A structural fitter is a skilled professional who specializes in constructing and assembling steel structures, such as buildings, bridges, and other large structures. Structural fitters use a variety of tools and techniques to fabricate and fit parts together to create a complete structure. In this guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the structural fitter job description, including the skills and qualifications required, job responsibilities, and expected salary range.

A structural fitter is a trained specialist who assembles steel structures by aligning and fitting parts according to the specifications provided in blueprints or plans. These professionals are responsible for inspecting materials for quality, cutting and shaping metal components, and ensuring that the final structure meets safety standards. Structural fitters also use cranes, hoists, and other heavy-duty equipment to maneuver parts into place and complete the assembly process.

Importance of the Role

Structural fitters play a crucial role in the construction industry, ensuring that the structures they build are safe, sturdy, and durable. Their work is essential to ensuring that buildings, bridges, and other large structures remain functional and secure for many years to come. Without skilled structural fitters, it would be impossible to construct large-scale projects that require precision and attention to detail. Additionally, as the demand for new buildings and infrastructure continues to rise, the need for qualified structural fitters is expected to grow as well.

Requirements to Become a Structural Fitter

Becoming a structural fitter requires a combination of education and training, as well as essential skills and experience. Here are the key requirements:

A. Education and Training

Relevant Degrees and Certifications

While there is no strict requirement for a specific degree or certification to become a structural fitter, having a relevant degree or certification can give you an edge in the job market. For example, an associate degree in welding technology, mechanical engineering technology, or industrial technology can be beneficial.

Some relevant certifications include the American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certification in welding.

Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training

One of the most common paths to becoming a structural fitter is through apprenticeships and on-the-job training programs. These programs typically last three to four years and include a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

During the apprenticeship, you’ll learn how to read blueprints, use hand and power tools, and weld different materials. You’ll also learn about the different types of structural components, such as beams, columns, and trusses.

B. Essential Skills and Experience

Technical Skills

As a structural fitter, you’ll need a high level of technical skills. This includes being proficient in using hand and power tools, as well as being able to read and interpret blueprints.

You’ll also need to be skilled in welding different types of materials, such as steel, aluminum, and titanium. This requires knowledge of welding techniques and the ability to use welding equipment.

Physical Abilities

Being a structural fitter is physically demanding work. You’ll need to be able to lift heavy materials and work in uncomfortable positions, such as in confined spaces or at heights.

You’ll also need good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Previous Work Experience

Previous work experience in a related field, such as welding or construction, can be beneficial when becoming a structural fitter. This can include experience working with different types of materials, as well as experience reading blueprints and using hand and power tools.

Becoming a structural fitter requires a combination of education and training, as well as essential skills and experience. By pursuing relevant degrees or certifications, participating in apprenticeships, and developing technical skills and physical abilities, you can become a highly skilled and sought-after structural fitter in the construction industry.

Duties and Responsibilities of Structural Fitters

As an essential part of the construction industry, structural fitters play a critical role in assembling complex structures such as bridges, buildings, and pipelines. Their duties and responsibilities encompass a wide variety of tasks, ranging from reading blueprints and schematics to welding and soldering components.

A. Overview of the Role

Structural fitters are responsible for constructing and fitting metal components and structures to precise specifications. They work with a wide range of materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper, and must be skilled in metalworking techniques like welding, soldering, cutting, and grinding.

B. Primary Tasks and Responsibilities

Reading Blueprints and Schematics: Structural fitters must be able to read and interpret technical diagrams and blueprints accurately. This skill is critical as it enables them to understand the intricate structures they need to construct and ensure that the components are assembled correctly.
Cutting, Grinding, and Shaping Metal: Another essential task for structural fitters is to cut, grind, and shape metal components according to specific measurements and designs. This skill requires a high degree of technical expertise and precision as even slight deviations from the blueprint can compromise the structural integrity of the finished product.
Assembling and Fitting Parts: Structural fitters must have an exceptional understanding of how various components fit together and how they interact with each other. This skill involves the ability to align and secure the metal parts in a precise and efficient manner.
Measuring and Testing Components: Structural fitters must be able to measure and test components accurately to ensure that they conform to project specifications. This task requires a good understanding of math and technical drawing as well as the use of equipment like calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
Welding and Soldering: Structural fitters must be proficient in welding and soldering techniques. Welding involves fusing metal parts together using high temperatures, while soldering involves using a lower temperature to join two pieces of metal together. These techniques are critical to ensure that the structure is strong and secure.

