Trades in Alberta

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Ironworker (Structural/Ornamental)

Learn more about this trade on the alis website.

  • Wage and Salary
  • Job Postings
  • Duties and Working Conditions
  • Interests, Abilities, Traits, and Skills
  • Career Advancement

Ironworker (structural/ornamental) tradespeople fabricate, construct and join scaffolding, structural steel buildings, bridges, ornamental ironwork and pre-cast structures.They erect structural steel components, install conveyors and robotic equipment, and sometimes perform reconstructive work on existing structures.In general, ironworker (structural/ornamental) tradespeople:

  • read blueprints and specifications to lay out the work
  • unload and stack steel units so each piece can be hoisted as needed
  • erect and install scaffolding, construction cranes, derricks and other hoisting equipment
  • assemble rigging (cables, pulleys, hooks) to move heavy equipment and materials
  • attach cables from a crane or derrick and direct crane operators with hand signals or radios
  • position steel units, align holes and insert temporary bolts
  • check the alignments and join steel parts by bolting or tack welding them with an electric arc process
  • assemble and erect pre-fabricated metal structures
  • install ornamental and other structural metalwork such as curtain walls, metal stairways, railings and power doors
  • unload and install pre-cast components.

Those authorized to perform the restricted activities of this designated trade include:

  • Sponsored Apprentices, and
  • Certified Journeypersons.

For complete information, see Restricted Activities and Classes of Individuals.

Trade Updates

An overview of recent changes to ironworker apprenticeship training programs is available here.

Program Information

Program Information & Requirements
Apprenticeship
  • The term of apprenticeship for an ironworker (structural/ornamental) tradesperson is 3 years (three 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1620 hours of on-the-job training and 6 weeks of classroom instruction each period.
  • Apprentices are expected to demonstrate progress in their apprenticeship program within 18 months by engaging in an activity that will lead to the completion of a period of the program.
  • Apprentices may attempt the Interprovincial Exam in the final period of their apprenticeship training and, if successful, be granted a Red Seal.
  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, the apprentice will receive a journeyperson certificate and an educational credential (Certificate).
Trades Qualifier

You can earn a Journeyperson Certificate based on: Work Experience The requirements for an Ironworker - Structural/Ornamental are:

  • A minimum of 54 months AND 7,290 hours of work experience.
  • A successful theory exam.
  • An Employer Declaration Letter (EDL).

Recognized CredentialsThe requirements for an Ironworker - Structural/Ornamental are:

  • A valid recognized credential from another jurisdiction.
  • A successful theory exam.

Program Credit

Category Information
High School Credit
Related Trades

Applicants with an Alberta or recognized trade certificate in one of the following trades may be eligible for credit towards their apprenticeship or Trades Qualifier program requirements.

  • Boilermaker
  • Ironworker - Metal Building Systems Erector
  • Ironworker - Reinforcing
  • Metal Fabricator (Fitter)

Supporting Resources

 
Description
Description / Resources
Resources
Trade Information Get important information about the duties, working conditions, and skills and abilities needed to work in this trade. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Job Information View job postings in this trade, and learn about the current job market, average wage and resources for finding a job. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Entrance Requirement You must satisfy the educational requirements or pass the entrance exam to start an apprenticeship program. If you are writing the entrance exam, there are entrance-level competencies to help you prepare, as well as an exam counselling sheet and study guide.
Curriculum Guide Get information on all of the program requirements and what you will learn.
Classroom Instruction View a list of currently scheduled classes.
Financial Assistance Student loans, grants, scholarships and other financial assistance may be available. For more information visit our Financial Assistance section, visit an Apprenticeship and Industry Training office or call toll-free to 1-800-248-4823.
Examinations Get exam counselling sheets for your upcoming apprenticeship, interprovincial or qualification exam.
Legislation For more information regarding undertakings, activities, and certification requirements, please review the Designated Trades and Restricted Activities Regulation and the Designated Trades’ Activities and Certification Requirements Order.

 

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