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Structural Iron and Steel Workers

Raises the steel frames of buildings and bridges.

Typical education to startHigh school diploma or equivalent
Job outlook2025–2035: +3%
Median pay$62,780 a year (2025)
Interest codeRC Realistic, Conventional

Read the full guide

Ironworkers connect steel beams high above the ground, place rebar in concrete, and weld and bolt structures together for skyscrapers, bridges and stadiums. The work is demanding and well paid.

Open the ironworker guide

The guide checks the courses against your plan, with things to try each year. Free account needed.

High school courses that build toward it

  • Woodworking · Career and Technical

    Builds building and construction, which this job uses.

  • Geometry · Math

    Builds math, which this job uses.

  • Physics · Science

    Builds physics, which this job uses.

  • Physical Education · Health and PE

    Builds working with customers and clients, which this job uses.

  • Ceramics · Arts

    Builds design and technical drawing, which this job uses.

  • Computer Science Principles · Computer Science

    Builds engineering, which this job uses.

Ranked by how much the job relies on what each course teaches, from O*NET's knowledge ratings. Your school's own courses and the counselor have the final word.

Structural Iron and Steel Workers on O*NET OnLine · O*NET 31.0 (U.S. Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0); BLS Employment Projections 2025.