Ironworker (Generalist)

Career Pathway Ironworker (Generalist) Also known as: Reinforcing Ironworker; Structural Steel Worker; Metal Fabricator; Rebar Worker Salary range: Average: $40.27/hour Range: $31.28 – 48.00/hour Source: Government of Canada Job Bank Work type: Full-time; shift work; rotational work Work environment: Ironworkers use skill and precision to create impressive structures. Their job offers variety and ongoing opportunities to learn and grow. They have access to cutting-edge tools and technology in doing handson work. They work closely with other members of the project and site team in getting the job done safely and efficiently. They primarily work outdoors and have a sense of pride in the finished output. JOB DESCRIPTION Ironworkers are involved in the ironwork portion of the construction of buildings, bridges, highways, dams and other structures and equipment. They fabricate, hoist, install, repair and service structural ironwork, precast concrete, concrete reinforcing materials, curtain walls, and other metals used in construction. They handle the structural and metal fabrication work necessary for building wind, solar, hydro and other green energy infrastructure. GENERAL JOB TASKS Assist in the construction, installation and maintenance of structural and reinforcing frameworks. Install and secure steel beams, precast concrete components, and reinforcing steel (rebar) for buildings and other structures. Use welding, bolting and riveting techniques to secure steel components. Operate heavy machinery such as cranes, hoists, and rigging equipment to lift and position steel. Cut and fabricate metal components as needed for custom installations. Examine structures and equipment for deterioration, defects and non-compliance with specifications. Read and interpret blueprints, drawings and specifications to determine layout and job requirements. TRAINING To become a Journeyperson Welder, an individual must compete the certification examination to be granted a Certificate of Qualification (Red Seal – Ironworker). A Certificate of Qualification is not compulsory in Newfoundland and Labrador to work as Ironworker, however registered apprentices and journeypersons often have better career options, job security and wages. To achieve Certificate of Qualification, individuals can explore one of the following pathways: Pre-Employment Program Individuals with limited or no recent work experience in the trade can register and complete a Pre-Employment Program (listed under Educational Options) and then Register as an Apprentice with the Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division (ATCD). Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills. Recognition of Prior Learning Individuals with acquired learning from work experience, life experiences and other formal training, which may be equivalent to certain components of apprenticeship training programs, can contact an Apprenticeship Program Officer to discuss Recognition of Prior Learning. Trade Qualifier Individuals who meet the jurisdictional requirements and have at least one and a half (1.5) times the work experience of an apprenticeship term for a designated trades can have their work skills and hours verified by a certified journeyperson and may be eligible to write the certification examination as a Trade Qualifier. EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS Institution: Ironworkers Education and Training Co. Location: Mt. Pearl Program: Ironworker Generalist Duration: 9 months Delivery mode: On-campus delivery; full-time Cost (tuition, fees, supplies): $11,500.00 (May be subject to change) Entrance requirements: Eligibility for admission requires the following: Minimum of 18 years of age High school diploma or equivalent Mechanical aptitude Good physical shape and agile Learn more about Entrance Requirements here. ESSENTIAL SKILLS Technical skills and aptitude (mechanical, lifting and hoisting, metal fastening and joining methods, hand and power tools) Manuel dexterity Physical strength Problem-solving skills Attention to detail/precision Quality control Document use Communication skills Working with others Continuous learning Occupational Health and Safety OTHER REQUIRED TRAINING/CERTIFICATIONS WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) Certification Standard First Aid Occupational Health and Safety Fall Protection Confined Space Site-Specific Safety Certifications These may be covered in Educational Program or by employer. CAREER PROGRESSION With experience and additional training, Ironworkers can progress into mentorship, supervisory and management positions such as Lead, Foreperson, Superintendent, Project Manager or Estimator. They may specialize in specific areas such as architectural, structural or reinforcement. They may also start their own contracting business and/or move into teaching/instructor positions. USEFUL RESOURCES: Apprenticeship & Trades Certification Division Government of Canada – Career Planning Red Seal Program BuildForce Canada