How to Become a Fence Installer

Quick Facts

  • Average Salary: $39,820/year
  • Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Required Experience: Entry-level through apprenticeship
  • Licensing: Required in some states
  • Job Outlook: 3% growth (2020-2030)

What Does a Fence Installer Do?

A Fence Installer is a skilled craftsman who specializes in the construction and installation of various types of fences and gates. This can include wooden fences, metal fences, and even automated gate systems. Working in various environments such as homes, businesses, and public properties, it's a job that combines practical outdoor work with the satisfaction of creating secure and attractive spaces.

As a Fence Installer, you'll work mainly outdoors, regardless of weather conditions. Each day, you'll need to understand blueprints, measure and mark out site locations based on these plans, dig postholes, and then erect the fence. You'll also check each installation to ensure it's level, secure, and meets any regulatory requirements. Other duties can include repairing and maintaining existing fencing.

This job requires a good level of physical fitness, as it involves considerable manual labor, and attention to detail. In addition, creativity is also a plus when creating custom fence designs.

Skills Required

Technical Skills

  • Fence Installation
  • Blueprint Reading
  • Equipment Operation
  • Site Preparation
  • Measurement and Calculation
  • Safety Protocol Knowledge

Soft Skills

  • Physical Stamina
  • Teamwork
  • Problem Solving
  • Attention to Detail
  • Communication

Education and Training Requirements

Required Education

Licensing and Certification

State Requirements

Required in some states

Salary and Job Outlook

How to Get Started