Sheet Metal Worker Career Guide in Oregon
Explore sheet metal worker salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Oregon.
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How to Become a Sheet Metal Worker in Oregon
Oregon sheet metal apprentices generally complete a five-year registered apprenticeship covering fabrication, welding, HVAC systems, architectural metal, service, testing and balancing, building information modeling, safety, and Oregon 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 Oregon
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Oregon 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 Oregon is approximately $12,900 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Sheet Metal Workers in Oregon
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 Oregon
Oregon sheet metal workers commonly complete a state-registered apprenticeship. Contractor and specialty licensing depends on the work performed and whether services are offered independently.
- Complete approximately five years of paid apprenticeship and related classroom instruction.
- Learn fabrication, welding, HVAC systems, architectural metal, testing and balancing, digital layout, safety, and codes.
- Meet Oregon apprenticeship standards for classroom attendance and on-the-job hours.
- Use properly licensed workers for regulated electrical, plumbing, boiler, or refrigerant-related tasks.
- Obtain an Oregon Construction Contractors Board license before independently offering construction services.
Sheet Metal Worker Training Providers in Oregon
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Portland Community College | Portland | View Program |
| Lane Community College | Eugene | View Program |
| Chemeketa Community College | Salem | View Program |
| Rogue Community College | Grants Pass | 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 Oregon
Portland Sheet Metal Apprenticeship
Organization: Sheet Metal Institute / SMART Local 16
Oregon Registered Apprenticeship — Sheet Metal Worker
Organization: Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries
Sheet Metal Worker Licensing Requirements in Oregon
Oregon does not issue a general individual sheet metal worker license. A business offering sheet metal or HVAC construction services must normally hold an Oregon Construction Contractors Board license. Electrical, plumbing, boiler, and refrigeration-related tasks may require additional trade credentials.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSheet Metal Worker Job Outlook in Oregon
Oregon’s current 2023–2033 occupational profile estimates approximately 2,592 sheet metal workers and about 276 total openings annually. Growth accounts for approximately 53 of those 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 Oregon?
The statewide median wage for sheet metal workers in Oregon is approximately $73,750 per year, or $35.46 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Oregon require sheet metal worker licensing?
No statewide occupational license is generally required for sheet metal worker workers in Oregon. 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 Oregon?
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 Oregon?
Oregon projects sheet metal worker employment to grow by approximately 20% from 2023 to 2033. 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
- Oregon Wages for Sheet Metal Worker (SOC 47-2211) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Sheet Metal Worker Wages
- Oregon Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Oregon Sheet Metal Worker Employment Trends
- Oregon Construction Contractors Board — Licensing authority. Oregon Construction Contractors Board