Scaffolder

CV is mandatory: candidates without a CV are not reviewed.
Sector: Construction & Trades Typical route: EB-3 / H-2B Work type: Temporary or permanent Updated: January 1, 2026

Scaffolding roles are screened strictly: upload a detailed English CV (systems, components, inspections, safety at height).

Pay (Gross) & schedule snapshot

ItemTypical range / expectation
Hourly pay (gross) $18.00 – $35.00 per hour (gross) is a practical planning range for many scaffolder/scaffold builder assignments. Higher rates may apply for industrial shutdowns, travel crews, night shifts, or lead roles.
Market anchors (gross) Aggregated job-posting data commonly places scaffold builder averages around $24/hour, with typical low/high bands roughly $17–$34/hour depending on location and employer.
Overtime Many scaffolding teams work extended weeks during shutdowns/outages. When overtime applies, it is commonly paid at 1.5× the regular rate for covered employees (employer policy and job classification matter).
Hours Often 40–60 hours/week depending on site schedule. Industrial maintenance windows may create compressed, high-intensity weeks.
H-2B wage floor (if H-2B applies) If H-2B is used, the offered wage is defined in the job order and must meet applicable wage rules for the area and occupation.
Pay frequency Often weekly or biweekly (employer policy).
Practical note: scaffolder pay is driven by site type (industrial vs commercial), safety controls, complexity (ties/engineering), and schedule intensity.

Typical tasks (scaffold erection, modification, dismantling)


Scope varies by employer: commercial builds, industrial maintenance, shutdown/outage projects, or traveling scaffold crews.

Requirements (detailed)

Reality check: scaffolding is safety-critical work. Employers screen for disciplined behavior at height and consistent adherence to build/inspection routines.

Working conditions in the USA (scaffolding reality)

Height & access control

  • Frequent work at height with controlled access and strict movement discipline.
  • Guardrails, toe boards, safe decking, and compliant access routes (ladders/stairs).
  • Fall protection and PPE compliance are monitored on many sites.

Industrial sites & shutdowns

  • Industrial scaffolding may involve tight spaces, pipe racks, equipment zones, and changing work fronts.
  • Shutdown/outage schedules can be intense with long weeks while the window is open.
  • Site rules can include strict sign-in/out, toolbox talks, and controlled work permits.

Physical load & precision

  • Manual handling of components (frames, standards, ledgers, planks, couplers).
  • Bracing, tying, and leveling are quality-critical; errors create safety risks.
  • Clean tagging/inspection habits protect the whole site, not only your crew.

Note: this page is informational. Exact duties, safety rules, and pay depend on the employer, state, system type, and site policy.

Next steps (how review usually works)

Related roles in Construction & Trades

Use these internal links to compare similar roles before applying.


Visa & authorization disclaimer: Any U.S. work authorization path (e.g., H-2B, EB-3) depends on the hiring employer, eligibility and official procedures. This page is informational and not legal advice.

FAQ

Answers below are written for international candidates evaluating scaffolder roles in the USA.