What Is a Sheet Metal Mechanic and How to Become One

Table of Contents
What Is a Sheet Metal Mechanic?
A sheet metal mechanic is a professional who is skilled in molding sheet metal for use in construction or shipping projects. Sheet metal mechanic skills include altering, welding, repairing and assembling sheet metal products. Their duties are much the same as a sheet metal worker, but with additional responsibilities when it comes to inspecting and evaluating metal materials and products for repair and building, and following manuals and blueprint instructions for assembly. They are skilled in measuring, cutting and altering sheet metal, using various equipment such as saws, lasers, and presses.
How to Become a Sheet Metal Mechanic
To become a sheet metal mechanic, you can take relevant courses at a technical school or pursue an apprenticeship to learn the job through hands-on experience. Your training may include construction basics, blueprint reading, building code requirements, safety regulations, use of tools and equipment, and manufacturing techniques. You also learn how to install and repair products. There are various certifications you can obtain, either through the International Training Institute for the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Industry or similar organizations. Additional qualifications for this position include physical strength and stamina and basic math skills.
Sheet Metal Mechanic Job Description Sample
With this Sheet Metal Mechanic job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Sheet Metal Mechanic role.
Job Summary
Our company is looking for a new Sheet Metal Mechanic to help us with a variety of construction projects. In this role, you primarily work on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, with a focus on ductwork. You are responsible for prefabricating certain portions of the ducting, but you also do much of the duct installation on-site with power and hand tools. Our ideal candidate has experience with sheet metal, whether on a construction site or on an assembly line. You should also have completed an apprenticeship or a technical school program.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Install ductwork for new HVAC construction projects
- Repair existing systems
- Make plans and material estimates for each project
- Test and examine systems for quality
- Advise less specialized workers on the site
Requirements and Qualifications
- Technical school certificate or completed apprenticeship
- Experience with sheet metal and a variety of tools
- Manual dexterity and physical stamina
- Construction experience
- Certificate from the International Training Institute for the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Industry (preferred)