Sign installers mount, service, and repair signs in commercial, industrial, and residential settings. Their duties include preparing poles, buildings, billboards, and other structures for installations and then mounting the signs.

A Sign Installer erects signs on buildings, in shops and throughout public spaces. You may install free-standing signs, signs on building walls or other types of signage. Sign Installers may also work with clients to design signs by using digital software. You might work with a range of materials and install signs on many types of surfaces.

Sign Installers should be able to make accurate measurements and have a keen eye for detail. You'll need to be flexible and be able to work in a range of settings. Sign Installers should have strong customer service skills and must be able to communicate well with clients. You’ll need to have good teamwork skills when required.

(Source: I Space)

ANZSCO ID: 899918
  
Alternative names: Sign Installer
  
Knowledge, skills and attributes

To ensure success as a sign installer, you will need to be highly organized, have good knowledge about the types of signs, and be comfortable working at heights. An outstanding sign installer will demonstrate precision and possess a sound understanding of the applicable construction and installation techniques.

• Journeyman electrician license.

• Valid commercial driver's license and a clean driving record.

• Good knowledge of various types of signs including vinyl, channel letters, electrical signs, and road signs.

• A sound understanding of the applicable installation methods, materials, and safety measures.

• The ability to operate hand and power tools.

• Physically fit and able to perform strenuous labor including lifting, climbing, and working at heights.

• The ability to work in harsh weather conditions.

• Willingness to work during evenings and on weekends, as needed.

(Source: Jason Signs)

Duties and Tasks

•  Ensuring that signs meet clients' specifications in terms of spelling, font, size, and medium.
• Loading and transporting signs, tools, and materials to the location safely.
• Preparing the site for installation by removing old signage, preparing the surface or structure, and securing the electrical connections.
• Ensuring the effective measurement, placement, connection, and installation of the sign.
• Mounting and installing the signs in accordance with all safety protocols.
• Clearing debris and materials from the site after each installation.
• Erects preassembled illuminated signs on buildings or other structures, according to sketches, drawings, or blueprints: Measures location for sign and marks points where holes for expansion shields are to be drilled, using measuring tape and chalk.
•  Drills holes, using star drill.
•  Drives expansion shield into hole with hammer, and secures lag bolts in shield, using wrench.
•  Attaches hanging pole for sign to building front with lag bolts, and secures pole with guy wires attached from pole to lag bolts.
•  Secures cornice hook on roof, rigs block and tackle, and hoists sign into position, or operates hydraulic boom to position sign.
•  Secures sign to hanging pole with hooks.
•  Makes electrical connections to power source and tests sign for correct operation.
• Performing maintenance and repairs to signs, as needed.
• Operating and maintaining the tools and equipment in accordance with safety protocols.
•  May prewire sign before installing.
•  May use welding equipment when installing sign.
•  May mount plastic signs with adhesives.
•  May fabricate signs according to specifications and be designated Sign Maker.

Working conditions

• Physically fit and able to perform strenuous labor including lifting, climbing, and working at heights.

• The ability to work in harsh weather conditions.

(Source: I Space)

Tools and technologies

See details of tools above in Duties and Tasks.

Education and training/entrance requirements

A Certificate III in Signs and Graphics is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Sign Installer. This course covers a range of topics including designing digital layouts and producing and applying vinyl signs. You’ll learn about engraving, airbrushing, sign erection and working at heights.

Employment Opportunities

This industry has seen strong employment growth in recent years. There are currently 7,800 people employed as a Sign Installer in Australia, compared to 6,800 five years ago. Sign Installers may find work across all regions of Australia.

A professional calligrapher is an artist who develops handwritten pieces for signs, stationary and other projects. Calligraphers use paint brushes, special pens, ink brushes and other writing instruments to create styled text. Often, these calligraphers work as freelancers, meaning they complete orders for single clients rather than working for a full-time employer. Some calligraphers work for graphic design agencies or in roles related to events or education.
     
Professional calligraphers use their skills to write messages, signs and letters in a specific text style. Often, the writing they produce is flowing, expressive and ornamental.

