Ironworking is a multi-faceted career. They assemble, erect, weld and repair industrial and commercial structural steel framework and other metals and materials used in buildings, bridges, highways, dams, industrial plants and other structures. They are also involved in concrete reinforcing (rebar and wire mesh), precast concrete, industrial plant maintenance, machinery and equipment rigging and installation, dragline construction and curtain wall installation.

You enjoy physically demanding work & using your mind.

You like working outdoors & as part of a team.

You take pride in quality work that meets demanding standards.

Responsibilities

  • Position and secure steel bars or metal mesh in concrete forms to reinforce concrete structures
  • Erect and install scaffolding, falsework and other working platforms
  • Signal crane operators to position units according to blueprints
  • Align, weld or bolt units in place
  • Dismantle metal, precast concrete or laminated timber buildings and other structures
  • Inspect or test structures and equipment for deterioration, defects or failure to comply with specifications or regulations
  • Unload and position steel units so each piece can be hoisted as needed

Key Skills & Attributes

(technical training and on the job)

  • Strong communication, problem-solving and planning skills
  • Reading and numeracy
  • Good physical condition & above average strength
  • Agility & good sense of balance
  • Ability to work in high places & in diverse weather
  • Ability to work in a collaborative environment

What You’ll Need

Entrance Requirements

  • Grade 10 transcript (no modified classes) or GED 12 Canadian Language
  • Benchmark Assessment of six (CLB6). Minimum age 18

Apprenticeship Program:
3 years, includes technical training, 5,400 hours on-the-job training and exam. Journeyperson certificate awarded after successful completion. As an apprentice, you also earn while you learn.

Jamie & Norm

Jerome

Pat

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Hourly Pay

Contact the local union for more information on hourly pay, benefits, pensions and more.

Projected Retirement

8,700 + 
Projected construction worker retirements in the next decade

*BuildForce Canada

Did You Know?

The International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Union, AFL-CIO (IW), is a proud trade association whose beginnings go back to the 1890s. The IW represents 120,000 members in North America.