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As a highly experienced national training and assessment provider, SB Skills Solutions has put together this short guide to the typical steel erecting course duration.

What is the typical duration of the course?

The first step to gaining your Level 3 Steel Erecting qualification is understanding how much time you need to dedicate to achieving this diploma. 

In most cases, this course can be successfully completed in just 12 months. 

Factors that affect completion time

While 12 months is the typical completion time, the exact steel erecting course duration can be affected by a number of different factors which we explore in more detail below.

Individual pace and dedication

Due to the nature of the Level 3 Steel Erecting qualification, in that it’s primarily carried out on the job, the course duration is heavily dictated by the learner’s pace and dedication to gathering the necessary evidence.

Prior experience and qualifications

If you have a higher level of relevant experience and qualifications, you may be able to complete the Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting in a shorter period than the typical 12-month duration by demonstrating existing competence to the assessor. 

Level of assessor support

A supportive and professional assessor can be essential for helping the learner to properly understand the course criteria and which evidence should be collected.

The pace at which an individual can achieve this diploma is therefore heavily influenced by the assessor’s availability to both offer support and conduct on-site visits.

What to expect after completing the diploma

Whether completing the diploma takes you the full year or a little longer, having a clear understanding of how the qualification can benefit your professional career before you get started is crucial.

After completing the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) qualification in Steel Erecting, the learner will then be awarded a Level 3 card as a combined Client/Contractor National Safety Group/Assuring Competence in Engineering (CCNSG/ACE) card.

With this card offering validation of the holder’s credentials, they’ll be able to move more freely between civil and engineering construction sites, increasing their career opportunities and earning potential.

Obtain your Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting

Ready to upskill and develop your career in the construction industry? 

The team of experienced instructors and assessors at SB Skills Solutions has all the necessary knowledge and resources to help you achieve your ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting.

Whether you’re an employer looking to equip your employees with valuable qualifications or an adult hoping to explore more career opportunities, there’s many benefits to obtaining this diploma.

To learn more about the course criteria for this steel erecting diploma or to discuss your specific training requirements with our training and assessment experts, please feel free to contact our team today.

You can start the conversation about furthering your career by giving us a call on 01695 558 420 or emailing your enquiry to info@sbskills.co.uk.

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To help you determine which steel erecting qualifications might be the most suitable for you based on your current skills, competence, and experience in the role, our knowledgeable team has pulled together this steel erecting diploma comparison.

Below, we compare the skills and benefits you can obtain from successfully completing a level 2 and level 3 Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) steel erecting diploma.

ECITB Level 2 vs Level 3

While both the level 2 and level 3 ECITB diplomas in steel erecting are vocational qualifications that provide industry recognition of the holder’s skills, knowledge, experience, and competence as a steel erector, they have their differences.

How can SB Skills help?

Now you have a clearer idea of which level diploma your existing skills and experience as a steel erector lend themselves to, why not receive industry recognition and increase your earning potential by taking the relevant ECITB steel erecting diploma with SB Skills Solutions?

Our team of experienced and qualified instructors can provide professional training and assessment services for:

∙ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting

∙ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting

With one of our instructors guiding you through the process, you’ll receive clear answers to any questions you might have, expert support with gathering evidence, and assessment services that work around your professional schedule up until final certification.

We can also support you with learning more about the various steel erecting career paths that an ECITB steel erecting diploma can help you to achieve. 

Whether you want to explore steel fabrication or fitting, we’re on hand to point you in the right direction.

To discuss your steel erector career with an experienced member of our team, please feel free to give us a call on 01695 558 420.

Alternatively, you can always email your enquiry to info@sbskills.co.uk.  

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Below, we explain some of the key career opportunities in the engineering and construction industry available to you if you achieve a Level 3 Steel Erecting diploma.  

What UK job opportunities exist for Level 3 Steel Erecting Diploma holders?

Unsure where a Level 3 Steel Erecting diploma could take your career? Fortunately, it can open doors to many key roles in the construction industry, including: 

Steel Erector

A steel erector (also known as a steelwork erector or ironworker) assembles and disassembles the metal frameworks for buildings and structures, such as industrial facilities and bridges. Their primary role is to fit together steel girders, pipework, and beams. 

Structural Steel Fitter

Also referred to as steel fitters, the main responsibility of tradespeople working in a structural steel fitter role is to prepare and fit steel components as per the blueprint specifications. They fabricate these items using hand tools, as well as riveting and welding machines. 

Steel Fabricator

The main role of a steel fabricator is to cut, shape, and manipulate raw steel materials into certain structures and products. Like steel fitters, they also take direction from blueprints and engineer designs, but they focus more on design and aesthetics of the raw steel than precision assembly.

