Ironworker Salary in the USA can be a good question for anyone thinking about construction and skilled trade jobs in America. An ironworker works with structural steel, reinforcing steel, beams, columns, metal frameworks and other heavy materials used in buildings, bridges and roads. The average ironworker salary is not the same in every state, because pay can change by location, experience, type of ironwork, union or non-union work, project size and local demand. In 2026, salary data shows that an ironworker in the United States can earn around the low-to-mid $60,000 range on a yearly basis, while experienced workers in some locations can make considerably more. This Ironworker Salary Guide looks at average ironworker salary, structural ironworker salary, ironworker hourly pay, salary by state, starting pay and other common questions people search when looking for an ironworker job in the USA.
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How Much Does an Ironworker Make in the USA?
An ironworker in the USA works on some of the important parts of a construction project. The job can include placing steel beams, connecting structural members, installing reinforcing steel and working with cranes, welding equipment, tools and safety equipment. Because much of the work is physical and can happen at height, experience and proper training can make a real difference in pay.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for ironworkers was $61,910 in May 2025. The BLS reported a median of $62,780 for structural iron and steel workers and $58,970 for reinforcing iron and rebar workers. Pay can also be higher for workers with more experience, special skills, overtime, or work in higher-paying markets.
Another thing to remember is that an ironworker salary is not a fixed amount across the country. A worker in California, New York, New Jersey or Illinois may see a different salary than an ironworker working in Arkansas, Mississippi or South Dakota. Local construction work, industrial projects and the cost of labor all play a part.
State Wise Ironworker Salary
The following table gives a state-by-state view of estimated structural ironworker annual salaries. These figures are useful when comparing ironworker salary by state, but actual pay can be different depending on employer, experience, union status, overtime, location and the exact type of ironwork.
| State | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $55,964 |
| Alaska | $65,943 |
| Arizona | $59,358 |
| Arkansas | $55,032 |
| California | $67,191 |
| Colorado | $62,154 |
| Connecticut | $65,102 |
| Delaware | $61,691 |
| Florida | $57,640 |
| Georgia | $58,754 |
| Hawaii | $63,670 |
| Idaho | $56,866 |
| Illinois | $62,093 |
| Indiana | $58,474 |
| Iowa | $58,298 |
| Kansas | $58,005 |
| Kentucky | $57,323 |
| Louisiana | $57,920 |
| Maine | $59,394 |
| Maryland | $62,812 |
| Massachusetts | $66,296 |
| Michigan | $59,991 |
| Minnesota | $62,336 |
| Mississippi | $54,326 |
| Missouri | $57,877 |
| Montana | $57,512 |
| Nebraska | $57,390 |
| Nevada | $60,290 |
| New Hampshire | $61,583 |
| New Jersey | $66,028 |
| New Mexico | $56,421 |
| New York | $64,761 |
| North Carolina | $57,889 |
| North Dakota | $60,174 |
| Ohio | $59,315 |
| Oklahoma | $56,324 |
| Oregon | $61,861 |
| Pennsylvania | $60,643 |
| Rhode Island | $63,159 |
| South Carolina | $57,079 |
| South Dakota | $55,361 |
| Tennessee | $56,927 |
| Texas | $59,418 |
| Utah | $58,334 |
| Vermont | $59,790 |
| Virginia | $61,343 |
| Washington | $66,052 |
| West Virginia | $54,856 |
| Wisconsin | $59,924 |
| Wyoming | $58,419 |
| District of Columbia | $67,447 |
Ironworker Salary in California
California is one of the states where ironworkers can find a large construction market. The estimated structural ironworker salary in California is around $67,191 per year. The actual number can move up or down based on the city, experience and the kind of project. Large commercial buildings, infrastructure projects and other heavy construction work can create opportunities for skilled ironworkers.
For people searching for ironworker jobs in California, it is also useful to look beyond the yearly salary. Hourly pay, overtime and project-based work can change the final income. A worker with several years of field experience may also have access to jobs that pay more than entry-level positions.
