Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in New Jersey
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in New Jersey.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in New Jersey
Most workers complete a five-year apprenticeship in fabrication, HVAC ductwork, welding, architectural sheet metal, testing and balancing, blueprint reading, and safety.
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 New Jersey
The salary figure shown on this page represents the New Jersey 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 New Jersey is approximately $31,990 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in New Jersey
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 New Jersey
New Jersey sheet metal workers typically complete registered apprenticeship training and perform regulated HVACR work under a licensed Master HVACR Contractor.
- Complete approximately five years of classroom instruction and paid supervised field training.
- Study fabrication, welding, duct installation, architectural metal, blueprint reading, testing and balancing, and safety.
- Obtain EPA Section 608 certification before handling regulated refrigerants.
- Complete OSHA, fall-protection, lift, rigging, and welding certifications required by the employer.
- Ensure HVACR contracting work is supervised by a properly licensed Master HVACR Contractor.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in New Jersey
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Technical Institute – HVAC Technology | Union | View Program |
| Lincoln Technical Institute – HVAC Technology | Mahwah | View Program |
| Ocean County Vocational Technical School – HVAC/R | Toms River | View Program |
| Mercer County Technical Schools – HVAC and Building Systems | Trenton | 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 New Jersey
Registered Apprenticeship Program
Organization: New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in New Jersey
New Jersey does not issue a general employee sheet metal worker license. Businesses contracting for HVACR installation or service must hold a Master HVACR Contractor license. Municipal construction permits and federal refrigerant certification may apply.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in New Jersey
Pharmaceutical plants, hospitals, commercial towers, data centers, industrial construction, and HVAC upgrades should sustain strong demand for New Jersey sheet metal workers.
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 New Jersey?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in New Jersey is approximately $92,840 per year, or $44.64 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does New Jersey require sheet metal worker licensing?
Yes. New Jersey requires individuals performing regulated, non-exempt sheet metal worker work to hold the appropriate license or credential. Applicants should verify the current license category, experience, examination, and renewal requirements with New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs – State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors.
How long does it take to become a sheet metal worker in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey projects sheet metal worker employment to grow by approximately 6% from 2022 to 2032. 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
- New Jersey Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New Jersey Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- New Jersey Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. New Jersey Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs – State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors — Licensing authority. New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs – State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors