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Metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations mark off, drill, shape, position, rivet and seal metal plates and girders to form structures and frameworks operate power hammers and presses to shape heated metal to requirements and to make and repair a variety of metal articles and make moulds and cores for casting metal and pour or inject molten metal into dies.

Main tasks

  • Scoops molten metal from furnace into die or die casting machine.
  • Fits and secures horses shoes.
  • Tempers and hardens forged pieces, as required, by quenching in oil or water.
  • Uses forging tools to shape and cut metal and bends or shapes metal by hand forging methods using hammers, punches, drifts and other hand tools.
  • Operates press or hammer and repositions workpiece between strokes.
  • Heats metal for forging and positions heated metal on anvil or other work surface.
  • Seals seams with caulking compound, smooths welds, fixes metal doors, metal collars, portholes, tank and hatch covers and performs other metal plate finishing tasks using a variety of hand and power tools.
  • Creates mould units out of sand, loam or plaster by hand or machine and fits cores into mould to form hollow parts in casting.
  • Uses hydraulic jacks to position and align metal platework or frame for welding and bolting and rivets together metal plate and girders.
  • Uses machine tools to bend, curve, punch, drill and straighten metal plate as required.
  • Marks out metal plate with guidelines and reference points and cuts metal plate using hand or machine tools.
  • Examines drawings and specifications to determine operational requirements.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£51,807.11

Average earnings

£34,009.49

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Education and Training

Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 3 NVQ; A Levels

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 7%
Level 1 12%
Level 2 12%
Level 3 65%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 1%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 3%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.