- Estimated structural ironworker salary: about $67,191 per year
- Large construction and infrastructure market
- Pay can change by city and experience
- Overtime may increase total yearly earnings
Ironworker Salary in New York
New York is another important market for structural steel and construction workers. The estimated structural ironworker salary in New York is about $64,761 per year. The state also has major construction activity around New York City and other areas, where large buildings, transportation projects and infrastructure work can require skilled ironworkers.
When looking at ironworker salary in New York, workers should not only compare the yearly number. The job location, type of contractor, overtime and experience can have a noticeable effect on take-home earnings. Some public or prevailing-wage projects may also have different pay structures than ordinary private construction work.
- Estimated annual salary: about $64,761
- Construction work is available in different parts of the state
- Experience can affect the hourly rate
- Large projects may include overtime opportunities
Ironworker Salary in New Jersey
New Jersey has a strong connection with the construction market around the New York metropolitan area. The estimated structural ironworker salary in New Jersey is around $66,028 per year. Ironworkers may work on commercial buildings, bridges, industrial sites and other steel construction projects.
For someone searching ironworker salary in New Jersey, it is important to understand that the posted salary is only one part of the picture. A worker's experience, skills, union membership, job site and overtime can all affect the final amount earned during the year.
- Estimated annual salary: about $66,028
- Strong connection with the New York metro construction market
- Commercial and infrastructure projects can provide job opportunities
- Overtime can increase total annual earnings
Ironworker Salary in Massachusetts
Massachusetts also has a construction market for workers who install and connect structural steel. The estimated structural ironworker salary in the state is around $66,296 per year. The amount can be different for an apprentice, experienced journeyman or highly skilled worker.
If you are checking ironworker jobs and salary in Massachusetts, look at the complete job offer instead of salary alone. Hourly rate, overtime, benefits, travel requirements and the type of construction project can make a big difference in what an ironworker actually earns.
Ironworker Salary in Washington
Washington has an estimated structural ironworker salary of around $66,052 per year. Ironworkers can be involved in commercial construction, structural steel installation and infrastructure projects. The work normally requires workers to follow blueprints, handle heavy steel members and work closely with crane operators and other construction trades.
The ironworker salary in Washington can vary depending on the exact area and employer. Someone starting an apprenticeship will normally earn less than a fully trained journey-level worker. With experience and additional skills, the earning potential can change over time.
- Estimated annual salary: about $66,052
- Structural steel work is part of major construction projects
- Apprentices normally start below journey-level pay
- Experience and additional skills can improve earning opportunities
What Does an Ironworker Do?
An ironworker is a skilled construction worker who installs, positions and connects iron or steel used in structures. The job is not only about carrying steel. Ironworkers need to understand drawings, use tools safely, communicate with crane operators and make sure steel members are placed correctly.
Depending on the job, an ironworker may work with structural steel or reinforcing steel. Structural ironworkers commonly work with beams, columns and other parts of a building or bridge. Reinforcing ironworkers, sometimes called rebar workers, place steel bars or mesh inside concrete structures to provide strength.
- Read blueprints and construction drawings
- Position and connect structural steel
- Work with cranes and lifting equipment
- Use hand tools and power equipment
- Cut, bend or weld metal when required
- Install reinforcing steel and rebar on some projects
- Follow strict workplace safety rules
Ironworker Salary in Illinois
Illinois has a steady market for construction and structural steel work, especially around larger cities and commercial construction areas. The estimated structural ironworker salary in Illinois is around $62,093 per year. Workers may be involved in buildings, bridges, industrial projects and other structures where steel work is needed.
The ironworker salary in Illinois can be different from one job to another. An entry-level worker will normally make less than an experienced ironworker. Union jobs, overtime and large construction projects can also change the total yearly income.
- Estimated annual salary: about $62,093
- Construction and infrastructure projects create job opportunities
- Experience can increase earning potential
- Overtime may add to yearly earnings
Ironworker Salary in Maryland
Maryland is another state where structural steel workers can find jobs in commercial and infrastructure construction. The estimated structural ironworker salary in Maryland is around $62,812 per year. The actual pay can depend on the employer, project, experience and location within the state.
