How much do union ironworkers make?

Union ironworkers typically earn $35 to $55+ per hour in wages, with total compensation including benefits often exceeding $80 to $100 per hour. In high-cost cities, journeyman ironworkers can earn $100,000 to $140,000+ per year with overtime.

Is ironwork dangerous?

Ironwork is one of the more dangerous construction trades due to working at significant heights, handling heavy materials, and exposure to weather extremes. However, modern safety protocols, fall protection systems, and comprehensive training have significantly reduced injury rates.

How long does it take to become an ironworker?

An ironworker apprenticeship takes three to four years to complete. After that, you are a journeyman ironworker. Some ironworkers attend pre-apprenticeship programs or trade schools before beginning their apprenticeship.

Do ironworkers need to know how to weld?

Yes, welding is an essential skill for most ironworkers. Structural steel connections are often made through welding, and ironworkers typically learn various welding processes during their apprenticeship. AWS welding certification enhances employability and earning potential.

Can ironworkers make six figures?

Yes, many ironworkers earn six figures, especially in major cities with active construction markets. Union ironworkers in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and other high-cost areas regularly exceed $100,000 with overtime. Foremen and superintendents earn even more.

Ironworker Salary: How Much Do They Really Make?

Trades & ConstructionAbout as fast as average

Ironworkers install structural and reinforcing steel for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They erect steel frameworks, set rebar for concrete, and assemble prefabricated metal structures. Ironwork is physically demanding work performed at significant heights, requiring strength, balance, and courage.

Median Salary

$64,280

Salary Range

$37,550 – $102,800

Hourly Equivalent

$30.90/hr

Growth Rate

Ironworker Salary by Experience Level

Entry Level (0-2 years)$46,282

$22.25/hr

Mid Career (3-6 years)$64,280

$30.90/hr

Senior (7-12 years)$80,350

$38.63/hr

Expert (13+ years)$93,206

$44.81/hr

Ironworker Salary by State (Top 10)

Rank	State	Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
#1	California	$78,422	$37.70/hr
#2	New York	$76,493	$36.78/hr
#3	Washington	$74,565	$35.85/hr
#4	Massachusetts	$73,922	$35.54/hr
#5	New Jersey	$72,636	$34.92/hr
#6	Connecticut	$71,351	$34.30/hr
#7	Maryland	$70,065	$33.69/hr
#8	Alaska	$69,422	$33.38/hr
#9	Hawaii	$68,780	$33.07/hr
#10	Oregon	$67,494	$32.45/hr

Ironworker Salary by City (Top 10 Metros)

Rank	City	Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
#1	San Francisco, CA	$88,706	$42.65/hr
#2	New York City, NY	$84,850	$40.79/hr
#3	San Jose, CA	$83,564	$40.17/hr
#4	Seattle, WA	$80,350	$38.63/hr
#5	Boston, MA	$78,422	$37.70/hr
#6	Washington D.C., DC	$77,136	$37.08/hr
#7	Los Angeles, CA	$75,850	$36.47/hr
#8	Denver, CO	$71,994	$34.61/hr
#9	Austin, TX	$70,708	$33.99/hr
#10	Chicago, IL	$69,422	$33.38/hr

How to Become a Ironworker

To become an ironworker, you typically need a high school diploma and must complete an apprenticeship program. Ironworker apprenticeships last three to four years and are offered through the Iron Workers International union and other trade organizations. Programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

During your apprenticeship, you learn structural steel erection, reinforcing steel installation, rigging, welding, blueprint reading, and safety procedures. You also learn to use equipment like cranes, forklifts, and various hand and power tools. Physical fitness is essential, as the work involves climbing, lifting, and working at extreme heights.

Ironworkers must be comfortable working at significant heights on steel beams, often without the security of enclosed spaces. Safety training is paramount, including OSHA certifications, fall protection, and proper use of personal protective equipment. Many ironworkers also obtain AWS welding certifications for structural steel welding.

After completing the apprenticeship, you become a journeyman ironworker. Career advancement opportunities include foreman, superintendent, project manager, and estimator positions. Some ironworkers specialize in specific areas like ornamental iron, precast concrete erection, or curtain wall installation.

Job Outlook for Ironworkers

4% growth — About as fast as average

The job outlook for ironworkers shows about 4% growth from 2022 to 2032. Major infrastructure projects, commercial construction, and industrial facility development drive the demand for ironworkers. The need to repair and replace aging bridges and structures also creates ongoing work opportunities.

Ironworkers who can weld, rig, and read blueprints proficiently will have the best job prospects. The construction industry continues to need skilled ironworkers for high-rise buildings, sports stadiums, power plants, and transportation infrastructure projects.

Union ironworkers receive excellent compensation packages with high hourly wages, health insurance, pension benefits, and annuity contributions. The physically demanding and dangerous nature of the work means that ironworkers are well-compensated, and the pride of building lasting structures attracts many to the profession.

Education & Certifications

Education Required

High School Diploma + Apprenticeship

Key Certifications

OSHA 10/30
Ironworkers Apprenticeship Completion
AWS Welding Certification