Fence Erector

Your Fit

Income

$52K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-0.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Fence Erector?

A Fence Erector is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in the installation, repair, and maintenance of fences and gates. They work with a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and vinyl, to create boundaries and enhance security.

Sample job titles:

Fence Builder, Fence Erector, Fence Installer, Fence Laborer

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Fence Erector.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Fence Erector earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Fence Erector.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$40K per year	$44K per year	$52K per year	$67K per year	$80K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $13K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Fence Erector do?

Work environment

Fence Erectors typically work outdoors in residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The job involves physical labor and can be performed in various weather conditions. It requires the use of tools and equipment for measuring, cutting, and assembling fencing materials.

Quick task list

Measures and lays out fence lines.
Digs postholes and sets fence posts.
Cuts and assembles gates and fences.
Maintains and repairs existing fences.
Adheres to safety standards and building codes.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Fencing: Specializing in fences for homes and private properties.
Commercial and Industrial Fencing: Focusing on security and larger-scale fencing projects for businesses and industrial sites.
Agricultural Fencing: Erecting fences for farms and ranches, often using specific materials like barbed wire.
Ornamental Metal Work: Specializing in decorative metal fences and gates.
Automated Gate Installation: Installing and maintaining motorized or automated gates.

Description

Fence Erectors play a crucial role in providing security, privacy, and aesthetic value to properties. The occupation involves both technical skills and physical labor. Fence erectors must be proficient in using a variety of tools and equipment and have a good understanding of construction principles to ensure that fences are properly aligned, stable, and meet the specific needs of the client.

The work requires precision and attention to detail, as well as the ability to follow blueprints and client specifications. Good physical fitness is essential, as the job involves heavy lifting, bending, and working in various postures. Fence Erectors also need to have a good understanding of different materials and techniques used in fence construction, allowing them to recommend the best options to clients.

Being a Fence Erector offers a career that combines outdoor work with the satisfaction of creating tangible, functional structures. It can be particularly rewarding for those who enjoy working with their hands and seeing the immediate results of their labor. The job also offers variety, as projects can range from small residential jobs to large commercial installations.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Creating functional and aesthetically pleasing boundaries for properties.
Working outdoors and in different locations.
The physical and technical challenge of fence installation.

You might make a good Fence Erector if you are...

Physically fit and enjoy hands-on work.
Detail-oriented, with good problem-solving skills.
Comfortable working with various tools and machinery.
Able to work independently and manage projects efficiently.
Interested in construction and outdoor work.

Pros:

Opportunity to work outdoors and in different environments.
Satisfaction from creating visible, tangible results.
Variety in daily tasks and projects.

Cons:

Physically demanding work with potential for injury.
Exposure to various weather conditions.
May involve irregular hours, depending on project deadlines and client needs.

How to become a Fence Erector

Typical education

Generally, no formal education beyond a high school diploma is required. Most skills are acquired through on-the-job training. Some fence erectors may attend vocational schools or participate in apprenticeship programs.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop or vocational training classes, especially those focusing on construction skills.
Mathematics for accurate measurements and layout calculations.
Physical education to maintain and improve physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in construction or carpentry clubs.
Engaging in sports or physical activities to develop stamina and strength.
Volunteering for community service projects that involve building or repair work.

Preparation after high school

Consider vocational training programs in construction or specialized fencing installation.
Seek apprenticeship opportunities with fencing or construction companies.
Gain experience with hands-on work in related fields like carpentry or landscaping.

More resources

American Fence Association (AFA) - Provides education, certification, and resources for fencing professionals.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - Offers detailed job descriptions and educational pathways for fence erectors.
National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) - Offers training programs and certifications in various construction trades.
Home Builders Institute (HBI) - Provides training and career development resources in the building industry.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.