People searching for ironworker salary in Maryland should also check hourly pay and benefits when comparing jobs. Some construction jobs may have overtime or additional compensation when workers spend extra hours on a project.
Ironworker Salary in Alaska
Working as an ironworker in Alaska can be different from working in the lower 48 states. The estimated structural ironworker salary in Alaska is around $65,943 per year. Construction conditions, project locations and travel requirements can affect the type of work available.
An ironworker in Alaska may work on commercial structures, industrial construction or infrastructure projects. Because some projects can be located far from major population centers, workers should look carefully at the complete job offer and working conditions.
- Estimated annual salary: about $65,943
- Project location can affect job conditions
- Travel may be required for some construction work
- Experience is useful for more advanced positions
Ironworker Salary in Colorado
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Colorado is about $62,154 per year. Colorado has construction activity in both growing urban areas and infrastructure projects. Ironworkers can be needed for steel framing, bridges and other large structures.
For anyone checking how much an ironworker makes in Colorado, the yearly salary is only a starting point. Hourly wage, overtime and experience can make the actual annual income different from the estimated average.
Ironworker Salary in Connecticut
Connecticut has an estimated structural ironworker salary of around $65,102 per year. Ironworkers in the state can work on commercial construction, infrastructure and other projects that require structural steel installation.
The average ironworker salary in Connecticut can vary based on the worker's experience and the type of contractor. Apprentices usually begin at a lower rate and move up as they complete training and gain field experience.
Ironworker Salary in Hawaii
Hawaii has an estimated structural ironworker salary of approximately $63,670 per year. Construction work in Hawaii can include commercial buildings, infrastructure and other projects where structural steel is used.
When looking at ironworker jobs in Hawaii, workers should consider the complete compensation package. Housing costs and the location of the project can be important factors when comparing different job offers.
Ironworker Salary in Minnesota
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Minnesota is around $62,336 per year. Ironworkers may work on buildings, bridges, industrial facilities and other construction projects. Cold weather can also be a practical part of construction work in the state during certain months.
The ironworker hourly pay in Minnesota can depend on experience, employer and type of project. Workers who have more specialized skills may have access to different job opportunities compared with someone just entering the trade.
- Estimated annual salary: about $62,336
- Structural steel and infrastructure work are common areas
- Experience can affect hourly pay
- Weather conditions can affect some outdoor projects
Ironworker Salary in Oregon
Oregon has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $61,861 per year. The state has construction work in urban areas as well as infrastructure and commercial projects. Ironworkers can be involved in steel erection and other structural work.
For people searching ironworker salary Oregon or ironworker jobs in Oregon, it is useful to compare hourly rates with the yearly salary. Overtime and the number of hours worked during a project can make the annual amount higher.
Ironworker Salary in Pennsylvania
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Pennsylvania is around $60,643 per year. Pennsylvania has a long history of industrial and construction work, and ironworkers can be employed on commercial buildings, bridges, industrial sites and infrastructure projects.
An experienced worker may earn more than the average estimate. The ironworker salary in Pennsylvania can also change according to the city, contractor, union or non-union employment and overtime.
Ironworker Salary in Nevada
Nevada has an estimated structural ironworker salary of approximately $60,290 per year. Construction activity in areas such as Las Vegas can create demand for workers involved in large commercial and structural projects.
The average ironworker salary in Nevada is not the same for every worker. A new apprentice, experienced journeyman and specialized ironworker may all have different hourly rates.
Ironworker Salary in North Dakota
The estimated structural ironworker salary in North Dakota is about $60,174 per year. Ironworkers can find work on construction and infrastructure projects, including industrial and commercial development.
People looking for ironworker jobs in North Dakota should check whether the position is temporary, project based or permanent. Some construction jobs can require workers to travel between project locations.
