Sheet Metal Workers Salary Guide 2025: $61,800 Median, How to Start & Job Outlook
Sheet Metal Workers earn a national median salary of $61,800 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The mean annual wage is $67,850, which works out to roughly $30 per hour. The full range runs from $38,630 at the 10th percentile to $105,650 at the 90th, meaning top earners pull in over six figures. That's for the 119,770 workers employed in the occupation across the U.S.
How much Sheet Metal Workers earn
Pay varies significantly by location, experience, and industry. The median of $61,800 means half earn more, half less. New workers and those in lower-paying regions start around $38,630 or below, while seasoned union workers or those in high-cost states can exceed $105,650. Bonuses, overtime, and prevailing wage projects can push totals higher.
Industries also matter: workers in manufacturing tend to earn less than those in specialty trade construction. Union membership often comes with stronger benefits and structured wage scales.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically changes your paycheck. Washington tops the list with an annual mean wage of $98,550, followed by Hawaii ($96,350), Alaska ($94,600), New Jersey ($92,840), and Illinois ($86,630). These states tend to have strong construction sectors, union presence, or higher cost-of-living adjustments.
On the lower end, Nevada averages $46,730, Idaho $46,350, and Arkansas $45,820. These numbers reflect both lower prevailing wages and fewer large-scale industrial projects.
How to become Sheet Metal Worker
The most common route is a 4- or 5-year apprenticeship, which combines paid on‑the‑job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices typically start at 40‑50% of a journeyman's wage, earning progressive raises as they advance. Many programs are run by joint union‑management committees (e.g., SMART Local unions).
Entry requirements: a high school diploma or GED (or equivalent) and being at least 18. Useful high school courses include math, blueprint reading, and shop classes. Some workers start as helpers or in pre‑apprenticeship programs. After completing an apprenticeship, workers become journeyworkers. Voluntary certifications — like HVAC, welding, or LEED — can boost skills and employability.
- Complete a 4‑5 year apprenticeship program (union or non‑union).
- Or attend a trade school (1‑2 years) then find entry‑level work; promotion may require additional on‑the‑job training.
- Pass any required state or local licensing exams (varies by location; some states require a contractor license).
- Consider certifications from organizations like NATE or AWS to stand out.
Job outlook
The BLS projects 2.4% growth for Sheet Metal Workers from 2024 to 2034 — about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 10,600 openings each year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. Employment stands at 119,770 in 2024.
Demand ties to construction of commercial buildings, industrial plants, and HVAC systems. Energy efficiency retrofits and green building standards also create work. However, automation and off-site prefabrication may temper growth for on-site roles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a Sheet Metal Worker?
Apprentice wages typically start at 40–50% of journeyman rate, which nationally might be about $15–$18 per hour, rising with experience. Entry-level workers (first year after apprenticeship) often earn near the 10th percentile of $38,630.
Does a Sheet Metal Worker need a license?
Licensing requirements vary by state and locality. Some states require a contractor license if you work independently; others have no specific Sheet Metal license. Apprenticeship completion and union membership often satisfy local requirements.
How long does it take to become a Sheet Metal Worker?
A typical apprenticeship lasts 4–5 years. After that you're a journeyworker. Some trade school programs take 1–2 years, but you'll still need on‑the‑job training to reach full proficiency.
What is the highest paying state for Sheet Metal Workers?
Washington pays the highest mean annual wage at $98,550, followed by Hawaii ($96,350) and Alaska ($94,600).
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Sheet Metal Workers data.