Ironworkers are involved in erecting buildings and bridges as well as other structures. They follow blueprints to hoist and install structural steel as well as precast concrete, concrete reinforcing materials and other metals used in construction. They set up the framework of a building by positioning steel girders or other structural elements and then bolting them into place.

You like working outdoors and with your hands.

Agility and a good sense of balance.

Comfortable with heights.

Responsibilities

  • Use details from drawings, reading and instructions from supervisors.
  • Transport heavy metal pieces from the ground level to a higher location using tools like cranes or working with other team members to help position pieces correctly.
  • Erect structural steel members for industrial installations, commercial buildings, bridges, high-rises, wind mills and offshore drilling structures (GPS) (FPSO). 
  • Structural Steel fabrication (fitting and welding) reinforcing steel placing and post tensioning installation.
  • Access challenging work positions typically at heights and working in confined spaces. 

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Reading and numeracy, communication, problem-solving.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
  • Ability to work in high places.
  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment.

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

Highschool or equivalent. Complete a three-to four year apprenticeship program. Once you successfully complete the required on-the-job training, technical training and exams, you are awarded a journeyperson certificate.

Apprenticeship Program: 3-4 years, includes technical training, on-the- job training and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion.

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Hourly Pay

Approx. $40

(Based on journeyperson)

Projected Construction Worker Retirements

~ 8,100 by 2029*

*BuildForce Canada

Did You Know?

The Golden Gate Bridge was built by Ironworkers! As well as testing and building facilities for the Stealth Fighter and Space Shuttle, the famous St. Louis Arch & the Oil Sands Plant Expansion in Alberta, to name a few. Nearly every structure you can think of – schools, sports stadiums, shopping malls, hospitals, bridges, office and industrial buildings – all required the skills of trained ironworkers.