How much does a metalworker earn?
Metalworkers manufacture, assemble and maintain metal structures and components – from steel construction and façades to gates, railings and stairs, commercial vehicle bodies or decorative metalwork. They cut, form, join and weld to drawing, install on site and ensure dimensional accuracy and occupational safety. Entry is typically via the dual apprenticeship as Metallbauer/-in (e.g. structural metalwork, metal design, commercial vehicle construction). Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements in the metalworking trade, welding qualifications, company size and specialisation. As a guide, qualified metalworkers in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,050–€3,700 gross per month; during apprenticeship around €980–€1,300 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. The apprenticeship column refers to the dual training as Metallbauer/-in; qualified means working metalworkers. Actual pay depends on collective agreements (e.g. metalworking craft trade), welding certificates, site/assembly allowances, employer, region, specialisation and experience and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
A metalworker plans and builds metal constructions in practice: workpieces are cut, formed, joined and welded, assemblies are aligned and mounted – in the workshop or on site. Everyday work includes technical drawings and parts lists, measuring and testing, occupational safety when welding and lifting, and coordination with customers, planning and assembly.
- Cut, form, join and weld metal components to drawing.
- Align, assemble and adjust constructions such as gates, railings, stairs, façade or steel elements.
- Read technical drawings and parts lists; check and document dimensions, welds and fit.
- Operate machines, welding equipment and lifting gear safely; follow occupational and fire safety rules.
- Coordinate with customers, planning and assembly; provide materials and aids.
- Carry out maintenance and rework on metal constructions and, where needed, instruct apprentices.
