Fitter (general) is a skilled professional who plans, lays out, fits, and assembles metal parts, welds accessories, and subassemblies to fabricate production machines and other equipment. Becoming a fitter is not an easy job in today’s time. This physically demanding profession has many challenges and a lack of proper training and education. This leads to poor quality work and safety hazards. However, the solution is obtaining proper training and education. This will improve work productivity and employability and open up career growth opportunities. In this article, we will discuss several aspects of the fitter job description.
Post Highlights:
- Educational Qualifications
- Certification/License
- Work Experience
- Duties/Responsibilities
- Abilities/Skills
- Work Environment
- Physical Requirements
- Top Industries
- Job Types
- Salary Information
- Benefits/Perks
Educational Qualifications
Typical education requirements include-
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Certificate, Diploma, Associate Degree in Mechanical or Industrial Technology
Certification/License
Professional organizations or trade associations provide these certifications.
- AWS Certification
- NCCER Certification
Work Experience
All employers prefer work experience. Applicants can obtain this through-
- Apprenticeships
- On-the-Job Training
- Working in Related Fields
Duties/Responsibilities
Job duties include-
- Assemble/install machinery and equipment
- Communicate with supervisors and other team members
- Check metal parts for accuracy, clearance, and fit
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures
- Measure and mark materials for cutting and shaping
- Operate hand and power tools, including grinders, drills, and saws
- Perform routine maintenance and repair on machinery and equipment
- Read/interpret technical drawings and schematics
- Test and adjust machinery and equipment to ensure proper function
- Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with machinery and equipment
Abilities/Skills
General competencies include-
- Attention to Detail
- Communication Skills
- Forklift Operation
- Mechanical Skills
- Organizational Skills
- Physical Dexterity
- Preventive Maintenance
- Problem-solving Skills
- Safety Awareness
- Technical Skills
- Welding Skills
Work Environment
Work conditions are as follows-
- Install and maintain equipment used for power generation and distribution
- Install and maintain equipment used in oil and gas production
- Install and maintain HVAC systems, piping systems, and other equipment
- Install, maintain, and repair machinery and equipment used in the production process
- Repair and maintain equipment used in various industries
Physical Requirements
Some common requirements include-
- May be exposed to dust, fumes, and other airborne particles
- May be required to lift heavy equipment or tools
- May need to work at heights or in cramped or awkward spaces
- Must be aware of safety regulations and procedures
- Must have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
- Must have good vision and hearing
- Perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods of time
Top Industries
The workplaces include-
- Construction Industry
- Energy Industry
- Government Agencies
- Maintenance/Repair Industry
- Manufacturing Industry
- Transportation Industry
Job Types
Position types include-
- HVAC Fitter
- Machinery Fitter
- Pipefitter
- Marine Fitter
- Millwright
- Rigging Fitter
- Welder-Fitter
- Structural Fitter
Salary Information
The salary varies depending on factors such as education, experience, location, and industry type. Not all Fitters obtain the same salary in the United States. The average base hourly salary of a Fitter is $22.81. Some of the data on hourly, monthly, and yearly salary state.
1. Hourly Wages-
- Entry-level Fitter – $15-$20
- Experienced Fitter – $25-$35
- Highly skilled Fitter – $40 or more
2. Monthly Salaries-
- Entry-level Fitter – $2,500-$3,500
- Experienced Fitter – $4,000-$5,500
- Highly skilled Fitter – $6,500 or more
3. Yearly Salaries-
- Entry-level Fitter – $30,000-$42,000
- Experienced Fitter – $48,000-$66,000
- Highly skilled Fitter – $78,000 or more
These figures are based on national averages. They can vary from place to place significantly depending on the industry type. Fitters working in industries such as automotive, oil and gas, and aerospace may earn higher salaries than those in other industries.
Benefits/Perks
The most common benefits for Fitters include-
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Bonuses
- Dental Insurance
- Disability insurance
- Employee discounts
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Safety Equipment/Gear
- Training/Development
- Vision Insurance
Summary
The career can be a rewarding option for those interested in skilled trades and mechanical systems. Fitters can build successful careers with the right education, experience, and training. A variety of industries offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Aspiring applicants should research the job market properly and potential employers as well. This ensures that it is the best fit for your interests and goals.