| Quick Facts: Sheet Metal Career in Opelika, AL | |
| Base Requirement | High school diploma or GED [^13] |
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years, 8,000 hours of combined training |
| Entry Pay | $19.07/hour with benefits through Local 48 [^16] |
| Job Growth | 240 annual openings projected in Alabama [^28] |
| Median Salary | $36,538/year in Alabama [^23] |
If you're looking to launch a career in the sheet metal trade in Opelika, AL, your journey begins with a structured apprenticeship program that combines hands-on experience with classroom instruction. These programs, which typically last 3 to 5 years, prepare you for work in HVAC, roofing, and industrial machinery fabrication. The Local 48 apprenticeship offers an entry wage starting at $19.07/hour, health benefits, and a defined benefit pension 1. With the Alabama Talent Triad and various local programs supporting trades, Opelika is positioned as a growing hub for skilled metal workers. For those ready to begin their journey, Gild connects apprentices and job seekers with local opportunities in the metal fabrication and HVAC industries [source].
Before diving into training requirements, it's essential to understand what a career in sheet metal entails. Sheet metal workers in Opelika fabricate and install air-conditioning ducts, rain gutters, downspouts, roofing, siding, and industrial machinery components 2. This demanding role combines shop work with on-site installations, often requiring physical stamina and attention to detail.
Key responsibilities include:
This trade offers diverse work environments including commercial construction sites, manufacturing facilities, and HVAC shops, making it an adaptable career choice for those looking for hands-on work with metal fabrication.
Yes, sheet metal contractors in Opelika (as part of Alabama) must obtain a state license through the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors (LBGC). This applies to anyone bidding on jobs or performing sheet metal work valued at more than $50,000 3.
Licenses must be renewed annually, with fees at $200 for prime contractors and $100 for subcontractors 3. While local Opelika requirements mirror state standards, this licensing ensures professional quality and safety in the field.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a registered apprenticeship is the primary pathway into sheet metal work. These programs combine 8,000 hours of on-the-job training (approximately 3-5 years) with classroom instruction 2.
| Apprenticeship Option | Duration | Entry Requirements | Location Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Union 48 | 4-5 years | High school diploma/GED | Opelika (3+ years commute) |
| Alabama Talent Triad | 2-5 years | High school diploma/GED | Statewide with local prep |
| Ready to Work Program | 8 weeks | Basic skills assessment | Opelika-based |
To find an apprenticeship:
To become a sheet metal worker in Opelika, you must meet specific entry requirements:
While not mandatory, completing a pre-apprenticeship program can give you an edge. The Opelika Ready to Work program offers:
This prepares candidates for the apprenticeship selection process and job placement.
To work as a professional sheet metal worker in Opelika, completing a U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeship is strongly recommended 2. Apprenticeship programs typically last 4-5 years, combining 8,000+ hours of on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
During your apprenticeship:
To find an apprenticeship:
During your apprenticeship, you'll learn practical skills from experienced journeymen while gradually taking on more complex tasks as your training progresses.
While working toward journeyworker status, consider pursuing:
These additional credentials make you more versatile in the job market and qualify you for specialized roles.
After completing your apprenticeship, most sheet metal workers in Alabama become journeyworkers through their union or employer. At this stage:
For those considering entrepreneurship, journeyworker status is required before bidding on licensed work.
The sheet metal trade in Opelika and Alabama is positioned for continued demand despite national growth projections of only 2% through 2033 5. Alabama projects 240 annual job openings for sheet metal workers 3, with current listings on ZipRecruiter showing 42 HVAC sheet metal jobs available in Opelika 6. This reflects the ongoing need for HVAC installation specialists in both residential and commercial building sectors.
| Location/Scope | Average Hourly Rate | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Opelika/AL (Non-Union) | $16.88–$20.32 6 | ~$35,100 5 |
| National (Estimated) | $22–$27 7 | ~$55,000 7 |
| Union Positions | $30–$45+ 7 | $60,000–$90,000+ 7 |
The disparity between union and non-union wages highlights the value of pursuing opportunities with the SMART Union Local 48 in Central and Northern Alabama.
This salary progression shows how the trade rewards skill development and experience, with unionized workers potentially earning $87,500 in year one, rising to $120,000–$200,000 in 4-5 years 3.
Starting a career as a sheet metal apprentice in Opelika, AL opens opportunities in construction, HVAC, and manufacturing industries. Whether you're fresh out of school or changing careers, following a structured pathway into this trade positions you for long-term financial security. With apprenticeship programs like Local 48 offering excellent starting wages and benefits, now is an ideal time to enter this skilled profession. As your skills grow, so will your career potential with opportunities expanding into supervision and management.
To begin your journey into the sheet metal trade, Gild connects apprentices with companies across multiple skilled trades. Search for current sheet metal apprenticeships and job opportunities here.
https://www.smart-union.org/sm-local-48/become-a-member/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
Sheet Metal Careers Oxford AL 2025 High Demand and Growth | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3
Sheet Metal Trade Jobs 2025 Columbus AL Get Hired Now | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Hvac-Sheet-Metal/-in-Opelika,AL ↩ ↩2
Sheet Metal Careers Oxford AL 2025 High Demand and Growth | Gild ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
