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Sheet Metal Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AAR

Aircraft Sheet Metal Lead

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$24.50 - $31.75/hr

Aircraft Sheet Metal Lead Location: United States-Oklahoma-Oklahoma City-Oklahoma City - Aircraft Services Job Number: 16437 AAR is the place of choice to build an inspiring career. Provide ...

Key Heating & Cooling

HVAC Sheet Metal Lead

Exeter, NH · On-site

Salary: $35-$40hr Sheet Metal Lead Installer About Key HVAC Key HVAC is an established, family-owned HVAC company seeking a motivated and dependable Sheet Metal Installer to join our growing team.

Key Heating and Cooling

HVAC Sheet Metal Lead

Exeter, NH · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Sheet Metal Lead Installer About Key HVAC Key HVAC is an established, family-owned HVAC company seeking a motivated and dependable Sheet Metal Installer to join our growing team. The successful ...

ColonialWebb

Lead Sheetmetal Mechanic

Richmond, VA

$28 - $32/hr

Lead Sheet Metal Mechanic-Fabrication As Lead Sheet Metal Mechanic, you will Lead a team of Sheet metal mechanics, helpers in fabricating, assembling, and installing sheet metal products and ...

Lead National CSRO

Hvac Installers

Akron, OH · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Opportunity to work with a professional team on commercial projects If you're a skilled Sheet Metal Mechanic ready to get to work, apply today! LEAD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and ...

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Sheet Metal Lead information

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$11

$25

$44

How much do sheet metal lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for sheet metal lead in the United States is $25.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid sheet metal worker?

The highest paid sheet metal workers are typically those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as the Certified Sheet Metal Worker (CSMW). Senior lead or supervisory roles in large construction projects can earn salaries exceeding $80,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on location and industry demand.

Is sheet metal a hard job?

Sheet metal work as a lead involves physical tasks such as cutting, shaping, and installing metal sheets, which can be physically demanding and require attention to detail. It often requires knowledge of tools, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications, making it a challenging but manageable profession for those with relevant skills and experience.

What does a Sheet Metal Lead do?

A Sheet Metal Lead supervises and coordinates the work of a team responsible for fabricating, assembling, installing, and repairing sheet metal products and structures. They ensure that projects are completed on schedule, meet quality standards, and comply with safety regulations. In addition to hands-on work, they also interpret blueprints, assign tasks, train workers, and communicate with other departments or clients about project requirements.

How much does a sheet metal worker earn?

A sheet metal lead typically earns between $25 and $40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often oversee installation and fabrication processes, requiring knowledge of tools and safety standards.

Is there a high demand for sheet metal workers?

Sheet metal workers are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, HVAC, and manufacturing projects. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as infrastructure and building renovations continue, and skills in welding and blueprint reading enhance job prospects.

What is the difference between Sheet Metal Lead vs Sheet Metal Installer?

AspectSheet Metal LeadSheet Metal Installer
CertificationsOften requires OSHA safety training, possibly a lead or supervisory certificationTypically OSHA safety training, no lead-specific certification
Work EnvironmentSupervises and coordinates installation teams, oversees project progressPerforms installation of ductwork, panels, and other sheet metal components
Job ResponsibilitiesLead team, ensure safety, quality control, and adherence to scheduleInstall sheet metal systems according to plans and specifications

The main difference is that the Sheet Metal Lead supervises and coordinates the work of installers, ensuring safety and quality, while the Sheet Metal Installer focuses on executing the installation tasks. The Lead role involves more oversight and leadership, whereas the Installer role is more hands-on with the physical work.

What are the common challenges faced by a Sheet Metal Lead when managing a team on large construction projects?

As a Sheet Metal Lead, you may encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules among team members, ensuring consistent quality across all installations, and managing material logistics to avoid delays. Large projects often require close collaboration with other trades, like HVAC and electrical, which means strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential. Successfully overcoming these challenges not only keeps the project on track but also positions you for further leadership opportunities within your organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sheet Metal Lead, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sheet Metal Lead, you need advanced knowledge of sheet metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and supervisory experience, often supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machines, and safety protocols is typically required, along with OSHA certification. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help coordinate teams and ensure project efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering quality work, maintaining safety, and meeting project deadlines in complex manufacturing or construction environments.
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Sheet Metal Lead jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sheet Metal Lead job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,817 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Fabrication Sheet Metal Lead

J.Riley Recruitment

Houston, TX

$26 - $28/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Our client is seeking a hands-on Fabrication Sheet Metal Lead to oversee daily shop operations while actively working on the floor. This role is ideal for an experienced fabricator who leads by example, maintains high quality standards, and keeps production moving.

Responsibilities

  • Lead daily sheet metal fabrication activities while remaining hands-on with equipment and production

  • Operate and set up fabrication equipment such as press brakes, punch presses, plasma cutters, or similar machinery

  • Read and interpret fabrication drawings to ensure accuracy, tolerances, and quality standards are met

  • Coordinate workflow, prioritize jobs, and support team members to meet production schedules

  • Enforce safety standards, maintain organized work areas, and address quality or production issues as they arise

Requirements

  • Proven experience in a sheet metal fabrication environment

  • Hands-on experience operating CNC or manual fabrication equipment

  • Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings and blueprints

  • Prior lead or supervisory experience in a fabrication or shop setting

  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and commitment to safety

Why Join Our Client
This is an opportunity to step into a working leadership role where craftsmanship and accountability matter. You’ll be part of a production-focused environment that values quality work, teamwork, and leaders who stay engaged on the shop floor.

About J.Riley Recruitment
J.Riley Recruitment is THE Veteran-Owned Business connecting Military Veterans and Top Professionals with the Best Companies. Since our founding in 2020, J.Riley Recruitment has leveraged over a decade of Talent Acquisition expertise to deliver exceptional results. Our network extends coast to coast, empowering organizations nationwide to overcome challenges and achieve success.

Built on a foundation of integrity, discipline, and precision, we bring operational excellence and adaptability to recruitment that defines top-tier organizations. By understanding our clients’ unique challenges and aligning with their goals, we deliver high-performing talent that drives mission-focused outcomes.

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