Steeplejack

Job Description:

Steeplejacks climb high buildings and structures to repair them or make them safe.

Job Category:

Engineering & Construction

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What you will do:

You will carry out installation and maintenance work at great height. You could:

assemble ladders, scaffolding, mobile platforms or industrial harnesses
inspect structures for damage
replace roof glass
repair masonry
paint structures
dismantle or demolish tall chimneys or buildings
install lightning conductors on buildings
fit aircraft warning lights on tall structures

Skills:

You’ll need:

knowledge of building and construction
physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
knowledge of public safety and security
the ability to operate and control equipment
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools

As well as:

to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure (ambition/drive)
the ability to work well with your hands

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a steeplejack, there are typically no specific subjects required. Steeplejacks are professionals who specialise in the repair, maintenance, and construction of high structures such as chimneys, steeples, and industrial towers.

Here are some subjects that can be helpful:

Mathematics: Basic math skills are useful for measurements, calculations, and understanding engineering principles related to the construction and repair of tall structures.
Science: A foundational understanding of physics and materials science can be beneficial for understanding structural dynamics and the properties of materials used in steeplejack work.
Design and Technology: Courses related to design and technology can provide a foundational understanding of construction principles, materials, and structural considerations.
Physical Education (PE): Steeplejacks often engage in physically demanding work at heights, so being physically fit and having stamina is essential.

It’s important to note that becoming a steeplejack typically involves hands-on training, apprenticeships, and sometimes formal education or certification in areas like rope access and safety.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

an apprenticeship
applying directly

Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships that may be useful for this role include:

Lightning protection operative intermediate apprenticeship
Scaffolder intermediate apprenticeship
Structural steelwork erector intermediate apprenticeship
Installation and maintenance electrician advanced apprenticeship
Engineering construction erector rigger advanced apprenticeship

Direct Application
You can apply directly to become a steeplejack. Employers may ask for GCSEs, or equivalent, in maths, English, science or design and technology.

Experience in general construction, scaffolding, roofing or electrical work may give you an advantage.

If you want to work as a lightning conductor engineer, you’ll need maths skills and a basic understanding of electrical theory.

Working Hours and Environment:

Typically you could work 42 to 44 hours a week, occasionally including evenings, weekends, or holidays.

You could work on other structures, on a construction site, at a power station, on high rise buildings or at monuments and castles.

Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers, at height, dusty and physically demanding.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Career Path & Progression:

With experience, you could be promoted to supervisor or manager.

You could become self-employed and run your own business.