Installers transport and install manufactured buildings and mobile homes.
Manufactured buildings consist of two or more units. Mobile homes are single
or double units.
Installers build the foundation, install support piers and install the
roofing. They level the units to ensure a smooth fit. They also look after
plumbing, sewer and electrical connections.
Installers called "trimmers" add the finishing touches. This could include
adding a few rows of shingles to a roof or ensuring that the carpeting meets
and matches correctly.
Mobile home installers set the unit or units on blocks that serve as the
foundation. They remove the axles and wheels. If they're working with a double
unit, they level the units so they fit together smoothly, and then bolt the
two units together.
Finally, they hook up utilities. These installers might also take down
used mobile homes and move them to a new location.
Installers transport the manufactured building or the mobile home to the
site via large trucks. Truck drivers require special licenses.
Installers assemble modular buildings according to the manufacturer's instructions.
"Following directions is absolutely necessary," says industry consultant George
Porter. "If you do not follow instructions, you do so at your own peril."
Installers must be able to use computers. They rely on e-mail to communicate
with factories and other industry sources.
Porter says soon installers will be able to download installation instructions
to a personal digital assistant (a hand-held computer). They will be able
to use these instructions while they are on the job. "The PDA software won't
completely eliminate the need for a manual, but it will be increasingly important."
Installers work for manufacturers, dealers or installation companies. Some
are self-employed and seek their own contracts.
A person with a disability could do some aspects of manufactured home installation.
"Of course, it depends upon the disability," says Porter. "A person without
sight could not do this work, but a person in a wheelchair could work in the
parts department."
Manufactured building installers have to be very safety-conscious. It's
easy to hurt yourself, and injuries can be severe.
"You have to keep your wits about you," Porter explains. "The work is unforgiving.
You cannot make dumb little moves. You will be killed if you don't respect
what you are doing."