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Sheet Metal Worker: Occupations in Alberta - alis
Are you good at taking a drawing and transferring it onto material? Do you have good math and mechanics skills? Are you physically fit? Then you may have the grit for a career as a sheet metal worker.
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Occupations in Alberta
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Apprenticeship

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet metal workers design, fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products.

Contents Expand All
Also Known As

Sheet Metal Fabricator, Sheet Metal Mechanic, Tinsmith

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 7261: Sheet Metal Workers

2006 NOC-S

  • H321: Sheet Metal Workers

2011 NOC

  • 7233: Sheet metal workers

2016 NOC

  • 7233: Sheet metal workers

2021 NOC

  • 72102: Sheet metal workers

2023 OaSIS

  • 72102.00: Sheet metal workers
Duties
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Sheet metal workers use many types of metal including black and galvanized steel, copper, brass, nickel, stainless steel, and aluminum to make products such as:

  • Pollution control systems, dust collection and control systems, air-slides, grain spouts, material blowers, air-veyors and other air systems
  • Heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems
  • Solar heating and cooling systems and all integral equipment
  • Metal showcases, display neon and metal signs
  • Metal cabinets, custom built tables, counters and fixtures for hospitals, kitchen equipment and items for the food service and beverage industry
  • Electrical panels and related equipment
  • Dairy, brewery and laboratory equipment
  • Metal shelving, lockers, window frames, metal doors and frames, toilet partitions
  • Flashing, coping, troughing and roof drainage systems
  • Custom or small fabrication runs of sheet metal items

On occasion, sheet metal workers substitute fibreglass or plastic for metals.

In general, sheet metal workers:

  • Lay out, measure and mark dimensions and reference lines on sheet metal according to drawings or templates
  • Use laser or plasma cutting equipment, numerically-controlled or computerized equipment, hand and power shears and snips, and light metal-working equipment to cut, drill, punch, bend and shape sheet metal
  • Fasten components together using bolts, screws, cement, rivets, or adhesives, and using methods such as soldering and welding
  • Install and repair sheet metal products and ensure installations conform to specifications and building codes
  • Do metal cladding of insulated piping and equipment on industrial sites
  • Manufacture and install flashing and coping for roofing applications
  • Supply, install, service and repair air handling equipment, furnaces, fans, air terminal devices and split system air conditioners

Sheet metal workers may work from verbal instructions or blueprints, or design small jobs themselves.

Working Conditions
Updated Mar 31, 2020
  • Strength Required Lift over 20 kg

Sheet metal workers work indoors and outdoors in all types of weather. They make some products in a shop and install them at construction sites. Other products such as roofing and siding have to be measured and cut at the construction site.

A 40-hour workweek is normal, but overtime may be required to meet construction deadlines.

Sheet metal workers have to stand for long periods and do considerable bending and reaching. Their work environment can be noisy and in high or cramped spaces. They may have to lift and move items weighing over 25 kilograms.

Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Sheet Metal Workers

2006 NOC: 7261

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
OBJECTIVE

Interest in precision working to measure and mark sheet metal, and to operate computerized laser and plasma cutting equipment to cut sheet metal; and in developing patterns for sheet metal using computer assisted design and drafting (CAD) software

METHODICAL

Interest in grinding and buffing seams, joints and rough surfaces

INNOVATIVE

Interest in compiling information to inspect product quality and installation to ensure products conform to specifications and building codes

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Abilities

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Mental Abilities

General Learning Ability

Verbal Ability

Numerical Ability

Visual Abilities

Spatial Perception

Form Perception

Clerical Perception

Physical Abilities

Motor Coordination

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Understanding Abilities

A Quick Guide

You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Learn About Abilities

Traits & Skills
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Sheet metal workers need:

  • Patience, dependability and accuracy
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Good physical condition
  • Hand-eye co-ordination
  • Spatial and form perception
  • Manual dexterity
  • Communication skills
  • The ability to visualize a finished product from a drawing

They should enjoy being creative and developing specialized skills.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Sheet metal workers

2016 NOC: 7233

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 115 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Nov 05, 2021 and Nov 06, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Health benefits: Health care plan
Health benefits: Dental plan
Tasks: Fit and join sheet metal parts
Tasks: Read and interpret blueprints, maps, drawings and specifications
Tasks: Cut materials using power tools or by hand
Attention to detail
Tasks: Measure and mark sheet metal according to template
Tasks: Install sheet metal products according to specifications and building codes
Team player
Dependability
Health benefits: Health care plan 77
Health benefits: Dental plan 70
Tasks: Fit and join sheet metal parts 66
Tasks: Read and interpret blueprints, maps, drawings and specifications 61
Tasks: Cut materials using power tools or by hand 61
Attention to detail 58
Tasks: Measure and mark sheet metal according to template 56
Tasks: Install sheet metal products according to specifications and building codes 54
Construction Specialization: Team player 53
Construction Specialization: Dependability 52
Educational Requirements
Updated Mar 31, 2020
  • Minimum Education Apprenticeship

To work in Alberta, a sheet metal worker must be ONE of the following:

  • A registered apprentice
  • An Alberta-certified journeyperson
  • Someone who holds a recognized related trade certificate

To register with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training, apprentices must find a suitable employer who is willing to hire and train them. They must also meet ONE of the following:

  • Have an Alberta high school transcript with at least English Language Arts 20-2, Math 20-3, and Science 10, or equivalent
  • Have a pass mark in all 5 Canadian General Educational Development (GED) tests
  • Pass an entrance exam

Most employers prefer to hire high school graduates. A good background in practical math, geometry and document reading is important.

The sheet metal worker trade is a dual certification trade in Alberta, which includes gasfitter-Class B. Those interested in the sheet metal worker trade will apply to apprentice as a sheet metal worker and gasfitter-Class B. Applicants who are certified as a gasfitter-Class A or Class B need only to apply for apprenticeship in the sheet metal worker trade.

The term of apprenticeship is 4 years (four 12-month periods) that include a minimum of 1,500 hours of on-the-job training and 10 weeks of classroom instruction each year.

High school students can earn credits toward apprenticeship training and a high school diploma at the same time through the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). Applicants who have related training or work experience may be eligible for admission, credit, or certification. Credits may reduce the period of apprenticeship.

Sheet metal worker apprentices may take the interprovincial exam in the final period of their apprenticeship training to earn a Red Seal (certification recognized in most parts of Canada).

Classroom instruction is arranged by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training. For more information, see the Apprenticeship Training Catalogue.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Apprenticeship Trades
Northwestern Polytechnic

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Mar 31, 2020
  • Certification Provincially Regulated

Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.

The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet metal workers design, fabricate, assemble, install and repair sheet metal products. For more information, see the Designated Trades Profile section of Alberta’s Tradesecrets website.

Legislation

Under Alberta’s Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Education Act [pdf], you must have a certificate that is recognized by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training or be a registered apprentice to design, fabricate, assemble, install or repair sheet metal products in Alberta.

For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Sheet Metal Worker.

Additional Information

Certified tradespeople who want to build their business skills may obtain an Achievement in Business Competencies (Blue Seal) Certificate from Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Most sheet metal workers are employed by sheet metal, air conditioning and heating contractors involved in residential, commercial and industrial construction. A few are self-employed or work in shops with related trades. Some find work with roofing contractors, installing flashing and coping.

Since most sheet metal workers in Alberta work in the construction industry, their employment prospects change when the economy changes.

Experienced sheet metal workers may become specialists in design and layout work, or in estimating the cost of installations. They may advance to supervisory positions or go into business for themselves.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Sheet metal workers
2016 NOC: 7233

87.6% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Look for Work

Think Industries and Sectors When Planning Your Career

Jobs and occupations are changing every day. It can be hard to know what the future of work looks like—but not impossible. Look at industries and sectors for possible inspiration, insights, and opportunities.
3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Sheet metal workers
2021 NOC: 72102
Medium
Demand
1,900
Employed

Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list
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iStock.com/filadendron
OCCinfo

Employment Outlook

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors. Learn how these factors can affect your career decisions.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Sheet metal workers
2016 NOC: 7233
2.3%
Annual Growth
(Below Average)
44
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Journeyperson sheet metal workers wage rates vary but generally range from $25 to $40 an hour plus benefits (2019 estimates). Apprentices earn at least 50% of the journeyperson wage rate in their place of employment in the first year, 65% in the second, 75% in the third and 85% in the fourth.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Sheet metal workers

2016 NOC: 7233
Average Wage
$31.75
Per Hour
Average Salary
$67,075.00
Per Year
Average Hours
40.6
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
 2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 7233 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $15.00 $37.00 $22.24 $18.50
Overall $22.00 $38.62 $31.75 $33.00
Top $25.00 $42.00 $36.30 $37.00

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Construction
Manufacturing
Public Administration
ALL INDUSTRIES $67,075
Construction $70,655
Manufacturing $56,929
Public Administration $75,551

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
57%
57%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
31%
31%
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
10%
10%
Vacancy Rate
2%
Related High School Subjects
  • Mathematics
  • Trades, Manufacturing and Transportation
    • Construction
    • Fabrication
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Trades, Industrial and Related Training
Other Sources of Information
Updated Mar 31, 2020

Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website: tradesecrets.alberta.ca

BuildForce Canada website: www.buildforce.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 31, 2020. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

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