Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in Minnesota
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Minnesota.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Minnesota
Minnesota sheet metal apprentices generally complete a five-year registered apprenticeship with paid jobsite training and technical instruction in fabrication, HVAC systems, welding, architectural metal, service, testing and balancing, safety, and 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 Minnesota
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Minnesota 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 Minnesota is approximately $12,120 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in Minnesota
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 Minnesota
Minnesota sheet metal workers generally complete a registered apprenticeship. State licensing depends on the scope of work, while some cities maintain additional competency-card or contractor requirements.
- Complete approximately five years of paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
- Learn fabrication, welding, HVAC ductwork, architectural metal, blueprint reading, service, testing and balancing, and safety.
- Meet Minnesota registered-apprenticeship hour and classroom requirements.
- Obtain high-pressure piping credentials if the work enters that separately regulated trade.
- Verify state bonding, business registration, municipal licensing, permit, and inspection requirements.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in Minnesota
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Hennepin Technical College | Brooklyn Park | View Program |
| Dunwoody College of Technology | Minneapolis | View Program |
| Dakota County Technical College | Rosemount | View Program |
| Minnesota State College Southeast | Red Wing | 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 Minnesota
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in Minnesota
Minnesota does not issue a general statewide sheet metal worker license. Mechanical contractors may be subject to the state mechanical contractor bond, business registration, permits, and code requirements. High-pressure piping work requires separate state licensing, while Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and other jurisdictions may require local competency cards or contractor licenses.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in Minnesota
Minnesota projects approximately 5% employment growth for sheet metal workers between 2022 and 2032. Employment is projected to rise from about 2,230 workers, with roughly 210 openings expected annually.
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 Minnesota?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in Minnesota is approximately $72,970 per year, or $35.08 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Minnesota require sheet metal worker licensing?
Minnesota does not use one uniform statewide licensing rule for all sheet metal worker work. Local requirements may apply, and applicants should verify the rules in the city or county where they plan to work.
How long does it take to become a sheet metal worker in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
Minnesota projects sheet metal worker employment to grow by approximately 5% from 2022 to 2032, with about 210 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
- Minnesota Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- Minnesota Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Minnesota Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Licensing authority. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry