A fence erector is a person who designs and builds various types of fences. The process of installing fencing can be quite labor-intensive, so the fence erector will need to be in good physical shape. No specific level of education is required in order to obtain a position as an erector, though on-the-job training will be necessary and many employers prefer to hire high school graduates. Basic math skills will be necessary, as will basic communication skills. Erectors will work outdoors in all sorts of weather conditions, and the physical demands of the job require a worker in good health.
The primary responsibilities of a fence erector can vary; some are responsible for the design and layout of a fence, while others are simply installers who perform the manual labor needed to erect the structure. The most experienced fence erector professionals will have specific knowledge about the best materials, layout techniques, building methods, and property boundary issues so he or she can make recommendations to a property owner. Some erectors specialize in a certain type of fencing, such as farmland fencing or decorative home fencing, while others may have a broader focus on all types of fences.
Some of the manual labor a fence erector will complete includes digging post holes, mixing and pouring concrete, lifting raw materials such as fence panels or slats, erecting fences and securing them in place using hand tools and power tools, repairing damaged fencing materials, replacing fences, using heavy machinery applicable to larger jobs, and measuring plots of land for accurate fence installment. Proper safety techniques must be adhered to, and a fence erector must wear proper safety equipment at all times while on the job. Such equipment may include eye protection, ear protection, gloves, steel-toed boots, and in some cases even hard hats and harnesses.
The process of installing a fence may involve cutting materials, which means an ability to mark angles and do simple to moderate math problems is very important. Other types of fencing materials are pre-cut, and the posts must be set at specific tolerances to ensure panels will fit properly. Math is again important for such installation procedures, as is a thorough knowledge of the different types of fencing materials available for use on various properties. Knowledge of the proper use of concrete will be important for heavier-duty fencing as well as for post holes.