If you're ready to build a high-paying, stable career in a growing industry, becoming a sheet metal worker in Phoenix, AZ, offers great potential. With an expected 1.3% job growth between 2025 and 2028, and average annual wages reaching $63,619, now is an excellent time to start your professional journey 12. There are also opportunities in high-tech manufacturing, HVAC, and major construction projects—at facilities like TSMC's microchip plant, currently employing over 400 sheet metal workers 3.
You’ll typically begin by enrolling in an apprenticeship program, such as the one offered through the Arizona Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, which lasts five years, costs $10,563, and includes both hands-on work and formal studies at GateWay Community College 45. You may also receive competitive wages during training, with some apprentices earning as much as $35.59/hour including benefits 6.
To connect with these opportunities, Gild offers a centralized platform where you can explore job listings and apprenticeships in Phoenix directly from employers.
Sheet metal workers fabricate, install, and maintain metal products and systems used in buildings, HVAC systems, industrial plants, and commercial infrastructure. This includes ductwork, roofing, siding, insulation, and industrial equipment.
Skills you’ll need include:
In Phoenix, opportunities are expanding in both residential construction and high-tech manufacturing, such as the major growth seen at TSMC and Intel facilities 63.
While general employment as a sheet metal worker does not require a license, working on regulated systems like HVAC or mechanical systems in public or commercial buildings often requires official certification.
Key certifications include:
Check eligibility and deadlines for certifications through the City of Phoenix Licensure Office for initial licensing requirements.
One of the most direct paths into the sheet metal trade is through structured apprenticeship programs. Institutions in Phoenix—like the Arizona Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (AZSMJATC)—provide immersive job training and education that spans five years total 45.
The AZSMJATC offers:
For those seeking college credit, the Construction Trades: Sheet Metal AAS degree at GateWay Community College is a direct match for apprenticeship curriculum 8.
Additional opportunities:
| Apprenticeship Type | Average Starting Wage | Completion Time |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona Sheet Metal Joint Apprenticeship | $35.59/hour (with benefits) | 5 years |
| Union Non-Job-Site Advanced Training | $28–$33/hour with union benefits | 5 years |
| Commercial Contract Fabricator Apprentice | $15–$26/hour | 4–5 years |
Becoming a licensed and employable sheet metal professional includes the following key actions:
You must be:
Additional skills like basic welding and blueprint reading help make you competitive during the apprenticeship application process 9.
Many employers will accept on-the-job training without formal education, but enrolling in core sheet metal courses at GateWay Community College enhances immediate employability. These programs often offer credit toward apprenticeships 8.
Apprenticeships usually take 4–5 years to complete and combine classroom instruction and real-world experience.
Popular certifying institutions include:
Alternatively, you can apply directly through employers on platforms like:
After completing an apprenticeship, you may qualify for:
These high-level roles often offer higher hourly rates, health benefits, and access to union wage upgrades 6.
Phoenix’s sheet metal job market offers above-average pay and long-term stability. Here's a snapshot of economic opportunity in the field:
| Metric | Phoenix/Maricopa County | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Wage | $63,619 | $60,850 |
| Job Growth (2025–2028) | 1.3% | 2% average overall from 2023–2033 |
| Union Hourly Pay | $22.26/hour with benefits | Varies by region |
| Non-Union High Pay | Up to $23.45/hour | Sometimes exceeds union |
Top sectors increasing job demand include:
Ready to start your path? Here’s how to land your first sheet metal job in Phoenix:
Starting a career as a sheet metal worker in Phoenix, AZ can lead to long-term income growth, job security, and access to cutting-edge industries. Whether you’re fresh out of school or changing careers, following these steps ensures you’re prepared for the work opportunities ahead. As major hires continue at tech and construction sites across Phoenix, thousands of job openings remain 3.
Don’t miss your chance—begin by exploring apprenticeships and job listings directly through Gild’s job platform.
https://arizonaatwork.com/sites/default/files/2024-05/2025-2028%20MCWDB%20Local%20Plan.pdf ↩
https://inbusinessphx.com/economy-trends/trending-in-2025-forecasting-strengths-and-challenges-in-our-key-economic-sectors ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.azjobconnection.gov/etp/public/apprenticeship_programs/10372 ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.azjobconnection.gov/etp/public/apprenticeship_sponsors/14371/apprenticeship_programs ↩ ↩2
https://arizonaatwork.com/job-market-trends/occupation-projections ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://www.gatewaycc.edu/degrees-certificates/sheet-metal-journeyworker ↩ ↩2
https://pipelineaz.com/careers/740-sheet-metal-workers ↩ ↩2 ↩3
