How Much Do Scaffolders Make?

How Much Do Scaffolders Make? Salary, Career Path & Training Guide

Scaffolders are essential in the construction industry, responsible for safely erecting and dismantling temporary structures that support workers and materials. It’s a physically demanding role with strict safety protocols, but it offers good pay and strong job security for those who are trained and experienced.

This guide explains what scaffolders earn in the UK, what qualifications are needed, levels of specialisation, job benefits and downsides, and the top companies to work for.

Job Description: What Do Scaffolders Do?

Scaffolders build temporary platforms and support structures for construction, renovation or maintenance projects. They work at height, often in all weather, on sites ranging from housing to skyscrapers.

Responsibilities:

• Assembling and dismantling scaffolding on buildings and structures

• Interpreting technical drawings and instructions

• Lifting, positioning, and securing tubes, fittings, and boards

• Installing guard rails, ladders, netting and safety equipment

• Inspecting scaffolds for stability and compliance

• Following health and safety protocols at all times

• Loading and unloading lorries with scaffolding equipment

How Hard Is It to Become a Scaffolder?

It’s physically tough but accessible. You don’t need academic qualifications, but you must complete safety training and gain experience on-site. Most scaffolders start as labourers or trainees and gain skills through apprenticeships or short courses.

Traits and Characteristics You Need

• Physical strength and stamina

• Comfort working at heights

• Balance and coordination

• Attention to safety and detail

• Ability to read drawings and work as part of a team

• Discipline and timekeeping

• Problem-solving mindset

Do You Need Qualifications?

Yes, to work legally on construction sites and erect scaffolding independently, you need:

Essential Certifications:

• CISRS Labourer Card (Green) – Entry-level

• CISRS Part 1 & Part 2 Scaffolder – Core skills and on-site assessments

• NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Accessing Operations & Rigging

• CISRS Advanced Scaffolder Card (optional)

• CISRS Supervisor Card (for team leaders)

• CSCS Health, Safety & Environment Test

Training usually takes 18–36 months including on-site work and assessment.

Career Levels and Specialisations

Scaffolding Labourer - Supports scaffolders with lifting and setup

Part 1 Scaffolder - Can erect basic structures

Part 2 Scaffolder - More advanced structures and duties

Advanced Scaffolder - Complex builds (hanging, suspended etc.)

Scaffolding Supervisor - Oversees team, safety, schedules

Scaffolding Inspector - Certifies structures as safe

Self-employed / Contractor - Runs or owns a team

What Experience Do You Need?

• No experience required to start, but must complete CISRS courses

• Hands-on learning through apprenticeship or labouring

• Experience in site safety, heavy lifting and working at height is helpful

• Scaffolders usually gain 3–5 years of experience before reaching top pay levels

Benefits of Being a Scaffolder

• Strong earning potential, especially with overtime or offshore

• High demand, especially in cities and infrastructure projects

• Clear training and pay progression

• Good teamwork environment

• Opportunity to go self-employed or run your own crew

• Work outdoors, physically active role

• Hands-on career without needing academic study

Drawbacks and Negatives

• Physically hard work – manual lifting and working outdoors

• Weather exposure – cold, rain, wind all year round

• High-risk role – strict safety compliance is critical

• Early starts and long hours

• Risk of injury, especially at height

• Can involve travel and temporary locations

Scaffolder Salary Levels in the UK

Scaffolding Labourer - £20,000 – £25,000

Trainee / Part 1 Scaffolder - £26,000 – £32,000

Part 2 Scaffolder - £33,000 – £40,000

Advanced Scaffolder - £42,000 – £55,000

Supervisor / Contractor - £55,000 – £80,000+

Tax Example:

A scaffolder earning £40,000/year would pay:

• Income Tax: ~£5,432

• National Insurance: ~£3,149

• Take-home pay: ~£31,419/year or £605/week

Self-employed scaffolders can deduct fuel, insurance, PPE, and tools to reduce tax.

What Factors Affect Salary?

• Location – London and South East pay more

• Experience and qualifications (CISRS level)

• Specialist work (e.g. offshore, suspended, rail projects)

• Union sites / bonus schemes (e.g. NAECI rates)

• Overtime and shift availability

• Self-employment vs direct employment

What’s the Future for Scaffolders?

The role remains vital in construction, infrastructure, and industrial maintenance.

Future trends:

• More demand for high-rise and urban development projects

• Increased safety tech (fall prevention, harness systems)

• Modular scaffolding systems for faster builds

• Growth in renewable infrastructure (wind, solar)

• Offshore projects expanding with oil/gas and wind farms

Best Companies to Work for in the UK Scaffolding Industry

TRAD Group - Large-scale UK scaffolding firm

Actavo - Energy, offshore, and domestic scaffolding

PHD Access - Major London commercial builds

Lyndon SGB - High-rise, infrastructure, complex projects

Palmers Scaffolding - Petrochemical and industrial projects

Sky Scaffolding - Midlands-based reputable company

Self-employed / Subcontractor - High earnings potential if skilled

Also consider offshore work with Shell, BP, and TotalEnergies (via industrial services firms like Altrad or Cape).

Final Thought

Scaffolding is a tough but rewarding trade. With relatively fast training, strong pay, and clear progression, it’s ideal for people who like physical work, don’t mind heights, and want a secure, in-demand skill. For those who go self-employed or reach advanced levels, the earnings can rival many white-collar careers.