Fence Erectors

Core Tasks

1. Establish the location for a fence, and gather information needed to ensure that there are no electric cables or water lines in the area.
2. Set metal or wooden posts in upright positions in postholes.
3. Measure and lay out fence lines and mark posthole positions, following instructions, drawings, or specifications.
4. Align posts, by lines or sighting, and verify vertical alignment of posts, using plumb bobs or spirit levels.
5. Attach rails or tension wire along bottoms of posts to form fencing frames.
6. Dig postholes, using spades, posthole diggers, or power-driven augers.
7. Attach fence rail supports to posts, using hammers and pliers.
8. Assemble gates, and fasten gates into position, using hand tools.
9. Mix and pour concrete around bases of posts, or tamp soil into postholes to embed posts.
10. Make rails for fences, by sawing lumber or by cutting metal tubing to required lengths.
11. Nail top and bottom rails to fence posts, or insert them in slots on posts.
12. Discuss fencing needs with customers, and estimate and quote prices.
13. Stretch wire, wire mesh, or chain link fencing between posts, and attach fencing to frames.
14. Complete top fence rails of metal fences by connecting tube sections, using metal sleeves.
15. Erect alternate panel, basket weave, and louvered fences.
16. Insert metal tubing through rail supports.
17. Nail pointed slats to rails to construct picket fences.
18. Construct and repair barriers, retaining walls, trellises, and other types of fences, walls, and gates.
19. Weld metal parts together, using portable gas welding equipment.

Technology & Tools

Related Occupations

Compare skills gap with any of these related roles.