Sheetmetal Apprenticeship
A Sheetmetal Apprenticeship is a paid, nationally accredited training pathway that prepares you for a broad range of precision metal fabrication roles.
Apprentices spend around four years learning to mark out, cut, shape and join sheet metal using specialised tools and machinery, while completing the MEM31922 Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade.
Sheetmetal workers are skilled tradespeople who fabricate and install metal components used across manufacturing, construction, food production, marine and aerospace industries. The trade combines hands-on craft with modern fabrication technology like laser cutting machines, press brakes and CNC equipment.
It's a versatile fabrication trade with strong demand, broad industry application, and clear pathways into specialist or supervisory roles.
What Does a Sheetmetal Worker Do?
Sheetmetal workers fabricate and install metal products such as ductwork, roofing, gutters, panels and architectural components. They work with a range of metals including stainless steel, copper, aluminium and galvanised steel, generally working with lighter gauge materials under 6mm.
Sheetmetal fabrication tasks can include:
- Reading and interpreting detailed drawings and specifications to determine job requirements, materials and equipment needed
- Marking out stock with reference points and lines, using templates, gauges and other measuring instruments
- Joining metal parts by riveting, bolting, welding, brazing or soldering, and drilling mounting holes
- Polishing and finishing precision products
- Shaping and forming cut material into finished products by operating sheetmetal shaping, forming, cutting and joining machines
- Operating specialist equipment including laser cutters, power shears, press brakes, turret punches and welding machines
Sheetmetal workers find roles across manufacturing, food production, construction, marine and aerospace industries. Many work for companies that specialise in fabrication and installation, such as roofing or air conditioning (HVAC) contractors.
How Long is a Sheetmetal Apprenticeship?
A sheetmetal apprenticeship takes around four years of combined work and study to complete.
You'll get paid hands-on training in a workshop or similar environment under qualified tradespeople, alongside studying for your MEM31922 Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade at TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation.
The qualification sits within the Manufacturing and Engineering training package, which also covers related fabrication trades like Boilermaking, Fabrication, and Casting and Moulding.
Sheetmetal Worker Salary
A qualified sheetmetal worker in Australia in 2026 typically earns between $75,000 and $80,000 per year, with higher salaries often available in construction, mining, manufacturing and industrial fabrication industries. (Seek)
Sheetmetal Apprentice Wages
As a sheetmetal apprentice, you'll generally be paid under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award or an EBA provided by your employer. Apprentice pay rates increase as you move through each stage of your apprenticeship and build your skills and experience.
Your weekly wage can vary depending on factors such as whether you've completed Year 12, whether you're an adult apprentice, any EBA conditions, employer or host benefits, and relevant government support.
Indicative weekly Award wages for a sheetmetal apprentice as at 1 July 2025, ranging from stage 1 (lowest) to stage 4 (highest):
- Junior apprentice, did not complete Year 12: $534.20 to $940.19 per week
- Junior apprentice, completed Year 12: $587.62 to $982.40 per week
- Adult apprentice (21 years and over): $854.72 to $982.40 per week
(Source: Fair Work Ombudsman Pay Guide MA000010)
These rates represent minimum Award pay for manufacturing apprenticeships and may vary depending on the type of employer and work performed. Additional payments such as overtime, site allowances and tool allowances may also apply.
Sheetmetal Apprenticeships are included on the Government's Australian Apprenticeships Priority List, meaning eligible apprentices may be able to access additional financial assistance during their apprenticeship.
Skills and Requirements
Sheetmetal work calls for a particular blend of precision, physical capability and safety awareness. Successful apprentices tend to share these attributes:
- Detail-oriented: The trade rewards precision, with close attention to measurements, angles and specifications
- Physical dexterity: Working with metal often involves bending, lifting and standing, and good hand-eye coordination makes the work easier
- Safety focus: Heavy machinery and potentially hazardous materials require strict adherence to safety protocols
- Mechanical aptitude: A natural feel for how materials behave and how tools work helps you progress quickly
- Problem-solving skills: Translating a drawing into a finished component often involves working out the most efficient sequence of cuts and folds
- Communication skills: Working alongside engineers, designers and other tradespeople, clear communication keeps projects on track
Career Pathways After Your Apprenticeship
A sheetmetal qualification opens doors across a wide range of industries and specialisations, including:
- HVAC and ductwork fabrication
- Architectural metalwork
- Marine and shipbuilding
- Aerospace and defence
- Food production equipment
- Custom fabrication and prototyping
- CNC and laser cutting specialisation
- Welding inspection and quality assurance (with further certification)
- Site supervision, project management and contracting
- Self-employment as a fabricator
Most sheetmetal workers find their niche within a few years of qualifying, picking up specialised skills and certifications that match the industries they enjoy working in.
Find a Sheetmetal Apprenticeship
Find a sheetmetal apprenticeship with MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees. We will employ and place you with the right host company where you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a qualified sheetmetal worker.
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A sheetmetal apprenticeship is a specialisation within fabrication trade engineering.
You might consider a Boilermaker Apprenticeship as well.
View the MIGAS Jobs Board to view current engineering trade apprenticeships.