Site Supervisor

If you want to explore managerial roles, then you may want to consider becoming a site supervisor.

Responsible for overseeing all the activities on a construction site, the supervisor is tasked with managing all workers and upholding site standards, efficiencies, and health and safety regulations.

Alternative Careers

Searching for more steel erecting jobs with a diploma?

With an Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) Level 3 Steel Erecting diploma under your belt, you may also be eligible for alternative career opportunities, such as specialised careers in health and safety, estimating, and steel draughtsmanship.

Complete your ECITB Level 3 Steel Erecting Diploma

If you want to unlock access to a wider range of career paths in the construction industry, speak to the expert team of instructors and assessors at SB Skills Solutions today about achieving your ECITB Level 3 Steel Erecting diploma.

As a trusted national training provider in the UK, our team of qualified instructors can guide you through the entire process with ease. Working to a timescale that fits around your schedule, we’ll visit you on-site to assess your competence as a steel erector and help you to collect relevant evidence.

Whether you require support choosing the right career path in the construction industry or want to learn more about our services, please feel free to contact our knowledgeable team today.

To reach out, simply give us a call on 01695 558 420. Alternatively, you can also email your enquiry to info@sbskills.co.uk.

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This leading skills organisation ensures there’s enough trained workers to meet industry needs in Great Britain.

This means there are many benefits to achieving your ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Construction: Lifting, Positioning, and Installing Structures, Plant, and Equipment – find out what’s involved in this steel erector course from the experts at SB Skills Solutions.

What is the ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting?

Designed for individuals involved in the handling and assembling of large-scale structures and equipment in various industrial settings, the ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting is a specialised vocational qualification that recognises the worker’s advanced expertise in this area.

It offers individuals validation of their expertise in lifting, positioning, and installing structures, plant, and equipment.

Before beginning the steel erector course, the learner must select one of two discipline pathways (either the Erecting or Rigging pathway).

At SB Skills Solutions, the ECITB Level 3 Steel Erecting qualification focuses on the erecting pathway, ensuring the worker possesses the necessary skills to safely, effectively, and competently install and dismantle structural steel frameworks, metal decking, and safety systems.

Based on National Occupational Standards (NOS), the objective of the ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Construction: Lifting, Positioning, and Installing Structures, Plant, and Equipment is to validate the individual’s expertise in the erection of large-scale structures.

Please note, this steel erector course doesn’t include the teaching of relevant skills and knowledge, just the assessment of existing expertise.

Benefits of completing this Level 3 diploma

Crucially, individuals who successfully complete this course will not only receive recognition of their expertise in this area, but they will also be able to pursue more advanced roles in this competitive area of the energy, manufacturing, or construction industry.

These opportunities for career progression are supported by the Assuring Competence in Engineering Construction (ACE) card scheme which helps to ensure engineering construction sites are operated by competent employees.

After registering for an ECITB qualification and obtaining a CCNSG (Client Contractor National Safety Group) Safety Passport, ECITB will give the individual an ACE red learner card, further demonstrating the holder’s competence.

Upon completion of the Level 3 Steel Erecting qualification, they will be awarded a Level 3 card as a combined CCNSG/ACE Card. This one card can therefore open doors for the holder, allowing them to more easily move between civil and engineering construction sites.

How to enrol and what to expect

Getting started with working towards your ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting is easy – simply reach out to a qualified training provider, such as SB Skills Solutions, or discuss your options with your employer.

If this steel erector course is determined to be the right route for you, it can be completed within just 12 months.

However, as this assessment is conducted primarily on the job, the timeline can be adjusted to suit your professional needs and the rate at which you can collect the necessary evidence.

From beginning to completion, a qualified and experienced assessor will work with you to ensure you understand the entire process and carry out on-site visits to support you with gathering evidence.

Your competence will be assessed using various methods including online knowledge tests and recorded technical discussions as well as practical skills evaluations in your workplace.

Achieve your ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting

With a helping hand from the qualified team of instructors and assessors at SB Skills Solutions, you can obtain your ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting without taking time away from your career or dedicating years of your life to one course.

We work with both employers and individuals, providing workers with the necessary recognition and qualifications they need to upskill, broaden their career prospects, and highlight their relevant skills, knowledge, and experience.

If you’d like to find out more about this steel erector course or have a question about our services, please don’t hesitate to speak to our team today.

You can either give us a call on 01695 558 420 or reach out via email to info@sbskills.co.uk.

The post What is the ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting? appeared first on SB Skills Solutions.

