Navy Rating · Engineering
SW Steelworker
Overview
A Steelworker fabricates and erects pre-engineered structures, reinforces concrete and steel, and performs welding and cutting operations. Steelworkers manage construction operations, deploy materials and equipment, direct structural crews, maintain combat readiness, and support combat, civil authority, and humanitarian or disaster recovery operations.
Core Skills
- structural steel fabrication and erection
- blueprint and construction drawing interpretation
- welding (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW)
- metal cutting and fitting
- concrete reinforcement and formwork
- rigging and material handling
- construction project coordination
- jobsite safety and OSHA compliance
- crew leadership and task delegation
- quality control and inspection
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Outlook
- Cost estimating software
- Inventory tracking software
- Project scheduling software
- Turtle Creek Software Goldenseal
Civilian Career Paths
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Mechanical Engineering
- Facilities Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) · Funded
- Certified Associate Construction Manager (CACM)
- Certified Robotic Arc Welding: Operator (CRAW: O) · Funded
Career Growth
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM) · Funded
- CWI by IIW Waiver
- Journey Level Steamfitter/Pipefitter
- Building Plans Examiner: B3 · Funded
- Structural Steel and Bolting Special Inspector · Funded
What the Work Involves
- Read specifications or blueprints to determine the locations, quantities, or sizes of materials required.
- Connect columns, beams, and girders with bolts, following blueprints and instructions from supervisors.
- Bolt aligned structural steel members in position for permanent riveting, bolting, or welding into place.
- Fasten structural steel members to hoist cables, using chains, cables, or rope.
- Verify vertical and horizontal alignment of structural steel members, using plumb bobs, laser equipment, transits, or levels.
Related Occupations
- Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers
- Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters
- Sheet Metal Workers
- Carpenters
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a high school diploma and some on-the-job training.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into SW. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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