What Does a Sheet Metal Mechanic Do?
A sheet metal mechanic is a skilled tradesperson who fabricates, assembles, installs, and repairs products made from thin metal sheets. They work with materials such as aluminum, steel, and copper to create components used in HVAC systems, roofing, siding, aircraft, vehicles, and industrial equipment. Their duties include measuring and cutting sheet metal, shaping it with specialized tools or machines, and fastening pieces together through welding, riveting, or soldering.
In addition to hands-on fabrication, sheet metal mechanics are responsible for interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders to ensure that projects meet exact specifications. They follow strict safety guidelines and quality standards while working with potentially hazardous tools and equipment. Their precision and craftsmanship make them essential to industries like construction, aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing, where reliable metal components are critical to performance and safety.
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Sheet Metal Mechanic Core Responsibilities
- Measure, cut, bend, and shape sheet metal for custom fabrication
- Assemble and install HVAC ductwork, panels, enclosures, and structural components
- Interpret blueprints, diagrams, and technical drawings
- Operate machinery such as presses, drills, shears, and CNC equipment
- Join sheet metal parts using welding, riveting, or soldering techniques
- Inspect completed work to ensure compliance with specifications
- Maintain tools, equipment, and a safe work environment
- Repair or replace damaged sheet metal components
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in sheet metal fabrication, cutting, and assembly
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and schematics
- Skilled in welding, soldering, and riveting
- Experience with CNC machines and fabrication tools
- Knowledge of safety procedures and OSHA standards
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- Commitment to workplace safety
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of vocational training or apprenticeship preferred
Certifications
- OSHA safety certification required for many positions
- AWS (American Welding Society) certification preferred
- NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) sheet metal credentials valued
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–5 years of sheet metal fabrication or installation experience
- Specialized knowledge in HVAC, aerospace, or marine sheet metal applications
- Experience managing or mentoring apprentices and junior mechanics
- Familiarity with advanced fabrication technologies, such as laser cutting or CNC programming
National Average Salary
Sheet metal mechanic salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Sheet Metal Mechanic is:
$54,452
Sample Job Description Templates for Sheet Metal Mechanics
Entry-Level Sheet Metal Mechanic
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level sheet metal mechanic to assist in fabricating, assembling, and installing sheet metal components. This role is designed for individuals who are beginning their careers in the trade and eager to learn through hands-on training. You will work under the supervision of experienced mechanics while gaining practical knowledge of tools, materials, and fabrication techniques.
Responsibilities
- Assist in measuring, cutting, and shaping sheet metal materials
- Support the assembly and installation of ductwork, panels, and enclosures
- Operate basic tools and equipment under supervision
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Follow safety procedures and company guidelines
- Learn to read and interpret blueprints and schematics
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic knowledge of hand and power tools
- Ability to measure and mark materials accurately
- Familiarity with shop safety practices
Soft skills
- Strong work ethic and eagerness to learn
- Attention to detail and precision
- Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
Certifications
- OSHA safety training preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- Completion of vocational coursework in metalworking or fabrication
- Previous internship, apprenticeship, or construction-related experience
Mid-Level Sheet Metal Mechanic
Position Overview
We are hiring a mid-level sheet metal mechanic with prior experience in fabrication and installation. This role requires the ability to work independently on assigned tasks while supporting larger projects in construction, HVAC, or manufacturing settings.
Responsibilities
- Measure, cut, bend, and shape sheet metal using tools and machinery
- Assemble and install ductwork, panels, or structural components
- Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Perform minor welding, riveting, and soldering tasks
- Inspect completed work to ensure compliance with specifications
- Maintain tools and equipment in good working condition
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with shears, brakes, drills, and fabrication tools
- Ability to read and understand blueprints and diagrams
- Skilled in basic welding, riveting, and soldering
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Effective communication and teamwork skills
- Attention to detail and quality control
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an apprenticeship or vocational training preferred
Certifications
- OSHA certification required
- AWS welding certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–5 years of experience in sheet metal fabrication or installation
- Background in HVAC, construction, or aerospace projects
Senior Sheet Metal Mechanic
Position Overview
We are looking for a senior sheet metal mechanic to handle advanced fabrication tasks and provide guidance to junior staff. This role requires technical expertise, precision, and the ability to oversee complex projects from design interpretation to final installation.