C. Secondary Duties and Responsibilities

Maintaining Equipment and Tools: Structural fitters must maintain their equipment and tools in good condition to ensure that they are always ready to use. This task involves regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of tools and machines to ensure optimal performance.
Preparing Workspaces: Structural fitters must prepare their work areas before starting any project. This task includes cleaning the work area, setting up equipment, and ensuring that all necessary tools and materials are available.
Communicating with Other Professionals: Structural fitters must communicate effectively with other professionals working on the project, including architects, engineers, and construction workers. This communication is critical in ensuring that the project is on track and that everyone understands what needs to be done.

Work Environment and Conditions for Structural Fitters

Structural fitters typically work in industrial settings such as shipyards, fabrication shops, and construction sites. They work in areas that are often noisy, dusty, and prone to machinery operations. In addition, they may have to work in confined spaces and at heights.

A. Overview of the Work Environment

The work environment for structural fitters can be physically demanding, requiring stooping, crawling, and working in awkward positions. They usually work in teams, which can require coordination to provide efficient and effective work.

B. Potential Hazards and Risks

There are potential hazards and risks associated with the work environment of structural fitters, including:

1. Noise Exposure

The work environment of structural fitters can be noisy, which increases the risk of hearing damage. Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can cause permanent hearing loss if they are not wearing the proper protective equipment.

2. Physical Injuries

Structural fitters often work with heavy equipment and materials, which increases the risk of physical injuries such as cuts, bruises, and broken bones. They may have to climb ladders and work at heights, increasing the risk of falls.

3. Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Structural fitters may also be exposed to hazardous materials such as welding fumes, asbestos, and other chemicals which can cause respiratory or other health problems.

C. Safety Measures and Precautions

To minimize risks and hazards associated with the work environment of structural fitters, the following safety measures and precautions should always be in place:

1. Protective Equipment

Structural fitters must wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, steel-toe safety boots, and hearing protection to prevent injuries and minimize the risk of exposure to hazards.

2. Training and Protocols

Structural fitters should receive appropriate training on safety procedures, machinery operation, and handling hazardous materials. Proper safety protocols and procedures should also be implemented and followed at all times.

3. Emergency Procedures

Emergency procedures should be in place and reviewed regularly to ensure that all team members know how to react and respond to an emergency situation. This includes training on first aid techniques and communication protocols.

Although the work environment of structural fitters can pose hazards, these risks can be minimized by ensuring that safety measures and precautions are followed at all times. Ensuring that the correct protective equipment is worn, that proper training is in place, and that emergency procedures are established and practiced can greatly reduce the risk of injury or harm to workers.

Job Prospects and Opportunities for Structural Fitters

After gaining a comprehensive understanding of what a Structural Fitter is, their skills, and job responsibilities, it is important to address the job prospects and opportunities available in the field.

A. Overview of the Job Market

The role of a Structural Fitter continues to be in high demand since many industries depend on their services. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that structures are safe, stable, and properly designed. As such, they play a crucial role in the construction, manufacturing, aerospace, and marine industries.

B. Types of Employers and Industries

Structural Fitters have job prospects in various industries, such as:

1. Aerospace Industry

The aerospace industry requires Structural Fitters who can design and install structures for rockets, airplanes, and other types of aircraft. These professionals may work on metallic and composite airframes, fuselage assemblies, and more.

2. Construction Industry

In the construction industry, Structural Fitters install large metal structures, such as bridges, towers, and buildings. They also install equipment, such as heating and cooling systems, air ducts, and electrical wiring.

3. Manufacturing Industry

In the manufacturing industry, Structural Fitters work with metal, composite materials, and other materials to produce equipment and other products. They may work on various structures, including pipelines, tanks, boilers, and more.

4. Marine Industry

The marine industry needs Structural Fitters who can work on various vessels, such as cruise ships, oil rigs, yachts, and other types of boats. These professionals are responsible for installing and maintaining various structures.

C. Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for Structural Fitters is positive since many industries depend on their services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Structural Iron and Steel Workers was $53,970 as of May 2020. However, the salary may vary based on location, employer, and experience.

Structural Fitters who have expertise in industries such as aerospace and construction may have better job prospects and potentially higher salaries. Additionally, advancing their skills by acquiring additional certifications or licenses, such as welding or rigging, may increase job opportunities and higher earnings.

Structural Fitters are in-demand professionals who can excel in various industries. Whether in aerospace, construction, manufacturing, or marine, they play a crucial role in designing, installing, and maintaining various structures. With favorable job outlook and opportunities for professional growth, the field of Structural Fitting is an excellent career choice for those with the required skillset and passion for the job.

