Between backyards and around businesses, fence erectors put up fences to divide properties, contain animals, and create privacy or security. Fence erectors typically have the skills needed to put up and repair a variety of fences, from white picket fences to chain link topped with barbed wire. They often start by discussing customers’ needs and preferences, and providing cost and project time estimates. Fence erectors measure and lay out fence lines, dig trenches and post holes, make rails, and assemble gates. The variety of materials means fence erectors perform basic carpentry and welding, as well as mixing and pouring concrete. On a daily basis, these workers use hand and power tools that can be hazardous, so fence erectors wear safety equipment and protective clothing and must follow safe practices to prevent injuries and accidents on the work site. Fence erectors typically work 40 hours or more per week. Positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.
What they do:
Erect and repair fences and fence gates, using hand and power tools.
On the job, you would:
Establish the location for a fence, and gather information needed to ensure that there are no electric cables or water lines in the area.
Set metal or wooden posts in upright positions in postholes.
Measure and lay out fence lines and mark posthole positions, following instructions, drawings, or specifications.
Business
customer service
management
Engineering and Technology
building and construction
design
Transportation
movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Basic Skills
keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Hand and Finger Use
hold or move items with your hands
keep your arm or hand steady
Endurance
exercise for a long time without getting out of breath
Physical Strength
use your lower back and stomach
lift, push, pull, or carry
Controlled Movement
use your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Dependability
Initiative
Achievement/Effort
Leadership
Persistence
You might use software like this on the job:
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD
Cutlist Plus fx
Project management software
Maxwell Systems American Contractor
Software Design Associates Computer Fencing System CFS
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
high school diploma/GED or no high school diploma/GED usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
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