Ceiling fixers fit suspended ceilings in buildings to conceal pipework, wiring, and heating or air conditioning systems. The majority of the work is on new or refurbished commercial developments such as offices, shops and factories. They also work on public sector construction projects, for example, new hospitals and schools.

Working from technical drawings, written instructions and site measurements, ceiling fixers:

• set out, cut and fix a framework of aluminium supports to the underside of the floor or to the existing ceiling
• use spirit, laser or water levels to check the framework is horizontal
• fit the ceiling panels to the framework
• cut and shape the panels to fit around lights and fittings.

Ceiling fixers use a variety of hand and power tools, and normally work from access platforms, ladders or scaffolding.

Ceiling fixers may fit insulation materials in the ceiling space before installing the panels. Some ceiling fixers also install relocatable dry lining wall and floor partitions, and fit raised flooring.

Hours and Environment

Ceiling fixers work 39 hours a week. Overtime, including weekends may be available.

Their work is mainly indoors and includes working at heights, sometimes in cramped and confined spaces. They wear protective hard hats, overalls and boots.

Ceiling fixers travel from site to site, so a driving licence will be useful.

Skills and Interests

To be a ceiling fixer you need:

• to be able to understand technical plans and instructions
• good practical skills, with the ability to work accurately and neatly
• a good standard of numeracy for measuring areas and calculating amounts of materials
• to be physically fit
• the ability to work in a team or alone
• good time management skills
• an awareness of health and safety issues.

Entry

There are no set entry requirements, with most people employed as trainees. Some employers may look for some GCSEs/S grades, such as English, maths, and design and technology, or equivalent vocational qualifications such as Edexcel Introductory Certificate/Diploma in Construction. 

There may be the option to undertake a an Intermediate or Advanced Construction Award at a further education college. Check with ConstructionSkills and local colleges for details.

A common route for young people is to train as an apprentice. Most apprentices start at 16 to 19, but entry may be possible up to 24 (see Training section for contacts).

A background in more general construction as a labourer or trades person, such as a joiner, may be helpful in gaining an initial position with a company, although this is not essential.

ConstructionSkills has information on construction careers and qualifications. See their website in Further Information.

Training

You normally receive on-the-job training with day or block release at local colleges or training providers.

If you are employed in the sector, the NVQ/SVQ in Interior Systems is available at Level 2.

You complete mandatory units covering estimating, planning and setting out projects, calculating areas and amounts of materials, and implementing and maintaining health and safety guidelines. You then take optional units depending on which area you are working in. These include:

• Ceiling Fixing
• Relocatable Partitioning
• Dry Lining
• Access Flooring.

Apprenticeships may be available for those under the age of 24. In England these are currently Apprenticeships (level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3). To find out more about these, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Apprenticeships may be different in other areas. For further information see Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland

Opportunities

Companies that specialise in fitting suspended ceilings in commercial premises employ the majority of ceiling fixers. Some ceiling fixers are self-employed. There may be prospects for promotion to supervisory level then construction management.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Trainees earn between £7,000 and £13,000 a year, depending on the stage of training.
With qualifications, ceiling fixers can earn between £16,000 and £20,000.
Experienced ceiling fixers may earn up to £25,000 a year.

Overtime, shift allowances and bonuses will supplement income, while self-employed ceiling fixers negotiate their own rates.

Further information

Tel: 0870 417 8777 Bircham Newton
King's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6RH
Tel: 01485 577577 Tel: 0870 8505262