Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
O*NET 51-2041.00 · SOC 51-2041
Structural Metal Fabricator is a risky career choice. Median pay is $51k a year with -6.2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 4,800 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Cut structural steel beams and plates to specified dimensions
- →Weld metal sections together using arc or MIG welding
- →Align and clamp metal parts before welding or bolting
- →Read blueprints to determine correct metal placement and fit
- →Grind and smooth welds to meet finish specifications
Education & How to Get In
Structural Metal Fabricator roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Structural Metal Fabricator involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Structural Metal Fabricator?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Structural Metal Fabricator Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters is projected to decline 6.2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·37% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target
- ·48% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Structural Metal Fabricator make?
The median Structural Metal Fabricator earns $51k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Structural Metal Fabricator jobs?
Our model puts Structural Metal Fabricator at 63 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 37% routine cognitive tasks — high automation target; 48% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Structural Metal Fabricator a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 6.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 4,800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Structural Metal Fabricator?
Most Structural Metal Fabricator roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Structural Metal Fabricator?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Structural Metal Fabricator career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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