How many jobs are available in metal fabrications? If you seek a career in the manufacturing sector, this question may have crossed your mind.
Modern manufacturing depends heavily on the metal fabrication sector, which has existed for millennia.
More than 77,000 individuals are employed in the metal fabrication sector, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Additionally, the industry is expected to add nearly 5,000 new jobs, leading to more career start or switch opportunities.
Based on these numbers, it looks like metal fabrication is a good career choice with many job opportunities and room for growth.
This article will discuss the different types of jobs in the metal fabrication industry, from the most basic to the most specialized.
We will also cover each position’s education and training requirements, average salaries, and the industry’s future.
What Are Metal Fabrications?
Metal fabrications transform raw metal materials into usable products through cutting, bending, and assembling.
This process creates many products, from small mechanical parts to large structures like bridges and buildings. The metal fabrication industry uses steel, aluminum, copper, and brass, among other things, to make these products.
Metalworkers use precise tools and equipment to shape metal into their desired shape. This requires technical skill, creativity, and precision.
Many other industries depend on metal fabrication, making it essential to the manufacturing sector.
How Many Jobs Are Available In Metal Fabrications?
The metal fabrication industry provides a diverse range of job opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that as of May 2020, over 77,000 people worked in this industry in the United States.
These jobs were spread across various roles, including welders, cutters, solderers, bowl makers, machinists, and sheet metal workers.
The industry is projected to grow at a rate of 5% from 2020 to 2023, adding nearly 5 000 new jobs during this period.
This growth is because there is more demand for metal products in many different industries, such as construction, automotive, and other manufacturing.
By 2026, the metal fabrication market will be worth $17.2 billion. This is because there is more demand for metal products that have been fabricated, and production methods have gotten better.
Automation and modern manufacturing technologies like 3D printing and robotics create jobs in computer-aided design and programming.
In addition, there is a demand for skilled workers, as many companies need more qualified applicants to fill open positions.
Jobs In Metal Fabrications?
Metal fabrication is an ideal career path for those looking for a stable, well-paying job with opportunities for growth and advancement. Some popular jobs in the industry include:
Metallurgist
A metallurgist’s job is to study the properties of metals, figure out what they are made of, and make new alloys. The position requires a bachelor’s degree in metallurgy or materials science; the average salary is $83,000 annually.
Fabricator
A fabricator works with metal to create products from blueprints or schematics. The job requires experience using cutting, bending, and shaping tools and the ability to read technical drawings. The average salary for a fabricator is $45,000 per year.
Ironworker
An ironworker builds, installs, and fixes structures made of steel and iron, like buildings, bridges, and towers.
The job requires an apprenticeship, physical strength, and the ability to work at heights. The average salary for an ironworker is $55,000 per year.
Boilermaker
A boilermaker fabricates, installs, and repairs boilers, tanks, and vats of steel or other metals.
The job requires technical training, physical strength, and the ability to use welding and cutting tools. The average salary for a boilermaker is $63,000 per year.
Welder
A welder combines pressure and heat to fuse metal pieces together to form a solid joint. The job requires technical training, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to read technical drawings. The average salary for a welder is $43,000 per year.
Millwright
A millwright installs and maintains industrial machinery, such as conveyor systems and assembly lines.
The job requires mechanical knowledge, technical training, and the ability to use hand and power tools. The average salary for a millwright is $55,000 per year.
Field Installers
Field installers work on-site to install and assemble metal structures, such as fences and gates.
The job requires experience using cutting, bending, and shaping tools and the ability to read technical drawings. The average salary for a field installer is $39,000 per year.
Assemblers
Assemblers work in a factory setting to assemble metal products, such as machinery parts and equipment.
Reading technical drawings and having expertise with both power and hand tools are requirements for the position. An assembler makes $31,000 on average yearly.
The Benefits Of Working In Metal Fabrications?
People who want to work in the manufacturing industry can get a lot out of a job in metal fabrication.
One of the most significant benefits is a decent salary. Metal fabrication jobs pay well, especially for those who have specialized skills and experience.
Metal fabrication also requires many different skills, from technical and mechanical knowledge to creative design and problem-solving. This makes it a fascinating and dynamic work path with prospects for development.
Another good thing about metal fabrication is that it’s satisfying to make genuine, high-quality products used in many fields.
Metal fabricators play a critical role in manufacturing, and they take pride in seeing their work come to life and contributing to the success of their company.
In addition to the above benefits, working in metal fabrication offers a range of other advantages, including the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology, a diverse work environment, and the chance to work on challenging and rewarding projects.
How To Get A Job In Metal Fabrications
To get a job in metal fabrication, one must first acquire the necessary skills and education. You should get a certificate or a degree in welding, metalwork, or a similar field.
Once you have the skills you need, you can look for work in metal fabrication companies, factories, construction companies, and other similar fields.
Searching online job forums and corporate websites for opportunities is often beneficial, as is networking with specialists in the sector.
Conclusion
Metal fabrications is a significant and growing industry that gives skilled workers many job options.
With competitive salaries, job security, and advancement possibilities, it’s no wonder more people are considering it.
Metal fabrications is an exciting and rewarding field, whether you are just starting or seeking to advance your career.
FAQs
1.) What Are The Different Types Of Jobs Available In Metal Fabrications?
There are several job roles in metal fabrication. The top jobs include welders, fabricators, ironworkers, millwrights, boilermakers, assemblers, field installers, and metallurgists.
2.) Is A Degree Or Certification Necessary For A Career In Metal Fabrications?
A degree or certification in welding or metalworking may not be needed for entry-level jobs. Still, it can help you learn and gain experience.
3.) What Are Some Of The Benefits Of Working In Metal Fabrications?
Metal fabrication offers good pay, job security, and room for growth and advancement. It also gives you a chance to learn skills in many different areas and the satisfaction of making tangible products used in many various fields.