(Source: Career Explorer)

Types of Calligraphers
There are several types of calligraphers, each specializing in different aspects of calligraphy. Here are a few common types:

• Traditional Calligraphers: Traditional calligraphers focus on studying and practicing historical calligraphic scripts and styles. They strive to replicate and preserve traditional writing systems, such as Gothic, Italic, Uncial, or Copperplate, with meticulous attention to detail and adherence to historical techniques. Traditional calligraphers often create manuscripts, certificates, or artistic pieces inspired by historical periods and cultural traditions.
• Modern/Contemporary Calligraphers: Modern or contemporary calligraphers explore innovative approaches to calligraphy, incorporating personal expression and experimentation. They may blend traditional scripts with contemporary design elements, creating unique compositions that push the boundaries of calligraphy as an art form. Modern calligraphers often explore abstract or expressive letterforms, experimenting with different tools, materials, and techniques to create visually striking and unconventional pieces.
• Brush Calligraphers: Brush calligraphers specialize in calligraphy executed with brushes, typically using ink or watercolours. They often draw inspiration from East Asian calligraphy traditions, such as Chinese, Japanese, or Korean styles. Brush calligraphers emphasize the expressive qualities of the brushstroke and the harmonious flow of ink, creating dynamic and visually captivating compositions.
• 
  
  Japanese Calligraphy
  (Source: Kyuhoshi)
• Typography/Lettering Artists: Typography and lettering artists combine calligraphy with graphic design principles to create custom lettering, typographic designs, and logotypes. They possess a strong understanding of letterforms, composition, and type design, and often work digitally to create scalable and versatile lettering styles. Typography artists may create custom fonts, design book covers, develop branding elements, or work on digital and print projects where expressive and visually appealing lettering is required.
• Arabic Calligraphers: Arabic calligraphers specialize in the art of Arabic calligraphy, which has a rich history and diverse range of script styles. They are skilled in writing Arabic letters and creating complex compositions that reflect the beauty and intricacy of the Arabic script. Arabic calligraphers may work on a wide range of projects, including Quranic manuscripts, decorative art, logo designs, or architectural inscriptions.
• 
  Arabic Calligraphy
  (Source: eBaums World)
• Wedding/Event Calligraphers: Wedding or event calligraphers specialize in creating hand-lettered invitations, place cards, seating charts, and other stationery for special occasions. They often work closely with clients to incorporate personalized calligraphy and design elements that reflect the theme and aesthetic of the event. Wedding calligraphers may offer various script styles and embellishments to add an elegant and personalized touch to the stationery.
• Illumination Calligraphers: Illumination calligraphers specialize in combining calligraphy with intricate illustrations, decorative borders, and embellishments. They often work on projects such as medieval-style manuscripts, certificates, or commemorative documents, where the calligraphy is accompanied by elaborate and detailed artwork.
• Digital Calligraphers: Digital calligraphers create calligraphy using digital tools and software. They may use digital pens or tablets to simulate the experience of writing with traditional tools, or they may use vector-based software to create precise and scalable calligraphic designs. Digital calligraphers often work on projects that require electronic files for reproduction or integration with digital platforms.
• Signage Calligraphers: Signage calligraphers specialize in creating hand-painted or hand-lettered signs. They use calligraphic techniques to design and execute lettering for storefronts, chalkboards, event signage, or decorative signs. Signage calligraphers pay attention to legibility, readability, and visual impact to create eye-catching and attractive signs.
• Penmanship Educators: Penmanship educators focus on teaching proper handwriting techniques and penmanship skills. They help students develop good writing habits, improve letterforms, and enhance their overall handwriting abilities. Penmanship educators often work in educational settings or offer specialized courses and workshops to individuals interested in improving their handwriting skills.

