What Does a Structural Steel Fabricator Do?
A Structural Steel Fabricator is an essential worker in the construction industry whose primary task is to create the structures and frameworks that give buildings and bridges their strength and shape. This trade job requires a good understanding of blueprints and plans, as you'll be cutting, bending, and assembling iron or steel girders and columns to form these structures.
Fabricators typically work in workshops or large manufacturing installations, where they can safely manage the sizable materials with heavy-duty tools and machinery. The role is primarily hands-on and can be physically demanding, but provides a great sense of accomplishment when you see your work come to life in large scale projects.
Your main responsibilities would likely include measuring and marking out cutting lines on materials, using hand tools as well as heavy equipment to cut and bend pieces, and using welding equipment to securely join pieces together. Safety is a critical aspect of this job, as you'll be handling potentially hazardous tools and materials. Therefore, compliance with safety regulations will be a constant aspect of the role.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Blueprint Reading
- Welding
- Cutting and Joining Metal
- Understanding of Structural Design
- Use of Power Tools
- Safety Protocols Knowledge
Soft Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Physical Stamina and Strength
- Teamwork
Technical Skills
- Blueprint Reading
- Welding
- Cutting and Joining Metal
- Understanding of Structural Design
- Use of Power Tools
- Safety Protocols Knowledge
Soft Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Physical Stamina and Strength
- Teamwork
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma: Complete high school, makes sure to focus on math, technology, and mechanical drawing
- Post-Secondary Vocational Training: Optional, but beneficial. Possible subjects include industrial technology, industrial mechanics, or welding
- Welder Certification: Certification from an accredited institution, demonstrating competence in various welding techniques
- Structural Steel Fabricator Apprentice Program: 3-4 year on-the-job training program authorized by state or national agencies, it combines job-related practical experience with formal technical instruction
- Journeyman Status: After completing the apprenticeship and passing examinations, an apprentice can advance to journeyman status
- Continued Professional Development: Periodic workshops and training sessions to stay up-to-date with the latest industry developments and advancements
- High School Diploma: Complete high school, makes sure to focus on math, technology, and mechanical drawing
- Post-Secondary Vocational Training: Optional, but beneficial. Possible subjects include industrial technology, industrial mechanics, or welding
- Welder Certification: Certification from an accredited institution, demonstrating competence in various welding techniques
- Structural Steel Fabricator Apprentice Program: 3-4 year on-the-job training program authorized by state or national agencies, it combines job-related practical experience with formal technical instruction
- Journeyman Status: After completing the apprenticeship and passing examinations, an apprentice can advance to journeyman status
- Continued Professional Development: Periodic workshops and training sessions to stay up-to-date with the latest industry developments and advancements
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in most states