Before you make any big, life-changing decisions, it’s important to research the role thoroughly – what does it involve? What’s the average salary? What steel erecting qualifications are required?

All these questions need to be answered before you can make an informed decision about moving into this area of the construction industry.

That’s why the team at SB Skills Solutions has put together this comprehensive guide on the roles and responsibilities of a Steel Erector.

Alternatively, if you’re already working as a Steel Erector and are looking for ways to further your career in the engineering, construction, or manufacturing industry, the SB Skills team can help.

Reach out today to learn more about the training courses and qualifications that can boost your career prospects.

What is a Steel Erector?

Steel Erectors (also referred to as Steelwork Erectors or Ironworkers), are the individuals who assemble and disassemble the metal frameworks for buildings or structures, such as industrial facilities and bridges.

Essentially, they fit together steel girders, pipework, and beams to form the structural framework of a project. However, their role extends far beyond simple assembly.

What does a Steel Erector do?

Having a clear understanding of what a Steel Erector does day in, day out can help you to determine whether pursuing this career is likely to be a good choice for you.

Some of the main responsibilities of a Steel Erector include:

Assembling steel frameworks

As touched on above, the primary role of a Steel Erector is to carefully place and secure the steel load-bearing elements of a structure, such as girders, beams, and pipework. Securing these essential components in place typically involves welding or bolting, while moving them often requires cranes due to the significant weight of the steel elements.

Implementing technical plans

To effectively erect a structure, it’s crucial the Steel Erector knows how to follow technical plans and can collaborate with architects and engineers. This is because Steel Erectors rely on the directions from these professionals and their technical plans to implement the construction project plans as required.

Guiding steel loads into position

The Steel Erector duty of guiding steel loads into position while they’re being lifted combines their responsibility to erect a structure with their ability to carry out technical plans.

Whenever an element is being lifted, safety is of the utmost importance – especially when that component is big and heavy (such as steel beams).

Steel Erectors must therefore possess the necessary competence to effectively and safely plan and organise lifting operations.

Operate and work from mobile elevating work platforms

When carrying out their primary steelwork assembling responsibilities, it’s common for Steel Erectors to work on high rise buildings.

In order for Steel Erectors to safely access these heights, however, they must also be able to operate and work from mobile high access platforms (also known as aerial work platforms, aerial lifts, or cherry pickers).

Constructing metal decking

Metal decking is a type of corrugated sheeting commonly used to create a composite floor system or structural roof deck (with fewer supports than other methods) on many different construction projects.

In floors, a Steel Erector will install metal decking (steel sheets and rods) to form a lightweight platform with concrete slabs.

In roofs, a Steel Erector can construct a metal decking of steel purlins or beams to create a supporting layer for additional roofing materials.

Installing safety features

Many safety features are often required to make a structure suitable for people to use.

This includes everything from handrails and balustrades to guardrails and netting.

Steel Erectors are often responsible for constructing and installing these safety features throughout the building using tools, machinery, and vehicles.

Demolition and disassembling steelwork

Experts in assembling steel structures, Steel Erectors must also know how to dismantle these buildings, too.

Part of their demolition responsibilities, these structures must be carefully dismantled according to specific plans to help mitigate risks and allow for the recovery of materials, where desired.

Key skills and qualities of a Steel Erector

Wondering whether your professional qualities and current skillset match the traits needed to be a good Steel Erector?

Some of the most sought-after qualities and skills that a Steel Erector should possess include:

• Technical Skills: Ability to install and dismantle steelwork safely and efficiently.

• Construction Knowledge: Strong understanding of construction techniques and materials.
• Tool Proficiency: Skilled in using hand and power tools.
• Blueprint Reading: Ability to interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Safety Awareness: Knowledge of workplace health and safety regulations.
• Teamwork and Communication: Effective collaboration with engineers, crane operators, and other construction professionals.
• Physical Fitness: High level of stamina and strength for manual labour.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Ability to handle on-site challenges effectively.

How to become a qualified Steel Erector in the UK

If you’re considering becoming a qualified Steel Erector in the UK, then you’ll be pleased to hear that there are multiple pathways into this profession.

Simply carry on reading to discover some of the different pathways into steel erecting from the helpful team at SB Skills Solutions.

GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education)

Prior to taking a Steel Erector apprenticeship or college course, you’ll typically need to obtain some GCSEs – the exact number of which will vary depending on the type of option you want to pursue.

For example, if you plan on taking an advanced apprenticeship, at least three to five GCSEs are often necessary.

However, if you’re hoping to apply for an intermediate apprenticeship or level 1 or level 2 college course, between one to three GCSEs is often accepted.