Responsibilities
- Fabricate, assemble, and install sheet metal components with minimal supervision
- Lead quality inspections and ensure compliance with industry standards
- Train and mentor entry-level and mid-level mechanics
- Collaborate with engineers and project managers on design feasibility
- Troubleshoot and repair damaged sheet metal products
- Maintain documentation of completed work and inspections
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced proficiency in sheet metal fabrication, welding, and assembly
- Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and technical specifications
- Experience operating CNC machinery and advanced fabrication tools
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Associate’s degree or trade school certification preferred
Certifications
- AWS certification required
- NIMS sheet metal credential preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of professional sheet metal experience
- Prior involvement in aerospace or large-scale construction projects
Lead Sheet Metal Mechanic
Position Overview
We are hiring a lead sheet metal mechanic to supervise day-to-day operations on fabrication and installation projects. This role requires advanced technical knowledge and leadership skills to guide teams and ensure projects are delivered on time and within quality standards.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and direct teams of sheet metal mechanics
- Oversee project timelines, safety compliance, and quality assurance
- Coordinate with engineers, supervisors, and clients
- Review blueprints and assign work based on project requirements
- Perform advanced fabrication tasks when needed
- Ensure proper use and maintenance of tools and equipment
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in sheet metal fabrication, welding, and installation
- Strong knowledge of project planning and scheduling
- Ability to conduct inspections and enforce compliance standards
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Ability to manage and motivate teams
- Decision-making and conflict-resolution abilities
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Vocational training or associate’s degree preferred
Certifications
- AWS certification required
- OSHA 30-hour certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 8–10 years of sheet metal experience
- Prior experience leading multi-person teams in construction or manufacturing
Sheet Metal Supervisor
Position Overview
We are seeking a sheet metal supervisor to oversee fabrication shop or field operations. This role requires both technical expertise and management skills to coordinate projects, manage personnel, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
Responsibilities
- Manage daily operations of sheet metal teams and shop activities
- Develop schedules and assign work to mechanics and apprentices
- Monitor progress and resolve technical or operational challenges
- Conduct inspections to ensure safety and quality compliance
- Train staff and oversee professional development initiatives
- Collaborate with project managers and clients on deliverables
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong background in sheet metal fabrication and installation practices
- Proficiency with shop equipment and advanced fabrication machinery
- Knowledge of OSHA safety regulations and compliance practices
Soft skills
- Excellent leadership and supervisory skills
- Strong communication and organizational abilities
- Ability to manage budgets and allocate resources effectively
Education
- High school diploma required; associate’s degree preferred
Certifications
- AWS certification required
- NIMS credential or supervisory training certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of sheet metal experience with at least 3 in a leadership role
- Experience managing shop operations or field crews
Sheet Metal Fabrication Manager
Position Overview
We are hiring a sheet metal fabrication manager to oversee all aspects of sheet metal production, from planning and scheduling to quality assurance and resource management. This executive-level role requires leadership, technical expertise, and the ability to align fabrication operations with business objectives.
Responsibilities
- Manage the sheet metal fabrication department and staff
- Oversee production schedules, budgets, and resource allocation
- Ensure compliance with quality control and safety regulations
- Implement process improvements and adopt new fabrication technologies
- Collaborate with engineering and operations leadership on project planning
- Provide executive-level reports on productivity and cost efficiency
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in sheet metal fabrication processes and project management
- Strong knowledge of CNC, laser cutting, and advanced fabrication equipment
- Ability to manage budgets and supply chain logistics
Soft skills
- Executive-level leadership and decision-making skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities
- Ability to develop and implement long-term operational strategies
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, manufacturing management, or related field preferred
Certifications
- AWS certification required
- Lean Six Sigma certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 12+ years of sheet metal experience, with at least 5 in a management role
- Proven track record of improving efficiency and scaling production operations