Occupation Details
Structural Iron and Steel Workers
Raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members to form completed structures or structural frameworks. May erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Working Conditions
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
Relationships
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$52,410.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$76,220.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$102,930.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
4,080
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
5,080
+100 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
568
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.3%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Some Training - Certificate or hands-on training
Experience Requirements
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education Requirements
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Earn While You Learn: Discover hands-on training opportunities that combine paid work experience with classroom instruction for this career path.
AT Ironworkers JAC District I (Local 440)
Utica, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Ironworkers, Local Union #440, (District I - Utica), will conduct a recruitment from February 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026 for five ironworker (outside) apprentices Please note that the openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for the Central, Mohawk Valley, and North Country regions.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Proof will be required after selection and prior to indenture. Must have a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must pass a drug test and physical exam, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to indenture. Must have a drivers license to operate company vehicles. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and related instruction. Must reside within the jurisdiction of Local Union #440. This includes the following: The counties of Oneida, Herkimer, Otsego, and Lewis. Madison County the townships Eaton, Madison, Lebanon, Earlville, Brookfield, Smyrna, Sherburne, Columbus, Plymouth, N. Norwich, and New Berlin. Hamilton County the townships of Indian Lake, Arietta, Lake Pleasant, Speculator, and Morehouse. Fulton County the townships of Oppenheim, Stratford, and Ephratah. Montgomery the townships of Minden, St. Johnsville, Palatine, and Canajoharie. Must be physically able to perform the work of an ironworker (outside), which may include: Lifting objects weighing 30-100 lbs. Climbing and working at heights of 100 feet or more. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. Proof is required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must provide a copy of birth certificate, Social Security card, and current certifications, drivers license after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at Local Union #440, 10 Main St, Suite 100, Whitesboro, NY on Tuesday and Wednesday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and every third Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., excluding legal holidays, during the entire recruitment period. Applications are also available Monday through Friday by calling the Union Hall at (315) 735-4531 or by visiting the Working Solutions One-Stop Career Center at 207 Genesee Street, 2nd Floor, Utica, NY, during normal business hours. All applications must be received no later than January 31, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Local Union # 440 at (315) 735-4531. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers)
Program Dates
Contact Information
Utica, NY 13502
AT Ironworkers Local #33 JATC
Rochester, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Ironworkers, Local Union #33, will conduct a recruitment from March 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026 for 10 Ironworker (Outside) apprentices. Please note that the 10 openings listed for Ironworker apprentices represent the total number for three recruitment regions - the Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, and Western regions. Applications are available and can be completed online Monday through Sunday during the recruitment period at: https://www.ironworkers33.org , or by downloading and using the mobile app IW 33. Please contact Stephen Tavernia at (585) 288-2630, or stavernia@ironworkers33.org with any technical questions. Applications can be completed in-person at 650 Trabold Road, Rochester, NY 14624, Monday through Friday from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm, except on legal holidays. All applications must be received by February 28, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship program. Must sign an affidavit stating that they are physically able to do the work of an Ironworker (outside), which may include: Working at heights, on or off ladders, with materials and tools. Walking, climbing, bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying. Working a full day of strenuous physical labor. Working on building erection jobs, on bridges, and on open wall reinforcing jobs. Working on ornamental work, on sheeting jobs, on rigging jobs, and on welding structural jobs. Constantly bending and reaching while connecting, bolting up, rigging, placing, and tying reinforcing bars, placing metal sheeting and decking on buildings, putting up metal window sashes or stair railings and setting up welding equipment. There is no light work in the Ironworker trade. Lifting and carrying heavy steel no matter what phase of the trade they are working in. Must pass a drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship program. Must have a valid NYS drivers license. Apprentices will be required to drive company vehicles on public streets. Must provide a copy of NYS drivers license and Social Security card if accepted into the apprenticeship program. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must arrive to the job and to school on time. The unions jurisdiction includes the counties of Allegheny, Chemung, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates. Must be willing to work overtime when required. Must join the union and remit within 60 days, the Apprenticeship Initiation Fee, which is $100, plus the first months dues (currently $33 per month for apprentices).
