structural steelwork fabricator welding metal with MIG welder

Structural Steelwork Fabricator Apprentice

Are you interested in starting a new career as a structural steelwork fabricator? If yes is the answer we are going to be doing a full expectations guide so you can make sure this role is right for you and make you aware of all the experience you’re able to gain from this apprenticeship!

What Do I Need To Be a Structural Steelwork Fabricator Apprentice?

Speaking academically you don’t actually need any prior qualifications to become a structural steelwork fabricator apprentice! However if you don’t come into the role with a level 2 maths and english qualification you will need to complete one before the end of your apprenticeship. You would be required to take a level 1 maths and english test and also then complete a level 2 maths and english test, However this would be part of your apprenticeship and you wouldn’t have to go out of you way or put your aspirations on hold whilst you complete this!

What Can I Gain From a Apprenticeship?

On this course specifically when you complete your apprenticeship you will receive a Level 2 Structural Steelwork Fabricator qualification. This will be recognised across the UK in the construction trade. This will almost be an entry pass for many open positions across the UK that require someone that has had hands on experience with welding on the job. However in general apprenticeships are used as a learn as you earn so you don’t have to spend time working towards a qualification to better your education whilst having no income which is not feasible for some, Which makes apprenticeships a great opportunity for anyone that is looking to learn.

What Is a Structural Steelwork Fabricator?

This is a crucial part of a construction team as they will be required to weld to a precision level due to the nature of their work being the main base of buildings so it needs structurally perfect as well as being not a sore sight as most of their work would be visible from the outside, Remember whatever is welded on the inside is visible from the outside and vice versa! The person in this role would also need to be comfortable using a MIG welding for this work, Which brings us to the next question…

What Is a MIG Welder?

MIG stands for Metal Inert Gas but is also referred to as “Gas Metal Arc Welding” this is because of how the welder works, An electric arc will form between the metal and wire electrode this then applies heat the the wire and creates a weld pool (molten metal). MIG welding is popular in this role due to being able to use materials up to 1/2 inch thick, This means you can get strong, solid welds but much faster due to the material being fed down a tube directly to the arc. The easiest way to picture a MIG welder is a large scale soldering iron but instead of you worrying about getting the wire close, the wire is automatically fed to you so you can focus on getting good looking and high quality welds. This is why it is quick to pick up and popular in the trade.

Soldering Iron, Manually Fed Wire

How Much Does a Structural Steelwork Fabricator Earn?

The current apprenticeship wage covers all occupations, There is no higher paying apprenticeship than the other unless the employer wants to pay more. The current apprenticeship wage is: £4.81 however after the first year of your apprenticeship you’re entitled to minimum wage for your age range. The average hourly rate for a qualified structural steelwork fabricator is £11.63.

How Long Does It Take To Become Qualified?

Typically the duration of the apprenticeship to become a structural steelwork fabricator is 24 months, There’s nothing to say you cant finish your apprenticeship earlier than that but the typical duration is 24 months.

Interested?

If you are interest in this apprenticeship or want to find an apprenticeship for you then please contact us below as we will be able to assist you in your search. We offer a wide range of government apprenticeships and are only looking to add more! Anything from electrician apprenticeships to nhs apprenticeships.

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