Ironworker – Structural
I like that we’re a rare breed. We build towers in the sky, work on iron skeletons of high rises and inch along spans of bridges.
Ironworker – Structural/Ornamental tradespeople fabricate and construct structural steel buildings, bridges, pre-cast structures, ornamental ironwork and join scaffolding. They erect structural steel and pre-cast components, install conveyors, secondary steel, curtain wall and sometimes perform reconstructive work on existing structures.
You like precision work.
You are comfortable working at heights & in diverse weather.
You like working outdoors & as part of a team.

Ironworker Testimonials

Jamie & Norm

Jerome

Pat
Responsibilities
- Read blueprints & specifications to lay out work
- Safely operate tools & equipment
- Erect and install construction cranes & hoisting equipment
- Position steel units, align holes and insert bolts
- Check alignments and join steel parts by bolting or lock welding
- Assemble and erect prefabricated metal structures & related components
- Install ornamental/architectural and other structural metalwork
Key Skills & Attributes
(technical training and on the job)
- Strong communication skills, reading & numeracy
- Strong problem-solving & planning skills
- Ability to interpret blueprints
- Very good muscular coordination, agility & balance
- Ability to work at heights & lift in excess of 25 kg
- Ability to act quickly & decisively in emergencies
- Willingness to work at various work sites
Entrance Requirements
English 10-2 and Math 10-3 OR all five Canadian General Educational Development tests OR Entrance Exam.
Apprenticeship Program:
3 years, includes technical training and 4,500 hours on-the-job training, and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.
Hourly Pay
Contact the local union for more information on hourly pay, benefits, pensions and more.
Construction workers needed!
55,810
Construction Workers needed by 2030*
*According to BuildForce Canada
Did you know?
Ironworking is a multi-faceted career and involves more than constructing buildings and bridges. Most ironworkers do more than one type of ironwork and each requires specific skills.
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