Fence erector

Fence erectors use a range of materials such as wood, wire or concrete. The work involves measuring the area of land and working out the amount of materials needed to put up the fence.

Work activities

Fence erectors use a variety of materials including wood, wire, metal and concrete. Fences are used to mark the boundaries of property and for safety reasons. Fence erectors can work on projects of any size from a garden to stretches of motorway. The materials that fence erectors use depend on the purpose of the fence.

Personal qualities and skills

As a fence erector, you should:

• Be physically fit, as the work can involve lifting or carrying heavy things.
• Have good practical skills.
• Be able to measure accurately.
• Have an awareness 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

The pay rates given are approximate. Fence erectors earn in the range of £18,000 per year, rising to £30,00.

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

Employers are specialist fencing companies and landscape gardening firms. Opportunities for fence erectors 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 there is an urgent need for more housing 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

An intermediate apprenticeship in the role of fencing installer will help you to get into this job. There are 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 4 GCSEs at grade 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.

Related careers

• Builder
• Construction labourer
• Road worker
• Scaffolder