Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in Arkansas
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Arkansas.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Arkansas
Arkansas sheet metal workers commonly qualify through a four- or five-year apprenticeship, technical HVAC program, welding program, or employer-sponsored training. Instruction covers fabrication, welding, duct installation, industrial ventilation, safety, plans, and mechanical codes.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Sheet Metal Worker Salary in Arkansas
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Arkansas median wage for sheet metal worker workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $60,850, the median wage in Arkansas is approximately $18,210 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in Arkansas
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONSheet Metal Worker Training Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas sheet metal workers generally enter the trade through a registered apprenticeship, technical-college program, or employer-sponsored training pathway.
- Complete approximately four to five years of paid apprenticeship or equivalent supervised training.
- Learn layout, fabrication, welding, HVAC ductwork, industrial ventilation, blueprint reading, and OSHA safety.
- Obtain employer-required welding, lift, rigging, refrigerant, or equipment certifications.
- Work under an appropriately licensed HVAC/R contractor when performing regulated HVAC or refrigeration work.
- Obtain the applicable HVAC/R and contractor credentials before independently contracting for regulated projects.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in Arkansas
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas–Pulaski Technical College | North Little Rock | View Program |
| Arkansas State University–Beebe | Searcy | View Program |
| Northwest Arkansas Community College | Bentonville | View Program |
| University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton | Morrilton | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESSheet Metal Worker Apprenticeship Programs in Arkansas
Arkansas Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: Arkansas Department of Commerce
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in Arkansas
Arkansas does not issue a separate occupational license to ordinary sheet metal employees. HVAC and refrigeration contractors must hold the appropriate Arkansas HVAC/R license, while larger construction contracts may also require an Arkansas contractor license.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in Arkansas
Arkansas projects employment to grow from 890 sheet metal workers in 2022 to 940 in 2032. This represents 6% growth and approximately 90 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the sheet metal worker salary in Arkansas?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in Arkansas is approximately $42,640 per year, or $20.50 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Arkansas require sheet metal worker licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for sheet metal worker workers in Arkansas. Local jurisdictions, employers, or specific work scopes may still impose requirements, so applicants should verify current rules before beginning work.
How long does it take to become a sheet metal worker in Arkansas?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 4–5 Years Apprenticeship, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are sheet metal workers in demand in Arkansas?
Arkansas projects sheet metal worker employment to grow by approximately 6% from 2022 to 2032, with about 90 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Arkansas Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Arkansas Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- Arkansas Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Arkansas Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing — HVAC/R Licensing Board — Licensing authority. Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing — HVAC/R Licensing Board