Sheet metal workers Salary
Median salary £31,920 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £32,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For sheet metal workers, £32,207 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -18% versus the national average.
About this role
Smiths and forge workers heat and shape metal using hammering, pressing and forging techniques. They produce metal components, tools and structures from steel, iron and other metals in manufacturing, construction and artistic blacksmithing.
Key responsibilities
- Heating metal to working temperature using forges or furnaces
- Shaping metal using hammers, presses and forming tools
- Reading specifications and producing components to tolerance
- Maintaining forge equipment and tools
- Following health and safety procedures for hot work
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically enters through apprenticeship or on-the-job training. NVQ Level 2/3 in blacksmithing or metalworking. Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths supports the craft. Heritage skills qualifications available.
Career outlook
Niche but stable demand. Heritage blacksmithing and artistic metalwork offer specialist career paths. Industrial forging supports manufacturing demand.
Key skills
Common industries
- Manufacturing
- Construction metalwork
- Artistic and heritage blacksmithing
- Farriery
- Aerospace forging
Data coverage
Median Salary
£31,920
Mean Salary
£33,749
Jobs (000s)
8k
Data Years
11 years
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£27,268
0-2 years
Mid Level
£27,268
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
All Employees
£31,920
Full-time Only
£32,207
Full-time premium: +£287
Sheet metal workers salary: common questions
How much do sheet metal workers earn in the UK?
Is £32,207 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for sheet metal workers?
Have sheet metal workers salaries kept up with inflation?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).
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