A handyman is a person that can do many different types of jobs. Their work varies from electrical, painting, light plumbing, woodworking, and many other duties. They can be self employed or employed by a business that has a lot of maintenance needs. It should be noted there is currently not a commonly used gender neutral term for handyman but women can also be in this profession and may use a different title such as, repair person. If you like working with your hands and meeting people, then read on, this may be the job for you!
How to Become a Handyman
There is no required education to become a handyman. There are vocational schools available to teach a trade and some community colleges offer practical courses in specific crafts. Technical education classes are often available for high school students as well. If you have yet to graduate high school, try and take any shop classes that may be offered.
The state in which you live may require a license to work as a handyman. If you work for a company, they have the license and the insurance needed. If you choose to work on your own, you will want to look into how licensing and bonding requirements. You can find more helpful information at the United Handyman Association’s website. You will also want to work on your customer service skills to be able to communicate clearly and be friendly. You will need the ability to use hand tools and may find yourself working in cramped spaces. This job requires a lot of stamina because of long periods of standing and holding your arms above your head, as well as lifting heaving objects.
What does a Handyman Do?
A handyman knows several different skills that require working with their hands and tools. They repair leaky faucets, install ceiling fans and light fixtures, paint, lay tiles or wood floors. Some can also do minor work on air conditioning or heating systems and may sometimes repair minor exterior building issues. A handyman may also own a vehicle that can haul away trash for a client or pick up and deliver furniture or large objects. The size and type of job vary with the person’s needs and the worker’s experience. If a company employs a handyman, the employer often supplies the tools needed, the work vehicle, and training.
Some handymen work in places that offer opportunities to make contacts to further their business, like hardware stores. They also meet people at their churches, apartment complexes, and other places. Some handymen come from backgrounds that have given them experience in certain areas of expertise, like the military, construction, electrical work, or plumbing. Those retired from other professions often like to do these maintenance jobs to earn extra income, stay social, and keep busy. A handyman can work full or part time, weekends, and can be on call if a repair issues comes up. This job does involve a lot of walking, standing, reaching, climbing ladders, and being confined to cramped positions. There may also be a higher rate of injury, for example falls, cuts, or other harm.
