Scaffold Builder Skills and Qualifications

Scaffold builders should have a “safety first” attitude and strong mechanical skills. Licensing requirements vary by state, but at least one year of scaffolding experience is typically sought out. Employers also prefer candidates who possess the following skills:

Scaffolding experience – skill with the proper techniques for erecting and dismantling scaffolding is essential for scaffold builders to do their job well
Basic arithmetic – scaffold builders perform basic math calculations to determine safe weight loads and interpret blueprints
Parts inspection and assessment – the ability to inspect scaffold components and recognize damaged or defective parts is vital for scaffold builders. They regularly perform hands-on scaffold and rig assessments to ensure worker safety
Familiarity with crane operations – scaffold builders must skillfully execute hand signals and man lifts, forklifts, and company trucks
Physical fitness – scaffold builders work in extreme weather conditions, stand or walk for long periods of time, and climb, stoop, bend, crouch, and crawl in restricted spaces
Communication skills – creating and maintaining positive working relationships with coworkers, agencies, clients, and crew members is important to this role
Organization skills – successful scaffold constructors are detail oriented and follow instructions carefully to prevent potentially dangerous conditions