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Structural Iron and Steel Worker

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AVG. SALARY

$52,300

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EDUCATION

No standard requirement

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JOB OUTLOOK

Increasing

What They Do

Structural Iron and Steel Workers Career Video

Insider Info

Ironworkers fabricate, erect, hoist, install, repair and service structural ironwork, concrete, curtain walls, ornamental iron and other metals used in construction.

Structural and reinforcing ironworkers work with metal stairways, catwalks, floor gratings, ladders, window frames, lampposts, railings and fences. They connect steel beams, columns and girders, and set bars in place to hold concrete, following blueprints and instruction.

The materials used in ironworking are heavy and bulky, so workers must be in good physical condition. Agility, balance, good eyesight and spatial perception are required to work at great heights on narrow beams and girders. Ironworkers can't be afraid of heights or suffer from dizziness.

And women must be willing to work extra hard, says Judy Colbert, an Illinois ironworker.

"Of all the trades, this is [the] most dangerous and the roughest on your body. Don't expect any preferential treatment because you're a girl and don't expect to be babied. Jump right into whatever work is being done."

Ironworkers have to work outside in all kinds of weather. But those at great heights don't work in rain, ice or extreme wind. Under any conditions, they use safety belts, scaffolding and nets to reduce the risk of serious injury.

An Ohio ironworker emphasizes that risk. "Make darn sure that this is what you want to do," says Bill Talbert. "It's dangerous and isn't for everybody. Stay in school and learn as much as you can. There's more to ironwork than just putting bolts in holes."

Just the Facts

Want a quick overview of what this career is about?Check out Just the Facts for simple lists of characteristics.

At a Glance

Install and repair structural and ornamental iron

  • You need to be in good physical condition
  • Ironworkers work outside in all kinds of weather
  • You can get training through an apprenticeship

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

Support