Explore
HVAC ductwork & architectural
Sheet Metal Worker
Fabricating in the shop, installing in the ceiling.
Typical pay
$50k-$100k
How you get in
4-5 year paid apprenticeship
Outlook
Steady; tied to commercial construction and HVAC demand
Sheet metal workers fabricate and install ductwork, roofing and architectural metal. Shop work is layout and fabrication; field work is installation overhead in ceilings and mechanical rooms.
A day in the life
- 6:00aReview shop drawings and cut lists
- 6:30aFabricate duct sections on the brake and shear
- 9:30aLoad the truck and head to the job site
- 11:00aHang duct overhead — most of the day is above your head
- 12:30pLunch
- 1:00pSeal joints, install dampers, test fit the run
How to get in
Union apprenticeship (SMART)
Duration
4-5 years
Cost
$0 — paid while you train
Credential
Journeyman sheet metal worker
- Apply to a SMART local when applications open
- Pass the aptitude test and interview
- Work full time while attending classes in layout, fabrication and welding
- Finish with a journeyman card, pension and portable benefits
Non-union shop
Duration
2-4 years
Cost
$0
Credential
None; OSHA and welding certifications help
- Get hired as a shop helper at a fabrication or HVAC contractor
- Learn layout, the brake, the shear and pattern development
- Add welding certifications
- Move between shop and field work as you build skill
Specialize in architectural or testing
Duration
2-5 years after journeyman
Cost
$1,000-$8,000
Credential
Journeyman plus TAB or architectural certifications
- Master standard ductwork and fabrication first
- Move into architectural metal, or into testing, adjusting and balancing
- TAB technicians command a significant premium
- Both niches are far less physically punishing than duct installation
What people love
- · Strong union pay and pension
- · Paid apprenticeship with no debt
- · Indoor shop and field work both available
- · Architectural metal is genuine craft work
What wears people down
- · Constant overhead work strains shoulders and neck
- · Sharp edges — cuts are routine
- · Field work means unconditioned buildings
- · Construction cycles drive layoffs