What is SOC code 8115?

SOC code 8115 is the Standard Occupational Classification code for metal making and treating process operatives. UK employers use it on a Certificate of Sponsorship to identify the job being sponsored.

Is occupation code 8115 eligible for the Skilled Worker visa?

Only in limited cases. Code 8115 is Medium Skilled (RQF 3–5), so it can be sponsored mainly where the occupation is on the Immigration Salary List or Temporary Shortage List, or for workers already in the route before 22 July 2025.

SOC Code 8115: Metal making and treating process operatives

Occupation code 8115 covers metal making and treating process operatives. On the UK Skilled Worker route this code is classed as Medium Skilled.

Is code 8115 eligible for sponsorship?

Occupation code 8115 is classed as Medium Skilled (RQF levels 3–5). It is not automatically eligible: it can only be sponsored in limited circumstances — typically where the occupation appears on the Immigration Salary List or the interim Temporary Shortage List, or where the worker was already in the Skilled Worker route before 22 July 2025. GOV.UK notes this code as: extending in same occupation only. Workers sponsored in RQF 3–5 roles through those lists generally cannot bring dependants.

Salary requirement for code 8115

GOV.UK does not publish a going rate for this occupation code, which is normally the case for codes that cannot be sponsored. If your role is eligible under a different code, use that code's going rate instead.

Job titles under this code

GOV.UK lists the following related job titles for occupation code 8115. Your employer should choose the code that matches your actual duties, not your job title — different employers use different titles for the same work.

Galvanisers and platers
Metal sprayers and powder coaters
Metal making and treating process operatives not elsewhere classified

Which employers can sponsor this role?

Any employer holding a Skilled Worker sponsor licence can sponsor an eligible occupation — the licence is not granted per occupation code. What you need to check is that the employer appears on the Home Office register with the Skilled Worker route and an A rating.

Search over 125,000 licensed sponsor records on the UK sponsor list, filter by town on sponsors by city, or check a specific employer in the A–Z company directory.

Related occupation codes

Other codes in the same process, plant and machine operatives group:

Source: GOV.UK Skilled Worker visa: going rates for eligible occupation codes and eligible occupations tables, in force since 22 July 2025 and checked on 10 August 2026. This is general information, not legal advice — confirm the current position on GOV.UK before applying.