Fencing Installer

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A career as a Fencing Installer

Fencing Installers put up, maintain and repair fences, gates and other barriers. They position fencing around the perimeter of an area, or along specified lines to cordon off one or more sections of land.

Fence Installers use concrete, timber, wire, plastic and metal to install and repair fences in a wide variety of situations, from fencing off gardens on housing estates to putting up a high-security and acoustic sound deadening fence around an airport. Installers work for fencing companies across a range of industries including construction, highway, rail, landscaping or agriculture companies.

Also known as: Skilled Installer, VRS (Vehicle Restraint Systems) Installer, Fence Erector

Skills/Knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge and experience of building and constructing fences

  • to work well with others

  • to operate the appropriate tools and equipment

  • physical skills such as mobility and co-ordination, and a good level of fitness and stamina

  • excellent attention to detail and the ability to work to plans

  • to be flexible and open to change

  • the ability to organise your time and workload

  • good communication and customer service skills

  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Overalls, gloves and safety boots, and use protective equipment (PPE) such as ear protectors and hard hats will be used when required. Fencing Installers who work on a construction site must hold the FISS (Fencing Industry Skills Scheme) CSCS (Construction Skills Card Scheme) Blue card, and if working on highways in Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS), will need to pass the NHSS10B VRS Foundation and Installer courses.

A driving licence and being able to pull a trailer can help you to find employment.

Salary

NB These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and the skills and experience of the employee.

£20,000
Typical salaries
range from
£30,000
Typical Hours

Around 35-40 hours per week. Fencing businesses can operate seven days a week, so employees often work flexible hours based around the jobs that need completing. In larger businesses, they are likely to work on a rota system with other members of staff. This will include early mornings, evenings and weekends. There may be opportunities for both full-time and contract work.

Day to Day
  • Read fence drawings and plans, and measure and lay out new fence lines

  • Conduct site inspections and work out materials needed to complete each installation

  • Remove or repair old fencing and gates

  • Level the ground for new fenced areas

  • Use hand tools or mechanical diggers to dig post holes and trenches

  • Position posts and fix them to a base

  • Cut panels to size and fix them to the posts

  • Check for gaps and other weaknesses in the fencing and correct these, if needed

  • Apply finishes like paint, staining and weatherproofing

Working Environment

Many jobs involve working outside in all weather conditions. conditions may be wet, muddy, very cold or very hot. The work can be heavy and there may be noise, fumes and dust from the machinery that is used.

Many Fencing Installers will work over a wide area so need to travel away from home.

Training Available

Training is an essential part of any job, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to do your job safely and correctly. It also helps to strengthen your current skill set and prepares you for the next stage in your career.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships help you build the experience and skills that employers want to see. No matter what stage you’re at, they’ll help set you up for a bright future. There are lots of ways to get involved.

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