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Ironworkers Local Union #33 at (585) 288-2630. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers). Our Union is committed to supplying well trained, drug free, men and women that work safely and efficiently to signatory contractors in our area, and secure by legal and proper means adequate wages, benefits, and working conditions for their labor.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Rochester, NY 14624
AT Ironworkers JAC District II (Local 440)
Utica, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for Ironworkers, Local Union #440, (District II - Utica), will conduct a recruitment from February 1, 2025 through January 31, 2026 for five ironworker (outside) apprentices. Please note that the openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for the North Country regions.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Proof will be required after selection and prior to indenture. Must have a high school diploma or high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Proof will be required after selection and prior to indenture. Must pass a drug test and physical exam, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to indenture. Must have a valid drivers license to operate company vehicles. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and related instruction. Must reside within the jurisdiction of Local Union #440. This includes the following: The counties of St. Lawrence and Franklin. In Hamilton County the township of Long Lake. Jefferson County the townships of Antwerp, Philadelphia, Wilna, Champion, Copenhagen, and West Carthage. Must be physically able to perform the work of an ironworker (outside), which may include: Lifting objects weighing 30-100 lbs. Climbing and working at heights of 100 feet or more. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. Proof is required after selection and prior to indenture. Must provide a copy of birth certificate, Social Security card, and current certifications, after selection and prior to indenture. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to indenture.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at Local Union #440, 10 Main St, Suite 100, Whitesboro, NY on Tuesday and Wednesday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and every third Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., excluding legal holidays, during the entire recruitment period. Applications are also available Monday through Friday by calling the Union Hall at (315) 735-4531 or by visiting the Working Solutions One-Stop Career Center at 207 Genesee Street, 2nd Floor, Utica, NY, Monday through Friday, during normal business hours. All applications must be received no later than January 31, 2026.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Local Union # 440 at (315) 735-4531. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers)
Program Dates
Contact Information
Utica, NY 13502
AT Int'l Association of Bridge, Struc. Ornamental & Reinfc. Ironworkers LU #417
Wallkill, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship Committee for Ironworkers, Local Union #417, will conduct a recruitment from October 14, 2025, through October 13, 2026, for ten Ironworker (Outside) apprentices. Applications must be completed, in person only, at Local Union #417, 583 Route 32, Wallkill, NY 12589, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. All applications must be received no later than May 31, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Proof will be required. Must be physically able to perform the work of an Ironworker as determined by a physical agility test conducted by Local Union #417, which includes: Climbing a ladder 40 feet and not afraid of heights. Climbing a column. Walking on a beam. Pulling a 40-pound bucket. Carrying and moving 80 pounds reinforcing rods from one location to another. Demonstrating any applicable trade-related skills, such as welding, burning, and tying of reinforcing bars Must pass a drug screening at an approved facility, at unions expense, if required, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school within the jurisdiction of Local Union #417. This includes the following counties: Dutchess, Orange, Putman, Rockland, Sullivan, and Ulster. Must reside within the jurisdiction (as mentioned above) of Local Union #417 and be resident of one of these counties. Must have a valid drivers license. Apprentices may be required to operate company vehicles. Must have ability to purchase tools as needed. Tools will cost approximately $500. Must be able to read a ruler. Must have hand-eye coordination. Must be able to calculate basic applications.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Ironworkers Local Union #417 at (845) 566-8417. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers) Ironworkers Local # 417 is chartered by the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental & Reinforcing Ironworkers and is affiliated with the NYS AFL-CIO. Our Office and Training Facility are located in the Town of Newburgh in the beautiful Hudson Valley.Our goal is to obtain work under covered employment for our members, and to supply our union contractors with well-trained, highly-skilled Ironworkers for jobs performed within our jurisdiction.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Wallkill, NY 12589
AT Ironworkers Local #60
Syracuse, NY
Announcement
Ironworkers will conduct a recruitment from April 29, 2025 through April 18, 2026 for 20 Ironworker (Outside) apprentices, the New York State Department of Labor announced today. Please note that the openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for four recruitment regions - the Central, Finger Lakes, North Country and Southern regions of the state.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must take a basic math and detail accuracy assessment test during the interview process. Must be in good physical condition and pass an agility test, which includes climbing ladders and working at heights. Must take and pass drug test, at the expense of the sponsor after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must provide military transfer card or discharge form DD-214, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must provide a copy of birth certificate at the time of appointment. Must have reliable transportation to and from work and required classes at the approved school. Must possess a valid NYS drivers license in order to operate company vehicles. Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must be a resident of Ironworkers Local Union #60 jurisdiction for at least six months prior to recruitment. The jurisdiction includes the counties of Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Jefferson, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego, Seneca, Schuyler, Tioga, Tompkins, and Wayne.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained at JATC for Ironworkers Local Union #60, 500 West Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13204 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications may also be obtained at www.ironworkers60.org. All applications must be received no later than April 23, 2026. Applicants will be given a basic math and detail accuracy assessment test during the interview process. The application must be completed in its entirety and submitted with two letters of recommendation from previous employers. Recent graduates may submit letters of recommendation from teachers, school officials etc.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact JATC for Ironworkers Local Union #60 at (315) 422-8200. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center. Located in Syracuse, New York local 60 is a member of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Ironworkers Union.For over 100 years Ironworkers of Local 60 have been building the bridges, buildings, schools, factories, power plants, hospitals, stadiums and other structures in central New York. Our members are proud to continue the tradition of providing the ironworking industry with a hardworking, highly skilled and dedicated workforce.From LU #60's website: In partnership with our many contractors we have a commitment to excellence, to ensure projects are safe, completed on time and under budget. We have always believed that education and training is the cornerstone of our local. A well trained worker is always in demand. We provide extensive training through our Apprenticeship program as well as journeymen upgrading.
