5 of the Best Paying Jobs in Metal Fabrications
These workers help build our world.
The metal fabrication field revolves around turning metal into other products. The field includes welding and assembling, which combine separate metal pieces. Jobs in this sector can work on projects from as small as a keyring that fits in your hand to an entire building!
Metal fabrication workers usually earn middle-class wages. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average earnings for a non-supervisory position in the metal fabrication field is around $25 an hour for an average workweek just over 40 hours long. Some jobs can pay significantly more, so let's take a look at the five best-paying jobs in metal fabrication (Hint: #5 pays over $100,000).
Job #1: CNC Machinist
A machinist uses a variety of machine tools to produce precision metal parts.
What it is
What separates a CNC Machinist from a conventional machinist is that CNC machinists are trained to use computer numerically controlled machine tools. These CNC machines control the cutting tool speed and make all the necessary cuts.
The machinist is responsible for programming instructions into the machine and determining its cutting path, cutting speed, and feed rate. Many machinists must use CNC and manual machines, so be prepared accordingly.
CMC machinists may produce large quantities of one part, but precision machinists often make small batches or single items. Sometimes they repair or replace broken pieces in a factory's machines, referring to engineering drawings to do so.
CNC machinists tend to work in machine shops and factories. Most work full-time during business hours, although some work overtime, nights, or weekends.
Required education
For most CNC machinist jobs, you'll need specialized certification that you can get at most technical schools and community colleges.
Expected salary
The median annual wage for machinists starts at around $49,000.
Job growth
Overall employment of machinists is expected to remain stable over the next decade.
Job #2: Welder
Being a welder is a rewarding, fast-paced career.
What it is
Welders apply heat to pieces of metal, melting them together and fusing them to create a permanent bond. There are many ways a welder can achieve this. Arc welding, for example, uses an electrical current to generate the required heat. The welding process in each case depends on various factors, such as the types of metal being welded.
The equipment welders can be either hand-held or remotely controlled, depending on the items being welded. They can work either outdoors or indoors.
Required education
Welders typically need a high school diploma and some level of technical training. On-the-job training is also typically provided, along with certifications for specific types of welding skills and tools.
Expected salary
The median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is $47,000. Those employed in repair and maintenance make slightly more, at $48,500, and specialty trade contractors make the most, at $50,000.
Job growth
Jobs for welders are projected to grow by 2% over the next decade, slower than the average projected growth for all occupations (5%) but faster than the projected growth for all metal and plastic workers (-2%).
Job #3: Drill Press Operator
Drill press operators set up and operate drilling machines.
What it is
The machines operated by drill press operators bore, ream, mill, and countersink metal components from trampolines to cars to shelving units. The drill press operator must observe the drilling machines and the results of their work, periodically inspecting the parts the drill press produces. If they show defects, it may be a sign that the drill is dull or damaged.
The drill press operator will replace the worn part in that case.
Drill press operators usually work in factories, where workers must adhere to safety standards to protect against possible hazards. Most drill press operating jobs are full-time and may include evening and weekend work.
Required education
Drill press operators usually need a high school diploma to enter the occupation, after which some level of on-the-job training is generally provided.
Expected salary
As of this year, drill press operators' median yearly income was $39,000. However, this job can be a great way to get your foot in the door and earn more quickly.
Job growth
Overall employment for drill press operators is projected to shrink by 19% over the next decade.
Job #4: Team Assembler
Team assemblers work on assembly lines to build finished products and the parts that go into them, rotating through different tasks rather than specializing in a single task.
What it is
Assemblers use hand tools or power tools to assemble their products. Sometimes team assemblers have some charge over how duties are assigned and completed. They look for mistakes and faulty components on the assembly line, fixing said faults when they can.
Designers and engineers sometimes solicit advice from team assemblers during the design process, gathering ideas on how they can make their products more reliable and efficient to manufacture. Most of their work is done in manufacturing plants, involving long periods of standing or sitting.
Required education
For most team assembler jobs, only a high school education is required. However, specific industries and employers may require some degree of post-secondary education. Advanced assembly work will need work experience and even certificates to ensure their skill level.
Expected salary
The expected pay for team assemblers varies between industries, with an average of $37,000. Particularly high-paying industries include the timing device industry ($39,000), the engine industry ($47,440), and the aircraft industry ($49,480).
Job growth
Overall employment of assemblers and fabricators is expected to shrink by 6% over the next decade. This is mostly due to automation, which in turn will create it's own set of new jobs.
Job #5: Production Manager
Production managers oversee factory operations.
What it is
Production managers direct, plan, and coordinate activities related to the production of industrial goods. They can manage an entire factory or a specific area of production. Production managers who oversee entire factories are expected to coordinate with other departments to keep operations running smoothly.
Required education
Production management jobs typically require a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience. Since you'll be responsible for a vareity of departments, it's helpful to have previous experience in those areas.
Expected salary
The average salary of a production manager is $103,150. The most lucrative industry to be a production manager is chemical manufacturing, which pays an average of $125,480 a year.
Job growth
Production management jobs are expected to grow by 3% over the next decade.
So, now that you have a better idea of what jobs are available — which one seems like the best fit for you?