What Does a Steel Erector Do?
A Steel Erector, also known as an Ironworker, is an essential figure in the world of Structural Trades. Their primary role is the erection of steel frames and other metal parts for buildings, bridges, and other forms of infrastructure. Picture being a part of a team that's constructing the skeleton of a skyscraper - that's what being a Steel Erector is all about!
As a Steel Erector, you would spend most of your time at on-site construction locations. These might be high above ground level, so a good head for heights and a strong sense of balance is essential. You would need to be comfortable working in all kinds of weather, and capable of following strict safety protocols to protect yourself and your team.
Your main tasks would often include interpreting blueprints, assembling and installing steel parts, and ensuring the structures are precisely aligned. You might also be cutting, bending, or shaping steel pieces, or even bolting them together. For each project, your construction knowledge and your physical strength will both be put to the test.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Structural Steel Erection
- Welding and Soldering
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Regulation Understanding
- Use of Power and Hand Tools
- Use of Falling Protection Equipment
- Heavy Equipment Operation
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Communication Skills
- Reliability
- Physical Strength and Stamina
- Attention to Detail
Technical Skills
- Structural Steel Erection
- Welding and Soldering
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Regulation Understanding
- Use of Power and Hand Tools
- Use of Falling Protection Equipment
- Heavy Equipment Operation
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Communication Skills
- Reliability
- Physical Strength and Stamina
- Attention to Detail
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Complete high school education with a focus on Mathematics, Physics, and Technical Drawing classes or obtain a GED equivalent. High school or vocational school welding classes are useful.
- Physical Fitness Training: Steel erectors require good physical stamina, balance, and agility. Engaging in regular physical fitness activities can help develop these qualities.
- On-the-Job Training: Typically, a steel erector will start in a helper position under the guidance of an experienced erector to gain on-the-job experience.
- Apprenticeship: Complete a 2-to-4 year apprenticeship under a trained and experienced erector. Apprenticeships often consist of both classroom training and on-the-job practice.
- Certification: Acquire certification such as the Certified Steel Erector certification from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) or relevant welding certifications. Certification often requires passing written and performance exams.
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Complete high school education with a focus on Mathematics, Physics, and Technical Drawing classes or obtain a GED equivalent. High school or vocational school welding classes are useful.
- Physical Fitness Training: Steel erectors require good physical stamina, balance, and agility. Engaging in regular physical fitness activities can help develop these qualities.
- On-the-Job Training: Typically, a steel erector will start in a helper position under the guidance of an experienced erector to gain on-the-job experience.
- Apprenticeship: Complete a 2-to-4 year apprenticeship under a trained and experienced erector. Apprenticeships often consist of both classroom training and on-the-job practice.
- Certification: Acquire certification such as the Certified Steel Erector certification from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) or relevant welding certifications. Certification often requires passing written and performance exams.
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in most states