Program Dates
Contact Information
Syracuse, NY 13204
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Concern for Others
Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
Leadership
Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Social Orientation
Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air compressors
- Blow torches
- Bolt cutters
- Bull pins
- C clamps
- Center punches
- Chalk lines
- Cold chisels
- Combination squares
- Crowbars
- Cutoff saws
- Decoilers
- Drift pins
- Ear plugs
- Electric drills
- Fire extinguishers
- Flat head screwdrivers
- Forging dies
- Grout mixers
- Hacksaws
- Hammers
- Hard hats
- Hydraulic pumps
- Jacks
- Ladders
- Laser levels
- Life preservers
- Notebook computers
Technology
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Cost estimating software
- Inventory tracking software
- Project scheduling software
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- set up specialized rigging
- maintain welding machines or equipment
- position, align, or level machines, equipment, or structures
- verify levelness or verticality, using level or plumb bob
- use combination welding procedures
- work as a team member
- adhere to safety procedures
- perform safety inspections in construction or resource extraction setting
- perform safety inspections in industrial, manufacturing or repair setting
- identify properties of metals for repair or fabrication activities
- recognize characteristics of metals
- identify base metals for welding
- recognize characteristics of alloys
- make independent judgment in assembly procedures
- determine project methods and procedures
- use precision measuring tools or equipment
- use hand or power tools
- use measuring devices in construction or extraction work
- use acetylene welding/cutting torch
- weld together metal parts, components, or structures
- burn (cut), trim, or scarf metal objects
- use turnbuckle in structural repair or assembly work
- use arc welding equipment
- operate hoist, winch, or hydraulic boom
- signal directions or warnings to coworkers
- read blueprints
- read specifications
- build or repair structures in construction, repair, or manufacturing setting
- erect scaffold
- move or fit heavy objects
- install insulating materials
- file, sand, grind, or polish metal or plastic objects
- cut metal or plastic
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Read specifications or blueprints to determine the locations, quantities, or sizes of materials required.
- 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.
- Verify vertical and horizontal alignment of structural steel members, using plumb bobs, laser equipment, transits, or levels.
- Hoist steel beams, girders, or columns into place, using cranes or signaling hoisting equipment operators to lift and position structural steel members.
- Cut, bend, or weld steel pieces, using metal shears, torches, or welding equipment.
- Erect metal or precast concrete components for structures, such as buildings, bridges, dams, towers, storage tanks, fences, or highway guard rails.
- Force structural steel members into final positions, using turnbuckles, crowbars, jacks, or hand tools.
- Pull, push, or pry structural steel members into approximate positions for bolting into place.
- Unload and position prefabricated steel units for hoisting, as needed.
- Drive drift pins through rivet holes to align rivet holes in structural steel members with corresponding holes in previously placed members.
- Assemble hoisting equipment or rigging, such as cables, pulleys, or hooks, to move heavy equipment or materials.
- Fabricate metal parts, such as steel frames, columns, beams, or girders, according to blueprints or instructions from supervisors.
- Ride on girders or other structural steel members to position them, or use rope to guide them into position.
- Dismantle structures or equipment.
- Hold rivets while riveters use air hammers to form heads on rivets.
- Insert sealing strips, wiring, insulating material, ladders, flanges, gauges, or valves, depending on types of structures being assembled.
- Place blocks under reinforcing bars used to reinforce floors.
- Catch hot rivets in buckets and insert rivets in holes, using tongs.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
Structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn More