Chimney sweep

In your day-to-day tasks you could:

• inspect the chimney or flue before cleaning
•  protect the surrounding area so that soot doesn't fall into a room
•  use brushes on extending rods to clean the chimney or flue
•  remove soot and debris using an industrial vacuum cleaner
•  use equipment such as smoke-generating machines and CCTV cameras to examine the chimney
•  advise customers on the safety of chimneys, appliances and flues

• the ability to use your initiative
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• the ability to work well with your hands
• customer service skills
• knowledge of public safety and security 
• concentration skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You can get into this job through:

• working towards this role
• specialist courses run by professional bodies

You'll usually be self-employed, although you can find jobs with private companies like solid fuel distributors.

You might also take further training to become a chimney and flue engineer.

It may be possible to buy an existing business.