Steel erectors are responsible for constructing the framework of new buildings and structures out of metal by connecting steel girders, beams, and pipes together. Working as a steel erector requires you to follow specific designs that have been developed by architects and engineers. It's possible that you'll spend a lot of time working from high platforms at great heights.
How to Get Started in the Steel Erector Industry
In spite of the fact that being a steel erector does not call for any specific official training or education, there are a few different paths that may help you get started in this field. You may attend college, participate in an apprenticeship, or submit your resume and cover letter to a potential company directly.
You need to investigate each of these ways to become a steel erector so that you can choose which path is most suitable for you. Even while some of these opportunities call for certain qualifications, many businesses are more interested in hiring individuals who have a positive attitude, are ready to learn new things, and are able to follow directions.
If you want to work on a construction site, you may be required to have a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
College or other educational provider
Even though there are no hard and fast admission criteria, those who are interested in pursuing a career as a steel erector would do well to get GCSEs (or certificates that are similar) in both English and mathematics.
If you want to enhance your skills and increase your chances of finding work, you can consider earning a Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills or a Level 2 Award in Skills for Engineering.
You'll need:
Up to 2 GCSEs at grades 3 to 1 (D to G), or equivalent (level 1 course)
2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent (level 2 course).
Apprenticeship
A construction business that offers an apprenticeship program is a solid option for entry into the field.
You have the option of completing either an intermediate apprenticeship in structural steelwork erectoring or an advanced apprenticeship in engineering construction erectoring and rigging.
You'll need:
a minimum of two to three GCSEs, or their equivalent, including English and mathematics (intermediate apprenticeship)
5 GCSEs with marks between 9 and 4, or the equivalent in other grading systems, including English and mathematics (advanced apprenticeship).
Apprenticeships are available to anybody over the age of 16 who meets the requirements. You will be considered a full-time employee of the firm you apprentice for, and you will be required to put in a minimum of thirty hours of labor each week. Your time will be divided between getting experience on the job and attending school or working with a training provider.
Work
You could choose to apply directly to a construction business for a position as a steel erector if you have some prior experience working on building sites. You may begin by working as an assistant for a steel erector with more expertise, and as your skills grow, you could advance to more responsible positions.
Practice in the workplace
To be successful in finding a job in the construction sector, you need to have previous work experience. You may be able to acquire this knowledge via education, or by working weekends and holidays for a firm or a family who is employed in the steel erector industry. On a resume, previous job experience is always going to be something that prospective employers find very appealing.
Skills
Additional abilities that would be beneficial to somebody thinking about working as a steel erector include the following:
Acquaintance with the building trade
Competence in using logic and reason.
Maintaining a healthy level of physical fitness
confidence to do jobs at elevated levels
A consciousness of the health and safety regulations
Good team working capabilities.
What does a steel erector do?
An individual who works as a steel erector is the person who is in charge of constructing the "skeleton" frameworks for various kinds of building projects.
The following responsibilities are associated with performing the function of a steel erector:
Examining the detailed drawings that were put out by the architects and engineers
Putting together the components of a project
Sculpting and reducing the shape of steel
Utilization of both manual and powered tools
Putting in place and fastening together steel piping, beam sections, and girders in order to create a steel framework
Through the use of raised work platforms and scissor lifts
Laying metal decking
Putting up the protective netting and railings around the edges
Using tower cranes to move components into place while also directing them there.
The process of aligning and leveling steelwork in preparation for bolting it into position
On-site labor, often performed at a height.
How much money would you be able to make working as a steel erctor?
As one gains more experience as a steel erector, their compensation expectations will change accordingly.
Steel erectors with little to no experience may expect to earn between £19,000 and $25,000.
Steel erectors who have some experience and training may make between £25,000 and £35,000 per year.
Steel erectors who are senior or master trade workers may make between £35,000 and £45,000* per year.
Both your hours and your pay are determined by your location, your company, and any overtime that you put in.