You may want to consider taking subjects relevant to the professional responsibilities of a Steel Erector, such as english, maths, science, and design and technology.

Apprenticeship

If you’re eager to start earning a wage while you simultaneously train to become a Steel Erector, an apprenticeship may be the most suitable route for you. Apprenticeships provide valuable industry experience and lead to recognised qualifications.

Taking this route to steel erecting means you’ll spend the majority of your time gaining on-the-job experience and only 20 per cent learning away from the workplace.

Both intermediate and advanced apprenticeship options exist for those interested in becoming a steelwork erector.

A lower-level apprenticeship usually takes between 12 and 18 months to complete, whereas an advanced alternative typically takes longer to finish – often between 18 and 24 months.

The Structural Steelwork Erector Level 2 Apprenticeship or Engineering Construction Erector/Rigger Level 3 Apprenticeship combines hands-on training with classroom instruction.

A combination of on-the-job training and off-site study, this apprenticeship takes around three years to complete and requires the learner to have GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, in english and maths.

College courses

Several engineering and construction-related college courses can help aspiring Steel Erectors. Some relevant options include:

• Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills
• Level 2 NVQ in Steel Fixing Occupations (Construction)
• Level 2 Certificate in Engineering Operations

These courses provide theoretical knowledge but often require further on-the-job training.

Entry-Level Employment & On-the-Job Training

Many employers hire trainees without formal qualifications and provide on-the-job training. Gaining experience in construction or related fields (such as welding or scaffolding) can also be beneficial.

To make yourself more employable to these businesses, it’s important to develop some of the primary skills and qualities a Steel Erector needs, such as a strong knowledge of the construction industry and the ability to use hand and power tools.

You should also consider applying for the relevant Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent which will allow you to train and work on the majority of UK construction sites.

A prerequisite for obtaining a CSCS card, you will also need to pass the relevant Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) health and safety test to demonstrate your understanding of workplace safety standards.

Career opportunities for Steel Erectors

Once you gain experience as a Steel Erector, there are several ways to progress in your career:

• Site Supervisor or Manager
• Safety Supervisor
• Engineering Technician
• Welding or Scaffolding
• Crane or Plant Operations

Alternatively, with some additional training, you could branch out into a related area of the construction industry, such as welding or scaffolding. A Steel Erector can also increase their career opportunities by obtaining licences to operate plant equipment on site.

Committed to being a Steel Erector?

These skilled tradespeople can achieve industry-wide recognition for their skills, competence, and experience in this sector by successfully completing a relevant qualification.

At SB Skills Solutions, for example, we offer Steel Erectors the opportunity to take their ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board) Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting.

Individuals that successfully complete this qualification will receive formal recognition of their technical competence in this area.

Plus, upon registering for an ECITB qualification, those who possess a CCNSG (Client Contractor National Safety Group) Safety Passport will also be awarded an ACE (Assuring Competence in Engineering Construction) red learner card.

This ACE card highlights that the holder is in the process of being certified as a competent worker in this area. Once they’ve achieved the ECITB qualification, the holder will receive a Level 2 or 3 card (depending on the level of the diploma) as a combined CCNSG/ACE card.

This singular CCNSG/ACE card validates the holder’s credentials, allowing them to move between civil and engineering construction sites. As a result, obtaining these Steel Erector qualifications can increase the type and number of career opportunities available to the holder.

Industry Certification & ECITB Qualifications

Alternatively, with some additional training, you could branch out into a related area of the constriction industry, such as welding or scaffolding. A Steel Erector can also increase their career opportunities by obtaining licences to operate plant equipment on site.

At SB Skills Solutions, we offer Steel Erectors the opportunity to take their ECITB Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting to help you achieve industry-wide recognition.

Upon completion of an ECITB qualification, candidates who hold a CCNSG (Client Contractor National Safety Group) Safety Passport will also receive an ACE (Assuring Competence in Engineering Construction) card. This certification validates their technical competence and enhances job mobility between civil and engineering construction sites.

Why pursue steel erecting as a career?

From a healthy salary to professional development opportunities, there are many reasons that individuals choose steel erecting as a career.

Some of the primary reasons to consider a career as a Steel Erector in the UK include:

Playing a vital role in the construction industry

If you want to make a valuable contribution the construction and infrastructure industry, then becoming a Steel Erector is a great place to start. Steel Erectors aren’t only vital for building new, stable structures, but they can also improve the integrity of existing buildings, ensuring they last for many more years to come.

No formal qualifications required

Thanks to the many different pathways into this career, becoming a Steel Erector is an achievable goal regardless of your educational background. While GCSEs are recommended, equivalent qualifications are also considered, so it’s well worth discussing all your options with an advisor.

