Ironworkers erect the structural steel and iron that hold up bridges, buildings, and towers — hoisting and connecting beams, girders, and columns hundreds of feet in the air. They also place and tie reinforcing bars (rebar) that strengthen concrete, and install architectural metalwork like curtain walls, railings, and stairs. It's a trade built on precision rigging, working from blueprints, and total comfort with heights.

• ✓ Connect columns, beams, and girders with bolts, following blueprints and instructions from supervisors.
• ✓ Bolt aligned structural steel members in position for permanent riveting, bolting, or welding into place.
• ✓ Fasten structural steel members to hoist cables, using chains, cables, or rope.
• ✓ Hoist steel beams, girders, or columns into place, using cranes or by signaling hoisting equipment operators to lift and position structural steel members.

Prevailing wage is set per county and local, so actual pay varies by employer and location. Source: ACT Ohio county prevailing-wage schedules.

Typical Entry Requirement — A high school diploma or GED is the standard minimum; no four-year degree is required.

Apprenticeship Path — Most ironworkers enter the trade through a 3-to-4-year apprenticeship sponsored by the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers, combining paid on-the-job training with in-class instruction.

Core Coursework — Blueprint reading, rigging and crane signaling, welding, and fall-protection safety are emphasized throughout the apprenticeship.

Certifications — Many ironworkers pursue welding certifications, OSHA 10/30 safety credentials, and crane signal-person certification to qualify for specialized or higher-hazard work.