Steel Erector

What does a steel erector do?

A steel erector is responsible for creating the ‘skeleton’ frameworks for construction projects of all shapes and sizes. 

The role of a steel erector involves the following duties: 

• Reviewing technical plans drawn by architects and engineers
• Planning project assembly
• Cutting and shaping steel
• Operating hand and power tools
• Installing and fixing together steel girders, pipework and beam sections to make a steel framework
• Using elevated work platforms and scissor lifts
• Laying metal decking
• Fixing safety netting and edge rails
• Lifting and guiding components into position with tower cranes
• Lining up and levelling steelwork before bolting it in place
• Working on-site, often at height.

How to become a steel erector

While there are no formal qualifications needed to become a steel erector, there are several routes you could take to help you pursue this career. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship or apply directly to an employer for work.

You should explore these routes to becoming a steel erector, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

College/training provider

Although there are no set entry requirements, anyone considering a career as a steel erector would benefit from achieving GCSE qualifications (or equivalent) in maths and English.

You could study for a Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills or a Level 2 Award in Skills for Engineering to improve your abilities and job prospects.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a course near you
• Funding advice 

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry.

You could complete a structural steelwork erector intermediate apprenticeship or an engineering construction erector/rigger advanced apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

• Guide to apprenticeships

Work

If you have some previous site experience, you could apply directly to a construction company for a job as a steel erector. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced steel erector and progress as your abilities improve.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a steel erector. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Find out more about work experience

Skills 

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a steel erector include: 

• Knowledge of construction
• Logical thinking skills
• Good level of physical fitness
• Confidence to work at height
• Awareness of health and safety guidelines
• Good team working skills.

How much could you earn as a steel erector?

The expected salary for a steel erector varies as you become more experienced.

• Newly trained steel erectors can start at £25000
• Trained with experience steel erectors can earn up to £70000*

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed an industry recognised training route. 

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources