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 GCSE's in English or Welsh and Maths at A*-C (Applications from students with the Foundation or Intermediate Welsh Baccalaureate are also welcomed).

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

Apprentices who follow the Shopfitting/Bench pathway can have a varied career and can progress to:

• Apprenticeship (Level 3) in Shopfitting - Bench

After gaining work experience there are also opportunities to progress into occupational work supervision, management or technical support areas.