Kitchen & Bathroom Fitter
Job Description:Kitchen and bathroom fitters install kitchens and bathroom suites in homes and businesses.
Job Category:What you will do:
On a typical day you could:
- use a range of hand and power tools
- measure out work areas
- rip out and dispose of old units and suites
- mark the location of pipes and cables
- measure and cut worktops, recesses and joints
- fit units and appliances
- tile walls and lay flooring
- clear away debris at the end of the job
- follow building regulations to meet health and safety
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- knowledge of maths
- knowledge of building and construction
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to work well with your hands
- physical skills like lifting, bending and carrying
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
Entry Requirements:
To become a kitchen and bathroom fitter, you don’t typically need specific qualifications, but certain subjects and skills can be valuable in preparing for this career. Kitchen and bathroom fitting involves installation and renovation work in residential or commercial spaces. Here are some relevant subjects:
- Design and Technology: Courses related to design and technology can help you develop practical skills in working with tools and equipment, understanding construction techniques, and interpreting technical drawings and plans.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are essential for measurements, calculations, and ensuring precise installations of cabinets, fixtures, and fittings.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computers can be beneficial for reading technical drawings, accessing design software, and communicating with clients and suppliers.
- Art and Design: Developing an eye for aesthetics, creativity, and attention to detail is crucial for creating visually appealing kitchen and bathroom spaces.
- Business Studies: A basic understanding of business principles can be valuable if you plan to work independently or start your own kitchen and bathroom fitting business.
- English: Effective communication skills are important for understanding and following instructions, working with clients and colleagues, and creating reports or documentation.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could take a college course, which would give you some of the skills needed to start in this job. Courses include:
- Level 1 Diploma in Construction
- Level 1 or 2 Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery
- Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing Studies
- Level 2 Diploma in Fitted Interiors
Apprenticeship
You could do an intermediate apprenticeship in joinery or tiling or an advanced plumbing apprenticeship.
Direct Application
You can apply for jobs if you’ve got experience and qualifications in a related construction trade like joinery, plumbing or tiling.
Working Hours and Environment:
Typically you could work 43 to 45 hours a week, occasionally including evenings or weekends.
You could work at a client’s home or at a client’s business.
Your working environment may be dusty and physically demanding.
Career Path & Progression:
You could find work with building companies, design agencies, kitchen and bathroom manufacturers and retailers. You could also set up your own business.
With further training, like in computer aided design (CAD), you could move into planning and installation design.
In a larger company, you could progress to become a business development manager, area sales coordinator, or project manager leading a team of designers and installers.