Structural Iron and Steel Workers
Structural iron and steel workers assemble the metal frameworks that form buildings, bridges, and other structures. They raise, position, and bolt together girders, columns, and beams on construction sites. Some workers also erect metal storage tanks and assemble prefabricated metal buildings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against structural iron and steel workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves working at heights on active construction sites, positioning steel members according to blueprints and supervisor direction. Workers use cranes, rigging equipment, and hand tools to align and temporarily secure pieces before permanent bolting or welding. Tasks include reading technical drawings, communicating with crane operators and coworkers, and performing safety checks on equipment and connections.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this work if you're practical and systematic, comfortable following established procedures and safety protocols. You prefer hands-on problem-solving and take satisfaction in seeing physical structures take shape from your labor.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $110,910 | $120,840 | $124,040 | 2,050 |
| New Jersey | $104,410 | $113,220 | $124,640 | 1,060 |
| Washington | $79,810 | $107,660 | $120,170 | 850 |
| Illinois | $81,750 | $101,850 | $120,640 | 2,740 |
| Hawaii | $97,400 | $99,860 | $111,170 | 290 |
| Rhode Island | $84,700 | $98,320 | $98,320 | 360 |
| Oregon | $74,360 | $96,050 | $100,240 | 570 |
| Minnesota | $89,720 | $95,320 | $98,160 | 910 |
| Wisconsin | $74,880 | $92,820 | $95,840 | 710 |
| New York | $75,690 | $92,610 | $113,260 | 2,700 |
| Pennsylvania | $66,390 | $82,970 | $103,920 | 1,610 |
| North Dakota | $61,820 | $82,120 | $83,990 | 270 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Structural Steel and Bolting Special Inspector — International Code Council
- Principles and Practice of Engineering - Structural (PE-S) — National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
- Structural Welding Special Inspector — International Code Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against structural iron and steel workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-2221.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.