Career progression opportunities

As mentioned above in more detail, there are plenty of career progression opportunities to explore if you decide to become a Steel Erector.

Regardless of whether you’re looking to move into a supervisory role, undertake training to transition to a related area of construction, or receive formal recognition of your competence as a Steel Erector, pursuing a career in this role can open lots of doors.

Competitive Salary

While the potential salary shouldn’t be the only reason for taking on a particular job role, it can certainly help. So, what can you expect to earn as a Steel Erector in the UK?

According to Talent.com, the average salary for a UK Steel Erector is £39,000 per year (or £20 per hour). However, those working in entry-level positions typically earn £33,235 per annum, while more experienced workers can make up to £50,700 per year.

How SB Skills Solutions can help

Ready to advance your career as a Steel Erector?

SB Skills Solutions offers comprehensive training and assessment services for:

• ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting
• ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Steel Erecting

Our team of qualified instructors and assessors provides expert guidance, from evidence collection to final certification.

On hand to answer questions, assist with collecting evidence, and work to a timeline that meets your needs, you can rely on SB Skills Solutions to help you achieve recognised qualifications that validate your credentials.

Whether you’re an individual seeking career development or an employer looking to upskill your workforce, we’re here to help.

Call us at 01695 558 420 or email us at info@sbskills.co.uk for more information.

Take the next step in your steel erecting career today!

The post What does a Steel Erector do? appeared first on SB Skills Solutions.

As the employer-led skills body for the engineering construction industry (ECI) in Great Britain, obtaining your ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Erecting Steelwork Components (RQF) can open doors.

The knowledgeable team at SB Skills Solutions explains the benefits of enrolling for ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting and what you can expect.

What is the ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting?

Aimed at those who are either new to the engineering construction industry or seeking formal recognition of their skills, the ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting is a vocational qualification that certifies an individual’s technical competence and experience in this area.

It’s suitable for steel erectors, construction operatives, and anyone else involved in the installation, assembly, or dismantling of steel frameworks, including structures like staircases, handrails, balustrades, and metal decking.

Based on National Occupational Standards (NOS), the objective of this Level 2 Erecting Steelwork qualification is to provide learners with recognition that they possess the necessary competence to work safely, effectively, ethically and sustainably in this area.

Please bear in mind, however, that this Level 2 Steel Erecting qualification does not cover the skills and knowledge required to perform steel erecting on engineering construction structures, plant and equipment.

Benefits of Completing ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting

Obtaining this recognised diploma is ideal for those looking to further their career prospects or highlight their expertise in the energy, manufacturing, or construction sector.

Focusing on safety and quality, this ECITB Level 2 Steel Erecting qualification also ensures workers can operate competently on engineering construction sites through the Assuring Competence in Engineering Construction (ACE) card scheme.

Once a learner is registered on an ECITB qualification and has a CCNSG (Client Contractor National Safety Group) Safety Passport, they will be automatically issued by the ECITB with an ACE card – providing employers with even greater reassurance of the worker’s competence.

After the steel erector course has been successfully completed, the individual will be awarded a Level 2 card as a combined CCNSG/ACE Card. Essentially, this singular card validates their credentials and therefore broadens their career prospects even further by allowing them to move between civil and engineering construction sites.

How to enrol and what to expect

Enrolling in an ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Erecting Steelwork Components.is as straightforward as getting in touch with an accredited training provider, like SB Skills Solutions.

If the steel erector course is suitable for you, you can complete it within six to nine months, however, this timeline can vary according to your specific needs and job (how quickly you can gather the relevant evidence).

Throughout this process, you’ll be supported by an assigned assessor who will answer any questions you might have and visit you on-site to help with gathering evidence needed to demonstrate your competence.
In terms of assessment methods, it involves a combination of online knowledge tests as well as practical skills evaluations carried out in your workplace and recorded technical discussions.

Apply for your ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting

At SB Skills Solutions, we offer comprehensive and flexible assessment services to help you achieve your ECITB Level 2 Diploma in Steel Erecting in a way that works with your professional commitments. Obtaining this diploma, along with the ACE card, can significantly enhance career prospects within the engineering construction industry.

Regardless of whether you want to advance your own career in the construction industry or upskill an employee, you can rest assured that our team of assessors possess the relevant expertise, skills, knowledge, and professionalism to support you.

To learn more about this steel erector course or our assessment methods, simply get in touch today. Alongside reaching out online, you can also speak to us over the phone by calling 01695 558 420 or email your enquiry to info@sbskills.co.uk.

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