Sheet metal workers lay out, fabricate, assemble, weld, install and service a variety of projects such as HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), industrial, kitchen and hospital equipment, and architectural work. A Sheet metal worker requires highly specialized and up-to-date skills to accomplish the various tasks involved in the trade.

Responsibilities

  • Lay out, measure and mark sheet metal according to drawings or templates
  • Develop computerized patterns and layouts
  • Cut materials by hand or with power tools
  • Operate light metalworking machines (shears, brakes, punches, drill presses, CNC) to cut, bend, punch, drill, shape or straighten sheet metal
  • Operate computerized laser or plasma cutting equipment to cut sheet metal
  • Fit and join sheet metal parts using riveting, welding, soldering and similar equipment
  • Grind and buff seams, joints and rough surfaces
  • Install sheet metal products according to specifications and building codes
  • Inspect products to ensure quality and conformity to specification

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

  • English 10
  • Math 11 (Principles)
  • High School diploma or GED recommended

To Apply:
Visit the smwtcs.ca website and click APPLY to
complete online application. Submit resume
and transcripts for review. A skill assessment
will be scheduled prior to assignment to
technical training.

Apprenticeship Program:
Approximately 4 years, applicants must write an evaluation exam; the majority of applicants serve a pre-apprenticeship of up to 1,600 hours. Registered apprentices are indentured to the local training board. Indentured apprentices attend four levels of 8-week technical training sessions at the Sheet metal workers’ Training Centre or at Camosun College on Vancouver Island and complete 6,400 hours in the industry.

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Strong communication skills, reading & numeracy
  • Computer & problemsolving skills
  • Mechanical aptitude & curiosity about how things work
  • Physically fit & ability to lift and climb
  • Ability to work at heights

Trade Card Info Sheets

Start Building Your Skills

Do you have the foundational skills to succeed in the construction building trades? Sign up/sign in for FREE learning resources, tutorials and more to get started and through a career in construction.

Sign Up

Hourly Pay

$42 – $50/hr

8100+

PROJECTED CONSTRUCTION WORKER RETIREMENTS BY 2029*

Contact the local union for more information on
hourly pay, benefits, pension and more.

*BuildForce Canada

You like working with your hands and machinery.

You are creative and have an eye for detail.

You can visualize a finished product from a drawing.

Did You Know?

Sheet metal workers make all kinds of products using many types of metal, including galvanized steel, copper, brass, nickel, stainless steel and aluminum.