aviation snips
- Ball peen hammers
- Bandsaws
- Bar folders
- Beading machines
- Beam compasses
- Bolt cutters
- Box and pan brakes
- Bumping hammers
- Burring machines
- C clamps
- Calibrated flow hoods
- Calipers
- Carbon dioxide CO2 monitors
- Caulking guns
- Center punches
- Chain hoists
- Chalk lines
- Circular saws
- Clamp-on ammeters
- Cleat formers
- Cold chisels
- Cold-cut saws
Technology
- Applied Production ProFab
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- FCC Software AutoPOL Series
- Merry Mechanization SMP/IS
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- Siemens NX
- Spreadsheet software
- WiCAM PN4000
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- set up production equipment or machinery
- position, align, or level machines, equipment, or structures
- determine material or tool requirements
- use combination welding procedures
- adhere to safety procedures
- perform safety inspections in construction or resource extraction setting
- perform safety inspections in industrial, manufacturing or repair setting
- identify properties of metals for repair or fabrication activities
- understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
- recognize characteristics of metals
- identify base metals for welding
- recognize characteristics of alloys
- lay out machining, welding or precision assembly projects
- make independent judgment in assembly procedures
- determine project methods and procedures
- fabricate ducting
- fabricate sheet metal parts or items
- use precision measuring tools or equipment
- operate metal or plastic fabricating equipment/machinery
- operate sheet metal fabrication machines
- use hand or power tools
- set up and operate variety of machine tools
- use measuring devices in construction or extraction work
- use acetylene welding/cutting torch
- weld together metal parts, components, or structures
- solder metal parts or components together
- use soldering equipment
- use arc welding equipment
- use machine tools in installation, maintenance, or repair
- examine products or work to verify conformance to specifications
- climb ladders, scaffolding, or utility or telephone poles
- build or repair structures in construction, repair, or manufacturing setting
- erect scaffold
- move or fit heavy objects
- repair sheet metal products
- install sheet metal assemblies in supportive framework
- file, sand, grind, or polish metal or plastic objects
- cut metal or plastic
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
- stretch, bend, straighten, shape, pound, or press metal or plastic
- read blueprints
- read production layouts
- read technical drawings
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Convert blueprints into shop drawings to be followed in the construction or assembly of sheet metal products.
- Determine project requirements, such as scope, assembly sequences, or required methods or materials, using blueprints, drawings, or written or verbal instructions.
- Lay out, measure, and mark dimensions and reference lines on material, such as roofing panels, using calculators, scribes, dividers, squares, or rulers.
- Fasten seams or joints together with welds, bolts, cement, rivets, solder, caulks, metal drive clips, or bonds to assemble components into products or to repair sheet metal items.
- Develop or lay out patterns, using computerized metalworking equipment.
- Trim, file, grind, deburr, buff, or smooth surfaces, seams, or joints of assembled parts, using hand tools or portable power tools.
- Fabricate ducts for high efficiency heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to maximize efficiency of systems.
- Select gauges or types of sheet metal or nonmetallic material, according to product specifications.
- Maneuver completed roofing units into position for installation.
- Finish parts, using hacksaws or hand, rotary, or squaring shears.
- Shape metal material over anvils, blocks, or other forms, using hand tools.
- Fabricate or alter parts at construction sites, using shears, hammers, punches, or drills.
- Inspect individual parts, assemblies, or installations, using measuring instruments, such as calipers, scales, or micrometers.
- Transport prefabricated parts to construction sites for assembly and installation.
- Verify that heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are designed, installed, and calibrated in accordance with green certification standards, such as those of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).
- Install assemblies, such as flashing, pipes, tubes, heating and air conditioning ducts, furnace casings, rain gutters, or downspouts in supportive frameworks.
- Hire, train, or supervise new employees or apprentices.
- Maintain equipment, making repairs or modifications when necessary.
- Secure metal roof panels in place by interlocking and fastening grooved panel edges.
- Perform building commissioning activities by completing mechanical inspections of a building's water, lighting, or heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
- Fasten roof panel edges or machine-made moldings to structures by nailing or welding.
- Perform sheet metal work necessary for solar panel installations.
- Install green architectural sheet metal components, such as cool roofs or hot or cold walls.
- Construct components for high-performance wind turbine systems.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Sheet metal workers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
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