Ironworker Salary in Ohio
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Ohio is around $59,315 per year. Ohio has a broad construction and manufacturing base, which can provide different types of opportunities for skilled trade workers.
The ironworker salary in Ohio may be higher for workers with several years of experience or additional skills. Overtime can also have a noticeable effect on yearly income when a project requires longer working hours.
- Estimated annual salary: about $59,315
- Construction and industrial work can provide opportunities
- Experienced workers may have higher hourly rates
- Overtime can increase total yearly pay
Ironworker Salary in Texas
Texas has one of the largest construction markets in the country and has work connected with commercial buildings, industrial facilities, roads and other infrastructure. The estimated structural ironworker salary in Texas is around $59,418 per year.
If you search how much does an ironworker make in Texas, you will see different salary numbers depending on the source and job type. A structural ironworker, reinforcing ironworker and experienced union ironworker can have different pay levels.
Texas also has a large geographic area, so the salary and available work can be different between cities. Job seekers may want to compare the hourly rate, overtime policy and benefits before accepting a position.
Ironworker Salary in Michigan
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Michigan is about $59,991 per year. Ironworkers can work on commercial buildings, industrial projects, bridges and other structures that use structural steel.
The average ironworker salary in Michigan can change with experience. Apprentices and entry-level workers normally start at a lower rate while workers who have completed training and have more field experience can move into higher-paying positions.
Ironworker Salary in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has an estimated structural ironworker salary of around $59,924 per year. Construction and industrial projects can provide work for people with structural steel and reinforcing steel skills.
When comparing an ironworker job in Wisconsin, look at hourly pay as well as annual salary. The amount of overtime available can be different from one employer and project to another.
Ironworker Salary in Nevada
Nevada's estimated structural ironworker salary is around $60,290 per year. Large commercial development and infrastructure work can create opportunities for skilled ironworkers, particularly in growing areas.
The ironworker hourly rate in Nevada can depend on the worker's experience, job classification and employer. Workers should also check whether overtime is available because construction schedules can sometimes require additional hours.
Ironworker Starting Salary
The ironworker starting salary is normally lower than the pay of an experienced journey-level worker. Many people enter the trade through an apprenticeship where they learn the job while also working on real construction projects.
Starting pay can be different across states and apprenticeship programs. A new worker should not expect the national median wage on the first day of the job. As training hours and practical experience increase, pay can move up according to the employer or applicable wage agreement.
- Entry-level workers normally earn less than experienced ironworkers
- Apprentices learn through classroom and job-site training
- Pay generally increases as training progresses
- Location and employer can affect starting hourly pay
Ironworker Hourly Pay
Ironworker hourly pay is another common search because many construction jobs are advertised using an hourly wage instead of yearly salary. To get a simple yearly estimate, hourly pay can be multiplied by the number of regular working hours in a year, but actual income can be different because of overtime, unpaid time off and changes in work schedules.
An experienced ironworker may have a higher hourly rate than an apprentice. Union contracts, prevailing wage projects and specialized work can also create different pay structures. This is why two ironworkers doing similar work may not receive exactly the same hourly wage.
Structural Ironworker Salary
A structural ironworker salary refers to pay for workers who install and connect structural steel used in buildings, bridges and other large structures. Structural ironworkers can handle steel beams, columns and framework and often work with cranes and other members of the construction crew.
The BLS separates structural iron and steel workers from reinforcing iron and rebar workers in its wage data. This matters when comparing salary numbers because these are related jobs but they are not exactly the same type of work.
- Structural ironworkers work with steel frameworks
- Rebar workers install reinforcing steel in concrete structures
- Job duties can vary by project
- Salary depends on experience, location and type of work
Ironworker Salary in Arizona
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Arizona is around $59,358 per year. Construction activity in the state includes commercial buildings, industrial work and infrastructure projects where structural steel can be required.
For someone searching ironworker salary in Arizona, the actual pay can be different depending on experience and the type of project. A trained worker with several years in the trade may earn more than someone who is just starting.
