Earls Colne steel fixer says skilled trade offers long-term career and early finishes

“I came for a job – I stayed for 20 years”

An Earls Colne man who joined Milbank Concrete Products almost 20 years ago says steel fixing is a skilled trade more people should consider – as the local manufacturer looks to recruit an experienced steel fixer.

Scott Burlton, who lives in Earls Colne, first joined the company in his early twenties after working in farming and greenhouse roles.

“My best friend worked here and asked me to come in,” Scott said. “I never planned on steel fixing, but once you start doing it, you realise how much skill goes into it.”

Nearly two decades later, he is still part of the team – something he says comes down to pride in the work and the stability the role offers.

“It’s not just manual work”

Scott’s day-to-day role involves bending reinforcement for staircases, producing links for beams and creating specialist lifting bars using rebar bending machines. The work requires reading technical drawings accurately, MIG welding, and working closely with colleagues to ensure each component fits perfectly into the next stage of production.

“What you do affects the next person,” he explained. “It’s teamwork. You’ve got to get things right.”

He says one of the biggest misconceptions about steel fixing is that it is “just labour”.

“It’s physical, yes – but it’s skilled. When a complicated, bespoke job comes together properly, that’s where the satisfaction is. You’re putting together something complex that isn’t easy to do.”

Early finishes and long-term security

Steel fixers at Milbank typically work 6am to 3pm – something Scott says makes a real difference to work-life balance.

“You know when you’re getting home,” he said. “You’ve still got your afternoon. That structure really helps.”

He also credits the training and support he received when he first joined.

“I was trained on everything. Once you’re up to speed, you feel confident in what you’re doing.”

Encouraging others to consider a trade

With skilled trades in high demand across the region, Scott believes more people locally should consider hands-on careers.

“You need a bit of drive and strength, but also the right attitude,” he said. “If you like getting things done and feeling a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day, it’s a good job.”

Milbank Concrete Products, based in Earls Colne, is currently looking to recruit an experienced steel fixer to join its team, following continued demand for its precast concrete products.

Full details can be found at:
https://www.milbank.co.uk/career/precast-steel-fixer/