As a sheetmetal worker, you’ll use drawings and blueprints to create finished metal parts. You’ll be skilled in using specialised tools and machines to cut, bend, and weld metals with extremely high accuracy. You will enjoy working with other tradespeople and engineers to create and maintain rail equipment and infrastructure.

Sheetmetal workers produce parts that are used on our trains and rail infrastructure. They are highly skilled in using specialised power tools, and may use computer programs to assist in their work. They always wear protective equipment to keep them safe. Sheetmetal work can be physically demanding and may require working at heights or lifting heavy materials and equipment. Sheetmetal workers have excellent attention to detail and know how to follow directions. They are skilled in interpreting blueprints, drawings, and documents to complete a project.

As an apprentice, you’ll learn your trade from experienced trainers and senior technicians. You’ll spend time in classrooms, workshops, and maintenance yards as you complete your training and start your career. Once qualified, you’ll often be in a workshop or maintenance yard with other tradespeople, technicians and engineers. You may work alone or in remote areas in some roles.

Sheetmetal workers typically need a Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade. If you don’t have experience or qualifications, there are many apprenticeship opportunities which provide you with all the training you’ll need. You’ll complete a vocational training course and receive a certificate level qualification while you work. You could also become a sheetmetal worker if you have extensive experience in metal fabrication.