Agriculture & Food

Steel Fixer

SOC 47-2171.00 · ESCO 9313 · OSCA 821732

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Role snapshot

Overview

Reads engineering drawings to cut, bend, and tie reinforcing steel bars and mesh before concrete is poured, ensuring structural integrity of foundations, walls, and slabs. This role is crucial for the safety and longevity of buildings, bridges, and other civil engineering projects.

Ensures the structural integrity and safety of concrete structures by precisely preparing and placing reinforcing steel, preventing collapse and extending the lifespan of infrastructure.

On the job

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to determine rebar requirements and placement
  • Cut and bend steel reinforcing bars and mesh to the specified shapes and sizes using manual and power tools
  • Position and tie reinforcing steel bars and mesh together using wire, clips, or welding to form cages or mats
  • Inspect finished rebar assemblies for compliance with quality standards and safety regulations
  • Operate machinery such as rebar cutters, benders, and forklifts safely on construction sites
Steel Fixer at work

Tools & technology

Rebar cuttersRebar bendersTying tools (nippers, rebar tiers)Measuring tapesGrindersWelding equipmentSafety harnesses and PPE

Average salary

$60K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$45K Bottom 10%
$75K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Typically requires an apprenticeship or vocational training in construction or a related trade. On-the-job training is common.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Foreman (Steel Fixing)
Construction Supervisor

CURRENT ROLE

Steel Fixer

Agriculture & Food

ADJACENT MOVES

Welder
Concrete Finisher
Construction Laborer
Apprenticeship Steel Fixing
General Laborer

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

R

realistic · RCI

Individuals who enjoy hands-on, practical work, following precise instructions, and understanding technical details often thrive in this role. It suits those who prefer working with tools and materials in a structured environment.

Personality characteristics

Meticulous

Pays close attention to detail when reading blueprints and fabricating steel to ensure structural accuracy and safety.

Practical

Prefers hands-on tasks and applying established techniques to solve problems directly on the construction site.

Composed

Remains calm and focused under pressure, especially when working with heavy materials and tight deadlines.

Collaborative

Works effectively with team members, supervisors, and other trades to ensure smooth project progression.

Task-focused

Concentrates on the job at hand, preferring to complete physical tasks efficiently and accurately.

Best for

  • Individuals who enjoy physical work and seeing the concrete results of their efforts.
  • Those who are detail-oriented and meticulous in following technical plans and safety standards.
  • People who thrive in a structured, team-based construction environment.

Watch out for

  • Requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and physically demanding tasks.
  • Work schedules can be variable, sometimes requiring occasional weekend work or extended hours due to project deadlines.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Steel Fixer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Site Safety Briefing
Rebar Cutting and Bending
Pre-assembly of Rebar Cages
Tue
Placement and Tying of Foundation Rebar
Blueprint Review and Material Check
Wed
Vertical Rebar Installation (Walls/Columns)
Coordination with Concrete Crew
Quality Inspection and Adjustments
Thu
Slab Rebar Layout and Tying
Tool Maintenance and Site Cleanup
Fri
Preparation for Next Section of Work
Team Debrief and Planning
Safety Equipment Check and Inventory
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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