Fence installer

In this job, you could:

• remove old fencing
•  read fence drawings and plans
•  measure and lay out new fence lines
•  level the ground where fencing is going to go
•  use hand tools or mechanical diggers to dig post holes
•  position wooden, concrete or metal posts and fix them to a base
•  cut panels to size and fix them to the posts
•  apply finishes like paint, staining and weatherproofing
•  repair fences and gates

• knowledge of building and construction
• the ability to work well with others
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• customer service skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

For fencing on construction sites or on Highways Agency contracts, you'll need a Fencing Industry Skills Scheme/Construction Skills Certification Scheme (FISS/CSCS) card.

You may need a driving licence for some jobs.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

You could:

• become a lead installer or foreperson
•  move into contract management or fencing sales
•  set up your own business