What does a Residential (Low Rise) Sheet Metal Installer (308R) do?

Low Rise Residential Sheet Metal Installers install sheet metal air-handling and ventilation systems in low-rise residential buildings without common air-conditioned areas. Specific work settings include self-contained single-family dwellings like detached, semi-detached, town, and linked homes with wood frame construction.

Job Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Organizes work for low-rise residential sheet metal installations
  • Prepares the worksite to ensure it is ready for the installations
  • Installs ventilation and main ducts
  • Follows safe working practices and procedures and environmental protection practices

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

  • Grade 10 is the legal minimum, though a high school diploma is generally required
  • While not mandatory, many employers require completion of 5,000-hour apprenticeship, including on-the-job and in-school training
  • Apprentices currently registered as Sheet Metal Workers (308A) can register as Residential (Low Rise) Sheet Metal Installers (308R) if they solely work in the residential sector

What's Your Future as a Residential (Low Rise) Sheet Metal Installer (308R)?

  • May be involved in new construction or retrofit installations; removal of old equipment could involve hazardous materials
  • Necessary to learn about and keep up with advances in energy/heat recovery processes and technology
  • Occupational safety knowledge is essential
  • Potential employers include building construction firms and plumbing, heating, and air conditioning firms

Wage Rate

Apprentice earnings are 40% of journeyperson for first period of 1,500 hours, 60% for second period of 1,500 hours, and 80% for third period of 1,500 hours. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $28.00 per hour.

Self-Rating

Residential (Low Rise) Sheet Metal Installer (308R)

Ask Yourself: Yes No
Do you have good manual dexterity, an eye for dimension and detail, and enjoy working with your hands/power tools?
Do you have good analytical and problem-solving skills?
Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines?
Can you lift 50lbs comfortably? Are you able to travel for work?
Are you good at visualizing, reading drawings, or creating a freehand sketch?
Would you enjoy interacting with site supervisors, customers, suppliers, co-workers and other tradespeople to get the job done?
Do you have excellent time management? Are you an organized person?


If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Residential (Low Rise) Sheet Metal Installer may be for you!

You might want to look at these similar trades as well;

  • Sheet Metal Worker
  • Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic
  • Draftsperson
  • Construction Millwright

Ready to get started?

Find your perfect job match