FAQ
Metal Fabricator FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a metal fabricator.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a metal fabricator: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about metal fabricators
Do fabricators need welding certification?
It helps.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects decline.
Is it a path to welding?
Yes.
How much does a metal fabricator make?
The median annual wage for metal fabricators was $51,330 ($24.68 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,960 and the highest 10% earned more than $72,280.
How long does it take to become a metal fabricator?
Most people need about Several months on the job of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a metal fabricator?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is metal fabricator a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -6.2% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 4,800 openings each year. Upsides include build real things; a common challenge is that declining employment.
What skills does a metal fabricator need?
Key technical skills include blueprint reading, layout, cutting, and fitting. Employers also value precision, problem-solving, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for metal fabricators?
Common credentials include AWS welding certification, Crane rigging certification, Blueprint reading course, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Metal Fabricator fit quiz, compare with Welder, or explore Metal Fabricator training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 51-2041 (Structural metal fabricators and fitters).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Structural metal fabricators and fitters (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.