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Structural Iron and Steel Workers

Also called: Fitter, Iron Worker, Ironworker, Steel Worker

What they do:

Raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. May erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.

On the job, you would:
  • Read specifications or blueprints to determine the locations, quantities, or sizes of materials required.
  • Connect columns, beams, and girders with bolts, following blueprints and instructions from supervisors.
  • Bolt aligned structural steel members in position for permanent riveting, bolting, or welding into place.
On the job, you'll need:

Engineering and Technology

  • building and construction
  • mechanical

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Safety and Government

  • public safety and security

Business

  • management

Basic Skills

  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Hand and Finger Use

  • hold or move items with your hands
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Controlled Movement

  • use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down
  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat

Endurance

  • exercise for a long time without getting out of breath

Physical Strength

  • lift, push, pull, or carry

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Self Control
  • Cooperation
  • Initiative
  • Concern for Others

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Project management software

  • Cost estimating software
  • Project scheduling software

Accounting software

  • Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Average.

New job opportunities are likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $60,500

Education

High school diploma/GED or no high school diploma/GED is usually needed.

Explore More

See other careers in the Construction industry.