Updated 2024 · Structural
How to Become a Ironworker
Ironworkers fabricate, erect, and install structural and reinforcing steel for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They work at extreme heights assembling the skeletal framework of structures.
Steps to Become a Ironworker
- Meet basic requirements, You must be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED. A strong foundation in math, physics, and shop classes helps.
- Apply to an apprenticeship program, Ironworker apprenticeships last 4 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apply through your local union (IBEW, UA, etc.) or a non-union contractor program. You earn while you learn from day one.
- Complete required training, Complete 8000 hours of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction.
- Earn certifications, Required certifications include: OSHA 10/30-Hour Construction Safety, Ironworker Welding Certification (AWS D1.1), Rigging and signaling certification, Fall protection certification.
- Pass the journeyman exam, After completing your apprenticeship, pass the journeyman licensing exam in your state to earn full journeyman status and pay.
What Does a Ironworker Do?
Ironworkers fabricate, erect, and install structural and reinforcing steel for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They work at extreme heights assembling the skeletal framework of structures.
Daily Duties
- Read blueprints and structural drawings
- Rig and hoist steel beams and columns with cranes
- Bolt, weld, and rivet steel components together
- Install reinforcing bars (rebar) for concrete structures
- Cut and shape steel using torches and shears
Skills Needed
- Structural steel erection
- Welding (structural)
- Rigging and crane signaling
- Blueprint reading
- Fall protection
Required Certifications
- OSHA 10/30-Hour Construction Safety
- Ironworker Welding Certification (AWS D1.1)
- Rigging and signaling certification
- Fall protection certification
Ironworker Salary (2024)
The national median ironworker salary is $70,146 per year. Pay ranges from $45,610 in the lowest-paying metro to $117,110 in the highest-paying metro. See the full ironworker salary breakdown by city.
Apprentice Pay Progression
Ironworker apprentices earn while they learn, starting at approximately 40% of journeyman pay:
| Year | % of Journeyman | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 40% | $28,058 |
| Year 2 | 57% | $39,983 |
| Year 3 | 73% | $51,207 |
| Year 4 | 90% | $63,131 |
| Journeyman | 100% | $70,146 |
Union vs Non-Union Ironworker Pay
Union ironworkers earn 39% more than non-union workers, $38.90/hour union vs $27.99/hour non-union. Approximately 42.1% of ironworkers are union members. See the full union vs non-union comparison.
Work Environment
Ironworkers work outdoors at construction sites, often at extreme heights on steel beams and scaffolding. One of the most physically dangerous trades, high injury and fatality rates.
Career Outlook
Demand tied to commercial construction and infrastructure projects. Federal infrastructure spending has increased demand for bridge and highway ironwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
The national median salary for a ironworker is $70,146 per year (2024 BLS data). Pay ranges from $45,610 to $117,110 depending on location, with top earners in the 90th percentile making significantly more.
It takes 4 years to complete a ironworker apprenticeship. During this time, you earn while you learn, starting at approximately 40-50% of journeyman wages and receiving annual raises.
No college degree is required to become a ironworker. The primary path is through an apprenticeship program or trade school. You will need to earn specific certifications: OSHA 10/30-Hour Construction Safety and Ironworker Welding Certification (AWS D1.1).
Ironworker earns a Trade Pay Score grade of C, meaning it rates moderately on pay relative to cost of living, wage growth, and demand. Demand tied to commercial construction and infrastructure projects. Federal infrastructure spending has increased demand for bridge and highway ironwork.
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