Advancement Opportunities for Structural Fitters

As a structural fitter, you have a chance to grow your career in various ways. You can explore roles that offer more responsibility, learn new skills, and develop new areas of expertise. This section will discuss the different opportunities that are available for structural fitters who want to advance in their careers.

A. Overview of Advancement Opportunities

The structural fitting industry is growing rapidly, and there is a high demand for experienced and skilled fitters. Companies are looking for employees who are willing to be proactive in their professional development and willing to take on more responsibility.

Advancement opportunities can include moving up the ranks to become a supervisor or lead role, becoming a quality control inspector, or specializing in welding. Additionally, pursuing relevant certifications and training can help you obtain higher paying jobs and open up career opportunities.

B. Possible Career Pathways

Supervisor or Lead Role

One of the most common career paths for structural fitters is to become a supervisor or lead. As a supervisor, you will be responsible for managing a team of fitters and ensuring that they are meeting production goals and following safety regulations. This role requires strong leadership skills, the ability to problem-solve quickly, and excellent communication skills. Additionally, as a supervisor, you will need to be knowledgeable about the equipment used in the industry and understand how to maintain that equipment.

Quality Control Inspector

Another pathway for career advancement is to become a quality control inspector. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring that the products being produced meet industry and customer standards. Quality control inspectors perform inspections, record data, and provide feedback to production teams. As a quality control inspector, you will need to have excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

Welding Specialist

Finally, becoming a welding specialist is another possible career pathway. This role involves learning advanced welding techniques and procedures, such as TIG and MIG welding. Welding specialists work on custom projects and can earn higher salaries than general structural fitters.

C. Relevant Certifications and Training

To pursue these career pathways, you will need to acquire additional certifications and training. Here are some certifications that could be relevant to your advancement:

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)

Training programs focused on software and computer-aided design (CAD) techniques can also be beneficial for professional development.

There are various opportunities for advancement available to structural fitters. After gaining experience in the field, you can explore potential pathways such as supervisor or lead roles, quality control inspector, or welding specialist. Additionally, pursuing relevant certifications and training can help you stand out among your peers and achieve higher job prospects.

Example Job Description for Structural Fitters

As a structural fitter, you will be responsible for assembling, installing, and repairing structural components and systems, ranging from simple frames to complex structures that make up buildings, bridges, and other industrial projects. To help guide you in creating a job description for a structural fitter, we’ve provided a comprehensive overview of essential requirements and qualifications, as well as the role’s primary duties.

A. Overview of a Sample Job Description

In this position, you’ll be working closely with engineers, architects, and project managers to interpret blueprints, plan layouts, and perform welding, bolting, and riveting on various metal components. You’ll need to have a strong understanding of technical specifications and be able to operate various hand and power tools. Additionally, your work environment may be noisy, require working at heights, and even exposure to extreme weather conditions.

B. Essential Requirements and Qualifications

Successful structural fitters need to have a combination of education, technical skills, experience, and physical abilities. Here are some of the essential requirements and qualifications for the job:

1. Education and Training

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for this role. Beyond that, some employers may prefer or require additional training, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or certification programs to develop the necessary skills to succeed. It’s also beneficial to have a strong understanding of mathematics, science, and mechanical principles.

2. Technical Skills and Experience

Structural fitters must have a strong attention to detail and be able to interpret complex blueprints and schematics. A good working knowledge of welding, bolting, and riveting techniques is also essential. Employers may require fitters to have experience with different types of materials, such as steel, aluminum, or composite materials.

3. Physical Abilities

This role requires physical stamina and dexterity, as you’ll need to be able to lift heavy objects, work at heights, and in challenging positions. Good hand-eye coordination is important, as is attention to detail.

C. Duties

The specific duties of a structural fitter may vary depending on the employer and the project at hand. Some of your responsibilities may include:

Interpreting blueprints and schematics to identify project specifications
Measuring and cutting materials to specified lengths or dimensions
Operating hand and power tools to prepare and assemble components according to project plans
Repositioning or modifying components using hand tools and other equipment as necessary
Performing quality control checks on completed projects
Keeping workspace clean and organized

To create a job description for a structural fitter, one must outline the essential requirements and qualifications, as well as provide a detailed overview of the specific duties the candidate will be undertaking. Furthermore, make sure to emphasize the importance physical abilities play in this role, such as working at heights and performing physical labor.

Structural Fitter Job Description: A Complete Guide for 2024