Shopfitter
What is the work like?
As a shopfitter, you would make and install the fixtures and fittings in shops and stores, and build and fit shopfronts, doorways and entrances. You would also refurbish other premises such as banks, offices, restaurants and bars.
You would work closely with other tradespeople like tilers, electricians and plumbers on most jobs, and your duties could include:
- marking out and cutting wood, metals, glass and plastics to make units and fittings in a workshop
- estimating material quantities and costs, and preparing tenders and quotes for jobs
- preparing design plans for a contract
- measuring and setting out jobs on site, and installing the fixtures and fittings.
With experience, you could work as a workshop manager or site supervisor with responsibility to make sure that your team's work meets quality standards.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To work as a shopfitter, you would normally need a background in one of the construction trades, for example carpentry and joinery. For details about entry requirements for specific trades, see the job profiles for Carpenter/Joiner, Wood Machinist, Tiler and Plasterer.
You may be able to start as an apprentice with a shopfitting or building firm. To be eligible, you will need GCSEs in subjects such as maths, English and design and technology. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
Alternatively, you could study for general college-based qualifications in construction. These would give you some of the skills needed for the job, although employers may still want to see some work experience. Relevant courses include:
- Edexcel Introductory Certificate/Diploma in Construction
- Edexcel Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment
- City & Guilds Basic Skills in Construction (6217)
- Intermediate/Advanced Construction Award.
See ConstructionSkills and the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) for details about shopfitting training and qualifications. The construction trades are also being promoted as a career choice for women through the Know Your Place campaign.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working, you would continue to train on the job. You could take the NVQ in Wood Occupations (Shopfitting Bench Work or Shopfitting Sitework) at levels 2 and 3.
The Shopfitting Independent Training Forum offers specialised training, including contract law, estimating and site management. You can find more details through the Training section of the NAS website.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)
Many building contractors now insist that you have a CSCS card to work on their sites. The card is proof of your skills and competence. To get your card you must:
- pass a health and safety assessment
- have an NVQ or equivalent qualification.
If you are working without qualifications, you may be able to use On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) or Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA) to get your NVQ and card. Contact CSCS or SkillsDirect for further details.
Where can I go for more information?
Tel: 0870 850 5262King's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6RH
Tel: 01485 577577
Warlingham
Surrey
CR6 9HA
Tel: 01883 624961
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Related profiles...
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are from £13,500 to £16,000 a year.
- Experienced shopfitters earn between £17,000 and £21,000 a year.
- With supervisory responsibilities, this could rise to £26,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work 39 hours a week, with overtime often available. In some cases, you may have to work through the night, especially on re-fits where the work needs to be done with minimal disruption to a business.
Your job would be indoors in a construction workshop or on site. If you work as a joiner, machinist or metal fabricator, you would need to wear protective clothing like safety footwear, goggles and ear defenders.
If you work as an installer on site, you may be expected to travel and to work away from home on some contracts.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good practical skills for using tools
- the ability to work quickly and pay close attention to detail
- good numeracy skills to take measurements and work out quantities
- the ability to follow technical drawings, plans and written or spoken instructions
- an awareness of safety
- a reasonable level of fitness
- good teamworking skills
- a commitment to keep up to date with Building Regulations.
You will need draughting and IT skills if you work in design or estimating.
What opportunities are there?
You would usually work for specialist shopfitting companies. The demand for skilled tradespeople in construction is increasing, particularly in the wood occupations, so you could also find opportunities in other areas of the industry. Check your local press and job centres for vacancies. You could also contact shopfitting companies directly. You will find a list of them on the NAS website.
With experience, you could move into supervisory jobs, such as chargehand or foreperson and, with further training, works manager, contracts manager or shopfitting designer.
If you have the right experience and contacts, you may be able to set up your own shopfitting business.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in a new window)
Construction Jobs Network
bConstructive
Jobcentre Plus
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