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SOC 5212 Skilled metal, electrical and electronic trades

Metal plate workers, smiths, moulders and related occupations Salary

Median salary £37,035 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

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

Welding techniques (MIG, TIG, MMA) Technical drawing interpretation Precision measurement Quality inspection Safety awareness

Common industries

  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Oil and gas
  • Shipbuilding
  • Automotive

Data coverage

SOC code 5212
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2015–2025

Median Salary

£37,035

Mean Salary

£39,106

Jobs (000s)

N/A

Data Years

11 years

Salary Range (2025)

Median: £37,035
P10: --P25: --Median: £37kP75: --P90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Mid Level

£37,035

3-7 years

Salary Trend (2015-2025)

Nominal growth: +55.2%Real growth: +19.1%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£37,035

Full-time Only

£37,058

Full-time premium: +£23