Career Profile

Insulation Workers, Mechanical

What they do:

Apply insulating materials to pipes or ductwork, or other mechanical systems in order to help control and maintain temperature.

Also Called:

Commercial Insulator, Heat and Frost Insulator, Industrial Insulator, Insulation Installer, Insulation Mechanic, Insulation Worker, Insulator, Insulator Journeyman, Mechanic Insulator, Mechanical Insulator, Commercial Insulator, Heat and Frost Insulator, Industrial Insulator, Insulation Installer, Insulation Mechanic, Insulation Worker, Insulator, Insulator Journeyman, Mechanic Insulator, Mechanical Insulator
$39,480
Starting Salary (2025)
$48,930
Median Salary (2025)
4.7%
Projected Job Growth
4,190
TX Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Fit insulation around obstructions, and shape insulating materials and protective coverings as required.
Measure and cut insulation for covering surfaces, using tape measures, handsaws, knives, and scissors.
Determine the amounts and types of insulation needed, and methods of installation, based on factors such as location, surface shape, and equipment use.
Apply, remove, and repair insulation on industrial equipment, pipes, ductwork, or other mechanical systems such as heat exchangers, tanks, and vessels, to help control noise and maintain temperatures.
Select appropriate insulation, such as fiberglass, Styrofoam, or cork, based on the heat retaining or excluding characteristics of the material.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Integrity
Cooperation
Dependability
Self-Control
Initiative

What key skills are needed for this job?

Coordination
Time Management
Monitoring
Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Speaking

Expected Knowledge

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Customer and Personal Service

Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Mechanical

Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.

Common Activities

Handling and Moving Objects

Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

Performing General Physical Activities

Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.

Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings

Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 2

Some Preparation Needed

Education

These occupations usually require a high school diploma.

Experience

Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.

Training

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • High school diploma 72%
  • Post-secondary certificate 21%
  • Less than high school 8%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

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