Metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations Salary
Median salary £37,035 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £37,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations, £37,058 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -5.0% versus the national average.
About this role
Metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations join, cut, shape and fabricate metal components and structures using specialist equipment and techniques. They work from engineering drawings to produce components that meet precise specifications for strength, finish and dimensional accuracy.
Key responsibilities
- Welding, cutting and fabricating metal components
- Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications
- Setting up and operating welding and fabrication equipment
- Inspecting finished work for quality and dimensional accuracy
- Following health and safety procedures for hot work and metalworking
Qualifications and entry routes
Typically requires an apprenticeship or NVQ Level 2/3. Coded welder certifications (BS EN ISO 9606) are essential for structural and pressure vessel work. CSCS or specialist site cards may be required.
Career outlook
Skills shortage in coded welding and specialist fabrication. Nuclear, offshore and infrastructure projects drive consistent demand.
Key skills
Common industries
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Oil and gas
- Shipbuilding
- Automotive
Data coverage
Median Salary
£37,035
Mean Salary
£39,106
Jobs (000s)
N/A
Data Years
5 years
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Mid Level
£37,035
3-7 years
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
All Employees
£37,035
Full-time Only
£37,058
Full-time premium: +£23
Metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations salary: common questions
How much do metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations earn in the UK?
Is £37,058 a good salary in the UK?
Have metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations 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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