Ironworker Salary Guide and Career Resources

• Training and Experience: As with other skilled trades jobs, ironworkers with more experience, training and certifications tend to have higher salaries. For instance, an entry-level or ironworker apprentice may earn a salary in the range of $35,000 to $45,000 or more per year. However, with additional years of experience and training, a journeyman ironworker could see their salary increase to $80,000 or more annually. Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics for estimates of the average salary of a ironworker of various skill levels and locations.

• Geographic Location: An ironworkers salary can be significantly impacted by the city and state that they live in. For example, certain areas with higher costs of living or increased demand for ironworkers may offer higher wages to attract and retain skilled journeyman ironworker.

• Industry and Job Responsibilities: ironworkers can work in various industries, such as building construction, industrial, large infrastructure projects and manufacturing. The industry in which they are employed in can influence an iron workers hourly wage. Furthermore, specific job responsibilities such as working with large and complex mechanical equipment, specialized materials, or advanced welding techniques may allow a ironworker to earn a higher salary due to the increased skill and certification requirement.

The following websites provide examples of the salary and benefits of a union journeyman ironworker and apprentice ironworker. Also, an ironworker apprentice typically receives pay increases as they progress through their apprenticeship program and become a journeyman ironworker.

Associated Steel Erectors. International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Local 1 of Chicago wage rates - www.associatedsteelerectors.org

Ironworkers Local 444 wage rates - www.ironworkers444.com

Ironworkers Local 272 wage rates - www.ironworkerslocal272.com

Southern California Contractors Association. California wage rates - www.sccaweb.org

• Education: The minimum requirement for entry into the ironworker career field is a high school diploma of equivalent. However, completing training from a trade school or an ironworker apprenticeship program can improve your ability in obtaining a rewarding ironworker job. Furthermore, these structured training programs offer comprehensive training in assembling and moving large machinery, fabricating structural steel columns, different welding methods, mechanical equipment, rigging, signaling, blueprint reading, OSHA standards and safety procedures. Therefore, completing a ironworker apprenticeship or attending a trade school can set you on the right path of an interesting and rewarding ironworker career.

• Ironworker Apprenticeship: Joining an ironworker apprenticeship program is a common pathway for an entry level ironworker apprentice. Also, these programs provide a structured combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training under the guidance of experienced journeyman ironworker. An ironworker apprenticeship typically can last 4-5 years and provides valuable training and experience. For this reason, becoming a ironworker apprentice is a great way to get started in a rewarding ironworker job. For more information on how to become an ironworker apprentice visit the following website - www.ironworkers.org 

• Certifications: Additional training and certifications in rigging, signaling, welding and safety may be needed for certain work locations. These credentials demonstrate proficiency and can open up additional opportunities for advancement and can increase a journeyman ironworker salary.