Small-Crew structural steel erection subcontractor

General contractors, steel fabricators and builders who sub out the erection. Occasionally property owners on small commercial projects.

A fixed bid per job or per ton of steel erected, or a day rate for the crew and equipment. Repeat work from a few reliable contractors keeps the crew busy.

• Ironworking or steel erection experience
• Reading structural drawings
• Welding and bolting
• Crew safety leadership
• Estimating and bidding

• Falls and structural collapse are major risks, so check OSHA's steel erection requirements and set up a written safety plan
• Insurance for steel erection can be costly, and general contractors usually require proof of liability and workers' comp before you start
• Check your state's contractor licensing rules and your city or county permit rules
• Public jobs may require surety bonds and prevailing wage payroll, so ask before bidding
• Crane or lift operators and welders may need certifications, so check what each job requires
• Slow payment from contractors can strain cash flow, so check payment terms and lien rights before you start

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $25,000 to $120,000, depending on equipment, insurance and crew size. Monthly revenue is estimated at around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on the jobs you win.

Check OSHA's steel erection requirements and set up a written safety plan. Also check your state's contractor licensing, city or county permits, and the liability and workers' comp proof general contractors usually require before you start.

Useful skills include ironworking or steel erection experience, reading structural drawings, welding and bolting, crew safety leadership, and estimating and bidding. The idea assumes at least about 35 hours a week.