Ceiling fixer

Ceiling fixers install ceilings in new and existing buildings. They work from platforms or scaffolding and use a variety of tools in their work.

Work activities

Ceiling fixers install ceilings in most types of new and existing buildings. They work from drawings, instruction sheets and site measurements. Suspended ceilings are installed for a variety of reasons, for example, to hide air conditioning systems or wiring. Common jobs might include shopping malls, banks, restaurants, nightclubs, shops, offices or surgeries. Fixers work from platforms or scaffolding, which they may put up and take down themselves. They wear a helmet and protective clothing. Ceiling fixers use spirit or water levels and lasers to make sure their framework is horizontal. They also use other tools such as hacksaws, metal cutters, knives, hammers and screwdrivers. They must be precise in their work so that the ceiling panels fit exactly. Ceiling fixers work closely with other construction craft workers, particularly joiners and electricians.

Personal qualities and skills

As a ceiling fixer, you’ll need:

• Good practical skills.
• Some ability in maths so that you can plan, measure and set out projects.
• To be an accurate worker.
• A head for heights.
• To be aware of the importance of health and safety in this industry.
• As you may have to travel around locally, a driving licence would be useful for this type of work.

This job might not be suitable for people who have skin conditions, such as eczema, or breathing complaints, such as asthma.

Pay and opportunities

Ceiling fixers earn in the range of £17,000 a year, rising to £34,000 a year, with experience.

Ceiling fixers work a 42-44-hour week. Overtime, including Saturday working, may be available.

Employers are specialist ceiling installation companies and building contractors. Opportunities for ceiling fixers occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

What’s happening in this work area?

Construction is an industry dominated by small firms. Employment levels are projected to grow steadily, as the demand for housing grows over the coming decades. The construction industry is one of the most male dominated industries. Women account for only one in 10 of all jobs. The industry is actively trying to change this. Full-time working remains the main method of working.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.

Entry routes and training

A level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeship as an interior systems installer is a great place to start. There are also various relevant qualifications available from organisations like City & Guilds and Edexcel. These courses may be in a more general subject area, such as construction.

Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS): For most building companies, you’ll need a CSCS card to work on site. These cards show that you are qualified to do the work you’ve been employed for. Go to the CSCS website for more details.

Apprenticeships will usually involve work- and college-based training. You will also receive training in subjects like health and safety.

In the construction industry, it is possible to work up from craft-level positions to managerial roles, such as construction site manager.

Qualifications

If you wish to enter this career through an apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in English and maths, although you may be able to complete these alongside your programme.

To enter a City & Guilds or Edexcel level 2 course in construction, you’ll usually need at least four GCSEs at grades 4 or below. However, individual centres may have different entry requirements. You may be able to get on to one of the courses without any qualifications.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

People with related skills, for example, gained as a building operative or in woodworking, have an advantage.

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