Steel fixer
Level 2 · IntermediateConstruction and the built environment 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 2 apprenticeship trains steel fixers to cut, bend, position, and tie reinforcing steel bars (rebar) within concrete structures on construction sites. Apprentices work on projects such as foundations, bridges, and high-rise buildings, ensuring reinforcement is placed precisely to structural drawings. It can lead to roles as a Senior Steel Fixer, Steel Fixing Supervisor, or Site Manager.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Reading and interpreting structural engineering drawings and schedules
Cutting and bending rebar using manual and powered equipment
Tying reinforcement cages using correct binding wire techniques
Placing cover spacers to maintain correct concrete cover
Health and safety on construction sites including PPE requirements
Handling and storing steel reinforcement safely
Quality checking reinforcement placement before concreting
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Cut and bend steel bars to dimensions from drawings
Build and tie reinforcement cages on site
Position steel precisely within formwork ahead of concreting
Place cover blocks to maintain the specified concrete cover
Assist in lifting and manoeuvring heavy steel sections safely
Check completed reinforcement against structural schedules
Follow site health and safety rules and wear correct PPE
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
No employer videos yet for this apprenticeship. Employers offering it can add one to show young people what the role is really like.