Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Rebar Worker
What rebar workers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a rebar worker?
Review placing drawings. From there, the day usually includes read rebar drawings, place rebar, and tie bars. Full time, early starts.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a rebar worker working full time.
- Review placing drawings.
- Unload bundles.
- Place deck bars.
- Tie intersections.
- Set chairs.
- Place column cages.
- Walk the inspection.
Where rebar workers work
Rebar workers work outdoors on bridges, buildings and roads.
Hours and schedule
Full time, early starts.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read rebar drawings
- Place rebar
- Tie bars
- Set spacing
- Install chairs
- Cut and bend bar
- Work with inspectors
Tools you’ll use every day
- Tie wire reels
- Pliers
- Rebar tiers
- Cutters
- Benders
- Chairs and bolsters
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Union pay
- Big projects
- No degree needed
- Teamwork
What’s hard
- Bending and lifting
- Weather
- Heights
- Declining employment
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like heavy physical work
- I like big projects
- I don’t mind weather
- I like teamwork
- I can read drawings
- I want union pay
Not sure? Take the free Rebar Worker fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Cap exposed rebar
- Use fall protection
- Lift with help
- Wear gloves