What's involved

A shopfitter makes and installs woodwork and metalwork in shops, banks, offices, restaurants and bars. They also work closely with tilers, electricians and plumbers on most jobs.

Their duties include marking out and cutting wood, metals, glass and plastics to make units and fittings in a workshop. They also estimate material quantities and costs and prepare tenders and quotes for jobs.

Many commercial premises appoint shopfitters and interior contractors to make, install and oversee the installation of bespoke furniture and shop fittings.

Skills Required

You'll need good practical skills for using tools and be able to work quickly while paying close attention to detail. Good mathematical skills will help as you have to take measurements and follow technical drawings and plans.

A good level of fitness is also required and you need to follow safe working practices.

Qualifications required

There are no formal requirements although it would help to have Standard Grades in English and Maths.

Salary ranges

(This is a guide to the average salary a fully qualified and experienced person might expect to get.)

£16,000 - £30,000

Progression Route

If you decide to progress into supervisory, design or management roles there are opportunities to study for:

• Technical, supervisory and  management SVQ qualifications (SCQF Levels 6 to11)
• HNC Construction or a number of other built environment HNC/HND qualifications (SCQF Levels 7 or 8)
• Degree level qualifications in a number of construction disciplines (SCQF Levels 9 to 12)