Steeplejack

Introduction

Steeplejacks renovate, repair and maintain tall structures. They use a variety of tools and materials to carry out their work. They must follow strict safety regulations.

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Work Activities

Steeplejacks renovate, repair and maintain tall structures such as spires, monuments, towers and industrial chimneys. They work at great heights using scaffolding, ladders and ropes.

Tasks involve replacing or repairing damaged concrete, brickwork, stonework and roof tiles. The job may also involve replacing damaged glass, installing lightning conductors, putting up steel chimneys, welding metals and painting.

For most jobs, steeplejacks work with a partner for safety reasons. Steeplejacks must wear protective clothing, including a safety helmet, protective footwear and other items such as ear-protectors and gloves.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a steeplejack you must be physically fit, with plenty of stamina. The work involves a lot of bending, lifting and stretching. You need a good head for heights.

You must follow safety rules and procedures at all times and you must take extreme care when working at great heights.

You need to be well organised as the work needs to be carefully planned and finished within a set time. You will usually need a driving licence. You will also need basic electrical skills.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Steeplejacks earn in the range of £300 - £400 a week, rising to £480 - £530. Top earners can make around £630 a week.

Steeplejacks work a 39-hour week. Overtime, including Saturday working, may be available.

You may work for specialist firms of steeplejacks and chimney builders throughout the UK. Some steeplejacks are self-employed and work independently.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you are physically fit, with related skills and abilities in the construction industry (for example, if you have scaffolding or building operative skills), you may be considered for training.

• 70% of steeplejacks are self-employed.
• 6% work part-time.
• 4% have flexible hours.

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