Arabic Calligraphy
(Source: eBaums World)

ANZSCO ID: 399611
  
Alternative names: Calligraphist; Penman;
  
Specialisations

• Wedding invitations
• Religious art
• Inscriptions
• Certificates
• Stationery
• Signs
• Logos
  Memorial documents
• Poetry
• Letters
• Event invitations
• Map annotations

  
Knowledge, skills and attributes

Having calligraphy skills is very important for applying for specific opportunities. Here are some other skills to consider developing if you're interested in a career as a professional calligrapher:

• Degree in visual art, typography, history or a related discipline may be required
• Great artistic and creative skills
• A strong calligraphy portfolio would be advantageous
• Strong manual dexterity and discipline
• Resilient self-starter with a positive attitude
• Writing skills: It's important for calligraphers to have expert penmanship and an in-depth understanding of popular calligraphy styles. Confidence in using calligraphy-specific writing instruments is also important.
• Attention to detail: Since calligraphers produce finished pieces that typically have formal applications, like wedding invitations or inscriptions, it's important their work appears close to perfect. Producing consistent work with no writing errors and with proper letting sizing can help calligraphers meet clients' expectations.
• Excellent communication and marketing abilities. Communication skills are important for understanding client needs and project requirements and discussing font or layout ideas before completing a project.
• Time management skills: Most calligraphers submit their work within a specific time frame, so time management skills are valuable for helping them remain motivated and productive.

Learning Calligraphy
(Source: To Work or to Play)

Duties and Tasks

Calligraphers engage in a range of activities, combining technical skills, artistic creativity, and a deep appreciation for the art of handwriting. Through their work, they contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, create personalized and meaningful pieces, and bring the beauty of calligraphy to various aspects of daily life.

• Practicing and Mastering Techniques: Calligraphers spend significant time practicing and refining their techniques. They study different calligraphic styles, scripts, and alphabets, both historical and contemporary. They experiment with various writing instruments, such as pens, brushes, and nibs, to achieve different effects and textures. Calligraphers focus on mastering fundamental skills like letterforms, stroke consistency, spacing, and overall composition.
• Creating Custom Lettering and Designs: Calligraphers often receive commissions to create custom lettering and designs for special occasions, events, or projects. They collaborate with clients to understand their specific requirements and desired aesthetic. Calligraphers then conceptualize and create unique compositions, incorporating appropriate scripts, styles, and embellishments. They meticulously handwrite texts, such as invitations, certificates, wedding vows, or personalized artworks, using their expertise to bring a sense of elegance and artistry to the final piece.
• Designing Logos and Branding Elements: Calligraphers with a strong design background may also offer logo design and branding services. They utilize their calligraphy skills to craft distinctive and visually appealing logos that reflect a brand's personality and values. They consider factors like legibility, scalability, and the overall impression the logo should convey. Calligraphers may also develop accompanying typographic systems, including custom fonts or lettering styles, to maintain consistency across various brand materials.
• Teaching and Workshops: Many calligraphers share their knowledge and skills through teaching and conducting workshops. They may offer classes in calligraphy, guiding students through various scripts, techniques, and hands-on exercises. Calligraphy workshops provide opportunities for beginners to learn foundational skills or for more experienced practitioners to explore advanced techniques. Through teaching, calligraphers inspire and empower others to appreciate and engage with the art of calligraphy.
• Exhibiting and Selling Artwork: Calligraphers often exhibit and sell their artwork in galleries, art shows, or online platforms. They create original pieces that showcase their artistic expression and mastery of calligraphic techniques. These artworks can include standalone compositions, abstract or representational pieces, or even calligraphic interpretations of poems or quotes. By exhibiting and selling their work, calligraphers connect with art enthusiasts, collectors, and individuals seeking unique, handcrafted pieces.
• Preservation and Restoration: Some calligraphers specialize in the preservation and restoration of historical manuscripts, documents, or artworks. They employ their knowledge of calligraphy techniques and historical scripts to repair and conserve damaged or deteriorated pieces. Calligraphers may work closely with conservators, archivists, or museums to ensure the accurate preservation of cultural and historical artifacts.

Here are some other ttypical duties a calligrapher may have:

• Responding to client requests
• Working with clients to understand project desires and style needs
• Creating finished pieces for events, businesses or client projects
• Creating drafts to understand project layout and lettering size
• Keeping nibs, brushes, inks, and workspaces clean and tidy
• Regularly inspecting inks to ensure they are free of air bubbles and debris, and ensuring all nibs are clean and free of rust.
• Using dotted paper to complete regular calligraphy drills

(Source: BetterTeam)

Working conditions

With their training and expertise, professional calligraphers can seek employment in a variety of industries, including fine art, marketing and advertising and print media. Depending on their preferred schedule and employment structure, they may become freelance or contract employees or look for full-time positions. For example, calligraphers may work with an event management company to create wedding invites.

