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Sheet Metal Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New England Air Systems

Sheet Metal Journeyman

Williston, VT · On-site

$26.25 - $33.25/hr

Experienced in operating and maintaining various tools and equipment used in sheet metal work, such as power shears, brakes, rollers, welding equipment, and hand tools. * Strong attention to detail ...

Cherokee Federal

Sheet Metal Mechanic

Albany, GA · On-site

$22 - $27.50/hr

This role involves interpreting engineering drawings and technical manuals, performing structural and corrosion-related repairs, and operating sheet metal fabrication equipment to support maintenance ...

United Support Services

Marine Sheet Metal

Kittery, ME · On-site

... operated machine tools and precision measuring instruments to ensure accuracy and quality ... with sheet metal work. • Utilize rigging and hoisting equipment safely and effectively during ...

Apera

Sheet Metal Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

This role is responsible for setting up, operating, maintaining, and improving sheet metal fabrication processes used to produce complex aerospace components. Technicians in this role are expected to ...

MCCORVEY COMPANIES

Sheet Metal Mechanic

Houston, TX

$23 - $28.75/hr

McCorvey Sheet Metal is a Family-owned and operated company seeking highly qualified, skilled commercial Sheet Metal Mechanics to join our team! Immediate availability and room for growth. If you ...

Apera

Sheet Metal Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

This role is responsible for setting up, operating, maintaining, and improving sheet metal fabrication processes used to produce complex aerospace components. Technicians in this role are expected to ...

Martin Energy Group

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Tipton, MO · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

The Sheet Metal Fabricator is responsible for laying out, fabricating, assembling, and installing ... This role requires interpreting technical drawings, operating fabrication equipment, and producing ...

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How much do sheet metal operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for sheet metal operator in the United States is $21.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a sheet metal worker earn?

The average salary for a sheet metal worker is around $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with specialized tools and safety training can earn higher wages, especially with overtime or union membership.

What is the difference between Sheet Metal Operator vs Fabricator?

AspectSheet Metal OperatorFabricator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, sometimes certifications in sheet metal workHigh school diploma, technical training or apprenticeship, certifications in welding or metalworking
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, workshopsFactories, construction sites, workshops
Industry UsageManufacturing, HVAC, aerospace, automotiveConstruction, manufacturing, custom metalwork
Job FocusOperating and maintaining sheet metal machinery, cutting, bending, assemblingDesigning, cutting, welding, assembling metal components

While both roles work with metal, a Sheet Metal Operator primarily operates machinery to shape and assemble sheet metal parts, often following detailed specifications. A Fabricator, on the other hand, is involved in designing and creating metal components, including welding and assembling, often requiring more technical skills and broader metalworking knowledge.

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

To thrive as a Sheet Metal Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and experience with sheet metal fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC machines, press brakes, shears, and CAD software is typically required, along with relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure precise fabrication, workplace safety, and efficient collaboration, all critical for delivering high-quality metal products.

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 Journeyman or Master status. They can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially in high-demand regions or with advanced knowledge of HVAC systems, welding, or industrial applications.

What are some common challenges faced by Sheet Metal Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Sheet Metal Operators often encounter challenges such as working with tight tolerances, handling heavy or awkward materials, and maintaining safety standards around cutting and forming equipment. To address these, operators must stay attentive to detail, follow safety protocols rigorously, and communicate closely with team members and supervisors to ensure accuracy and prevent errors. Continuous training on new machinery and safety updates also helps Sheet Metal Operators adapt efficiently and maintain high-quality output.

Is there a high demand for sheet metal workers?

Sheet metal operators are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, manufacturing, and HVAC projects. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as skilled workers are needed to operate and maintain sheet metal tools and equipment in various industries.

What does a Sheet Metal Operator do?

A Sheet Metal Operator is responsible for cutting, shaping, and assembling sheet metal materials to create parts or products used in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance. They use various tools and machines such as shears, presses, and rollers to measure, cut, and bend metal sheets according to specifications. The role also involves reading blueprints, ensuring quality control, and maintaining safety standards. Sheet Metal Operators often work in factories, workshops, or construction sites and may collaborate closely with other tradespeople.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Sheet metal operators who perform welding tasks, especially those with certifications in MIG, TIG, or arc welding, can earn around $50 an hour in certain regions or specialized industries. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand sectors like aerospace or industrial manufacturing can increase earning potential for welding-related roles within sheet metal work.
What cities are hiring for Sheet Metal Operator jobs? Cities with the most Sheet Metal Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Sheet Metal Operator jobs? The top employers for Sheet Metal Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Sheet Metal Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Sheet Metal Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Sheet Metal Operator jobs? For Sheet Metal Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sheet Metal Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sheet Metal Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,741 per year, or $21 per hour.
Sheet Metal Fabrication Equipment Operator

Sheet Metal Fabrication Equipment Operator

Qualdoc

Cocoa, FL

$27/hr

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Sheet Metal Fabrication Equipment Operator

Location: Cocoa Beach, FL
Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Shift: First Shift
Starting Pay: From $27.00 per hour (higher compensation may be available based on experience)

Position Overview

We are hiring a skilled Sheet Metal Fabrication Equipment Operator to support daily production in a metal fabrication facility. This position is responsible for operating press brakes, shears, and other fabrication equipment used to cut, bend, and shape structural steel and miscellaneous metal components.

The ideal candidate is comfortable reading fabrication drawings, working with precision measuring tools, and maintaining high standards for quality and workplace safety.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate press brakes, shears, and other metal fabrication equipment.
  • Cut, bend, and form structural steel and miscellaneous metal parts according to production requirements.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, work orders, and fabrication specifications.
  • Measure, mark, and lay out materials using tape measures, squares, levels, and other precision measuring tools.
  • Inspect completed parts to verify dimensions, quality, and conformance to specifications.
  • Safely move raw materials and finished products using forklifts and overhead cranes.
  • Keep equipment and work areas clean while following all safety procedures.
  • Support daily production goals while maintaining consistent workmanship.
Required Qualifications
  • At least 2 years of experience operating press brakes, shears, or similar fabrication equipment is preferred.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints, fabrication drawings, and production documents.
  • Experience working with structural steel or miscellaneous metals.
  • Familiarity with layout and precision measuring tools.
  • Forklift and overhead crane experience is preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail, good mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to producing quality work safely.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020

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