Ironworker Salary in Georgia
Georgia has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $58,754 per year. Ironworkers can work on commercial construction, industrial facilities and infrastructure projects across the state.
The average ironworker salary in Georgia is only an estimate for comparison. Hourly pay, overtime, experience and the employer can all change the final yearly income.
Ironworker Salary in Indiana
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Indiana is around $58,474 per year. The state has construction and industrial projects where workers with steel erection and structural metal skills can find employment.
Someone starting an ironworker job in Indiana may receive a lower starting wage than an experienced worker. Apprentices generally build their pay and skills over the training period.
Ironworker Salary in Iowa
Iowa has an estimated structural ironworker salary of approximately $58,298 per year. Ironworkers may be involved in commercial buildings, bridges, industrial construction and other projects that use steel structures.
The ironworker hourly pay in Iowa can depend on the contractor, experience and project. Workers should check the hourly wage and overtime rules instead of looking only at the advertised yearly salary.
Ironworker Salary in Kansas
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Kansas is around $58,005 per year. The work can include structural steel installation and other construction jobs where ironworkers are needed.
For people searching ironworker salary in Kansas, experience is one of the main things to look at. A worker who has completed apprenticeship training and has more job-site experience can have a different pay rate from an entry-level worker.
Ironworker Salary in Kentucky
Kentucky has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $57,323 per year. Construction, industrial and infrastructure projects can provide different opportunities for ironworkers.
The average ironworker salary in Kentucky can change according to location and job type. Workers should also ask about overtime, benefits and whether travel is required for the position.
Ironworker Salary in Louisiana
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Louisiana is around $57,920 per year. The state has construction and industrial activity, including projects where structural steel and other metal work are required.
An ironworker in Louisiana may have different earning opportunities depending on the project and employer. Specialized experience can also be useful when applying for higher-paying positions.
Ironworker Salary in Missouri
Missouri has an estimated structural ironworker salary of approximately $57,877 per year. Workers can find opportunities in commercial construction, infrastructure and industrial projects.
The ironworker salary in Missouri can increase with experience, additional training and overtime. A new worker should compare the starting hourly wage with the possible future pay progression.
Ironworker Salary in Montana
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Montana is around $57,512 per year. Ironworkers may work on commercial structures, infrastructure and other construction projects throughout the state.
Some construction positions may involve traveling to different job sites. Because of this, workers should check travel requirements and any additional compensation before taking an ironworker job.
Ironworker Salary in Nebraska
Nebraska has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $57,390 per year. Construction and infrastructure work can create opportunities for structural steel workers.
The average ironworker salary in Nebraska may be different for apprentices and experienced journey-level workers. Job experience, skills and overtime can all affect total yearly earnings.
Ironworker Salary in North Carolina
The estimated structural ironworker salary in North Carolina is around $57,889 per year. Growing construction activity can provide work on commercial buildings and other structures that use steel.
People searching ironworker jobs in North Carolina should compare the hourly wage, expected work hours and benefits. The annual salary shown in a job listing may not include overtime.
Ironworker Salary in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $56,324 per year. Ironworkers can work on commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects.
The ironworker salary in Oklahoma can be different from one employer to another. Workers with more experience and specialized construction skills may qualify for different positions.
Ironworker Salary in Utah
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Utah is approximately $58,334 per year. Construction growth and infrastructure projects can create opportunities for skilled ironworkers.
For someone checking how much an ironworker makes in Utah, the best number to use depends on the worker's experience and exact job classification. Apprentice wages are generally different from experienced worker wages.
Ironworker Salary in Virginia
Virginia has an estimated structural ironworker salary of around $61,343 per year. Construction projects across the state can require workers who are able to install and connect structural steel.
The ironworker salary in Virginia can also depend on whether the job is private construction, infrastructure work or a project using a prevailing wage. Overtime may increase total yearly income.
Ironworker Salary in Delaware
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Delaware is about $61,691 per year. The state has commercial and infrastructure construction where skilled steel workers can be needed.