Did You Know? What is the workplace of a Calligrapher like?    The workplace of a calligrapher can vary depending on their specialization and individual preferences. Here is an overview of different workplace settings that calligraphers may find themselves in: Studio or Home Workspace: Many calligraphers work from their own studios or dedicated home workspaces. These spaces are typically equipped with the necessary tools and materials for calligraphy, including a variety of pens, brushes, inks, papers, and drawing boards. A studio or home workspace allows calligraphers to have a personalized and organized environment where they can focus on their craft. They may have ample space for creating large-scale works, storage for their supplies, and a comfortable area for researching, practicing, and creating new designs. Shared Creative Spaces: Some calligraphers prefer to work in shared creative spaces, such as co-working spaces or artist collectives. These spaces provide opportunities for collaboration, networking, and inspiration. Calligraphers working in shared spaces often benefit from the creative energy and community of other artists working in various disciplines. These environments may offer additional resources, such as specialized equipment or access to printing facilities, that can further enhance the calligrapher's work. Workshops and Classes: Calligraphers who teach or conduct workshops may have dedicated spaces for instruction. These spaces can be classrooms, art studios, or rented venues where they can comfortably accommodate students and provide a conducive learning environment. The workspace may include demonstration areas, writing stations, and display spaces for showcasing samples and references. Teaching calligraphers often arrange their workspace to facilitate effective instruction, with an emphasis on clear visibility and accessibility for students. Calligraphy Workshop (Source: Nikki Design) On-Site or Remote Work: Depending on the nature of their projects, calligraphers may work on-site at client locations or remotely. For example, a calligrapher hired for an event may create hand-lettered pieces directly at the event venue. Alternatively, calligraphers may work remotely and communicate with clients online, receiving project briefs, sending digital proofs, and delivering the final work electronically or through shipping. Remote work allows flexibility and the ability to collaborate with clients from different locations. Exhibition Spaces and Galleries: Calligraphers who exhibit their work may have the opportunity to showcase their pieces in galleries, art shows, or exhibition spaces. These environments provide a platform to present calligraphic artworks to a wider audience. Exhibition spaces often have curated displays, appropriate lighting, and supportive infrastructure for hanging or showcasing calligraphic compositions. (Source: Career Explorer)

Tools and technologies

A calligrapher is an artist skilled in the art of decorative handwriting. Calligraphy is the visual art of creating beautiful and harmonious letterforms through the precise and deliberate arrangement of strokes. Calligraphers use various writing instruments, such as brushes, pens, or quills, and employ a range of styles and scripts to create visually stunning compositions. Here are some tools to get started:

Calligraphy pens, with either a straight or oblique nib holder
Pencils
Lined paper
Tracing paper
A ruler
An eraser
Ink
Quality paper

(Source: Australian Society of Calligraphers)

Education and training/entrance requirements

Most employers don't have specific degree requirements for calligraphers. Instead, they use the artist's skill to determine their candidacy for employment. Training under a professional calligrapher can help you develop your skills and learn to draw professionally. Consider looking for apprenticeship opportunities, classes, online courses or instructive books to learn more about working as a calligrapher.

While clients and employers may not have strict experience requirements, they often prefer to hire artists with a strong portfolio and developed skills. Experience can help you gain proficiency by creating polished and professional-looking pieces. Doing freelance work for clients can also introduce you to valuable new opportunities and projects.

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

Artist	Conservator	Events Coordinator	Graphic Designer
Illustrator	Market Research Analyst	Marketing Officer	Museum Curator
Painter	Screen Printer	Tattoo Artist	Wedding Coordinator

Material sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Signwriter; ]
Good Universities Guide [Signmaker;]
CareersOnline [Signmaker; ]
CareerHQ [Signmaker; ]
CareerPlanner [Sign Erector; ]
Career Explorer [Calligrapher; ]
BetterTeam [Sign Installer; Calligrapher; ]
Courses [Sign Installer; ]
Indeed [Calligrapher; ]
Your Career [Signwriter; Sign Erector; ]