Insulation Workers, Mechanical

Apply insulating materials to pipes or ductwork, or other mechanical systems in order to help control and maintain temperature.

What you’d do

Measure and cut insulation for covering surfaces, using tape measures, handsaws, knives, and scissors.
Apply, remove, and repair insulation on industrial equipment, pipes, ductwork, or other mechanical systems such as heat exchangers, tanks, and vessels, to help control noise and maintain temperatures.
Select appropriate insulation, such as fiberglass, Styrofoam, or cork, based on the heat retaining or excluding characteristics of the material.
Fit insulation around obstructions, and shape insulating materials and protective coverings as required.
Determine the amounts and types of insulation needed, and methods of installation, based on factors such as location, surface shape, and equipment use.
Cover, seal, or finish insulated surfaces or access holes with plastic covers, canvas strips, sealants, tape, cement, or asphalt mastic.
Install sheet metal around insulated pipes with screws to protect the insulation from weather conditions or physical damage.
Read blueprints and specifications to determine job requirements.

Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one

Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Line and cover structures with insulating materials. May work with batt, roll, or blown insulation materials.
Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
Apply plasterboard or other wallboard to ceilings or interior walls of buildings.
Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one
Sheet Metal Workers
Fabricate, assemble, install, and repair sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings.
Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one
Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles
- Bright Outlook
- Rapid Growth
Apply blocks, strips, or sheets of shock-absorbing, sound-deadening, or decorative coverings to floors.
Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one
Pipelayers
Lay pipe for storm or sanitation sewers, drains, and water mains. Perform any combination of the following tasks: grade trenches or…
Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one
Roofers
- Bright Outlook
- Rapid Growth
Cover roofs of structures with shingles, slate, asphalt, aluminum, wood, or related materials.
Little to some preparation: usually a high school diploma or GED, though some jobs do not need one