Workers comparing ironworker jobs in Delaware should check the complete compensation package. Hourly wage, overtime and benefits can make one job different from another even when the base salary looks similar.
Ironworker Salary in New Hampshire
New Hampshire has an estimated structural ironworker salary of around $61,583 per year. Ironworkers can be involved in construction and infrastructure projects across the state.
The average ironworker salary in New Hampshire can change based on experience and employer. Apprentices normally start lower and progress as they complete their training.
Ironworker Salary in Rhode Island
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Rhode Island is approximately $63,159 per year. The state has construction work connected with buildings, infrastructure and other projects that can require structural steel.
For an ironworker in Rhode Island, actual yearly earnings can be affected by hourly pay and overtime. A worker with stronger experience may also have access to more advanced jobs.
Ironworker Salary in Vermont
Vermont has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $59,790 per year. Job opportunities can include construction and infrastructure work involving structural steel.
The ironworker hourly pay in Vermont can vary by employer and experience. It is useful to ask about regular hours and overtime when comparing job offers.
Ironworker Salary in Maine
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Maine is around $59,394 per year. Ironworkers can work on commercial construction, infrastructure and other projects where steel structures are used.
The actual ironworker salary in Maine may be different from the estimated state figure. Experience, training, job location and overtime can all affect income.
Ironworker Salary in New Mexico
New Mexico has an estimated structural ironworker salary of approximately $56,421 per year. Construction and infrastructure projects can create opportunities for workers with structural steel skills.
Someone looking for an ironworker job in New Mexico should compare the base hourly rate with overtime and benefits. These details can make a noticeable difference in total compensation.
Ironworker Salary in South Carolina
The estimated structural ironworker salary in South Carolina is about $57,079 per year. Commercial and industrial construction can provide opportunities for structural steel workers.
The average ironworker salary in South Carolina can vary according to experience, employer and project. New workers generally begin at a lower rate than experienced ironworkers.
Ironworker Salary in Tennessee
Tennessee has an estimated structural ironworker salary of around $56,927 per year. Ironworkers can be involved in commercial buildings, industrial facilities and infrastructure projects.
For workers searching ironworker salary Tennessee, it is important to check the hourly rate and expected working hours. Overtime can increase yearly income when it is available.
Ironworker Salary in South Dakota
The estimated structural ironworker salary in South Dakota is about $55,361 per year. Construction projects across the state can provide employment for skilled ironworkers.
The ironworker salary in South Dakota can change depending on experience and project location. Some positions may also require workers to travel to different sites.
Ironworker Salary in Idaho
Idaho has an estimated structural ironworker salary of approximately $56,866 per year. Construction growth and infrastructure projects can create demand for workers who can handle structural steel.
People checking ironworker jobs in Idaho should look at the complete job description. The work can be physically demanding and may include outdoor job sites and changing weather conditions.
Ironworker Salary in West Virginia
The estimated structural ironworker salary in West Virginia is around $54,856 per year. Ironworkers can work on construction, industrial and infrastructure projects.
The average ironworker salary in West Virginia is an estimate and not a guaranteed wage. Actual pay can depend on experience, employer, job classification and overtime.
Ironworker Salary in Mississippi
Mississippi has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $54,326 per year. The work can include structural steel installation and other construction projects.
A person entering the trade may start below the state estimate. With apprenticeship training and more field experience, an ironworker can move toward higher-paying positions.
Ironworker Salary in Alabama
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Alabama is around $55,964 per year. Ironworkers can find work in commercial, industrial and infrastructure construction.
The ironworker salary in Alabama can change with the worker's skill level and project. Overtime and benefits should also be considered when comparing different jobs.
Ironworker Salary in Arkansas
Arkansas has an estimated structural ironworker salary of about $55,032 per year. Construction and infrastructure work can provide jobs for people trained in structural steel installation.
The average ironworker salary in Arkansas is not the same for every worker. Apprentices, experienced workers and specialized ironworkers can have different wage levels.
Ironworker Salary in Wyoming
The estimated structural ironworker salary in Wyoming is around $58,419 per year. Ironworkers may work on construction, industrial and infrastructure projects.
