What Iron Workers Union Offers
International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental, and Reinforcing Iron Workers provides top wages, comprehensive health care, pensions, annuities, and safe conditions through collective bargaining. Union ironworkers earn 28% higher wages than non-union peers, with health insurance and retirement security non-union workers often lack.
- Health and Wellness: Coverage includes medical, mental health, substance abuse services with low copays (e.g., $30 outpatient, 10% coinsurance inpatient/outpatient).
- Retirement: Defined benefit pensions, annuities; vesting after required hours with contributing employers.
- Other: Vacation, scholarships, education programs, supplemental life/accident insurance; reciprocity across locals for portable benefits.
Local examples: Local 22 offers $22-$37/hour apprentice pay scaling to $66k-$86k year four plus benefits; total 4-year earnings $219k-$286k.
Ironworker Trade Overview
Ironworkers erect structural steel, bridges, highways, reinforce concrete; work at heights on skyscrapers, stadiums. Physically demanding: requires fitness, math skills, no fear of heights.
How to Join as Ironworker
Apply via local union; process varies but starts with apprenticeship or experienced worker status.
- Apprenticeship (Entry): 4-year paid program; earn while learning. Qualify with high school diploma/GED, physical fitness, drug-free, reliable transport, U.S. work eligibility. Local 22: strong math/literacy needed.
- Experienced: Submit work history, paystubs, W-2s, employer letters, certifications to local (e.g., Local 5).
Contact local like Iron Workers Local 7, Local 22, or 580; attend info sessions. No college debt—apprenticeship beats 4-year degree costs ($46k-$104k).
Key Data
- Wages: Apprentices $22-$37/hr; journeymen higher (BLS median ~$30/hr national, varies by local).
- Job Outlook: Steady demand for infrastructure; union scale ensures security.