Because some projects can be away from larger cities, travel and job-site conditions can be part of the employment decision. The advertised ironworker salary in Wyoming should be checked together with these job details.
Ironworker Salary in District of Columbia
The estimated structural ironworker salary in the District of Columbia is approximately $67,447 per year. Construction and infrastructure work in the Washington, D.C. area can include large and complex projects.
For people searching ironworker salary in Washington DC, it is important to understand that the District of Columbia is not a state, but it is commonly included in salary-by-location searches. Actual pay depends on the contractor, experience, project and wage rules that apply to the job.
Ironworker Union Salary
Ironworker union salary is another common search among people looking at this career. Union ironworkers can work under negotiated wage and benefit agreements, and the exact pay package can vary by local union, geographic area, classification and project.
Union compensation may include more than the basic hourly wage. Depending on the agreement, workers may receive benefits such as health coverage, retirement contributions and other forms of compensation.
- Union wage rates can differ by local area
- Apprentice and journeyman rates are usually different
- Benefits can be part of the overall compensation
- Overtime rules depend on the job and agreement
Ironworker Apprentice Salary
An ironworker apprentice salary is generally lower than the wage of a fully trained journeyman. Apprentices learn the trade while getting practical experience on construction sites. The exact starting wage can depend on the apprenticeship program, location and applicable wage agreement.
As an apprentice completes training and gains more experience, the wage can increase. This makes apprenticeship an important path for people who want to enter the ironworking trade without already having many years of construction experience.
Ironworker Journeyman Salary
A journeyman ironworker salary is usually higher than entry-level apprentice pay because a journeyman has completed the required training and has more experience working in the trade. Journeymen can handle more complex tasks and may work on larger structural steel projects.
The exact journeyman ironworker salary is not one national number. It can change by state, local wage agreement, employer, overtime and the worker's particular skills.
Ironworker Salary With Experience
Experience can make a big difference in this trade. Someone who is new to construction may start at a lower hourly rate, while an experienced ironworker can qualify for more advanced work and higher pay.
Skills such as blueprint reading, rigging, welding and working safely around cranes and heavy steel can be useful on many job sites. Additional training does not automatically guarantee a higher salary, but it can help a worker qualify for a wider range of jobs.
- Entry-level ironworker: usually lower starting pay
- Apprentice: pay increases during training in many programs
- Journeyman: higher pay after completing training
- Experienced worker: may qualify for specialized positions
- Foreman or supervisory roles: can have different compensation
Ironworker Overtime Pay
Ironworker overtime pay can be an important part of yearly earnings. Construction schedules sometimes require workers to work beyond their regular hours, but overtime is not guaranteed on every project.
When comparing an ironworker job, check how overtime is calculated and whether overtime work is normally available. A job with a slightly lower base hourly rate may have a different total yearly income than a job with a higher rate but fewer available hours.
Is Ironworker a Good Paying Job?
Ironworking is a skilled construction trade with a median annual wage of about $61,910 for ironworkers according to the BLS May 2025 wage data. Some workers earn less and others earn more, depending on experience, location, job type, overtime and other factors.
For someone considering this career, salary is only one part of the decision. The job can involve heavy materials, outdoor work, working at height and strict safety requirements. Training and experience are important for building a long-term career in the trade.
Ironworker Salary Summary
The ironworker salary in the USA varies across states and between different types of ironworking jobs. Current wage data puts the national median for ironworkers around $61,910 per year, while state estimates for structural ironworkers show noticeable differences from one location to another.
People searching for ironworker salary by state, structural ironworker salary, ironworker hourly pay, ironworker starting salary or how much an ironworker makes should remember that these numbers are estimates and can change with time. Experience, apprenticeship training, union or non-union employment, project type, overtime and location all have a role in the final paycheck.
If you are planning to enter this trade, looking at the local wage, apprenticeship opportunities, job requirements and complete benefits package can give you a much clearer picture than using one national salary number.