Are you intrigued by the world of new building construction? Do you possess strength, agility, and a knack for working at heights? If you enjoy outdoor work and thrive in a team environment, a career as an ironworker might be the perfect fit for you. Ironworkers are responsible for fabricating, constructing, and joining various structures, including scaffolding, steel buildings, bridges, ornamental ironwork, and pre-cast structures.

Ironworker Job Description and Duties

In the province of Alberta, ironworking is divided into three branches:

1. Ironworker - Metal Building Systems Erectors

These professionals specialize in fabricating and constructing metal structures, specifically 2-story, steel-framed metal buildings commonly known as pre-engineered buildings. They are involved in erecting pre-engineered buildings and occasionally performing reconstruction work on existing structures.

2. Ironworker - Reinforcing Tradespeople

These ironworkers are involved in placing and tying reinforcing materials, joining scaffolding, and performing post-tensioning. Their tasks include placing and tying reinforcing steel and post-tension tendons.

3. Ironworker - Structural/Ornamental Tradespeople

This branch focuses on fabricating, constructing, and joining scaffolding, structural steel buildings, bridges, ornamental ironwork, and pre-cast structures. Their duties involve erecting structural steel components, installing conveyors and robotic equipment, and occasionally working on existing structures.

In general, ironworkers rely on their ability to read blueprints and specifications to lay out their work. Their daily tasks typically include:

  • Unloading and stacking steel units for efficient hoisting
  • Erecting and installing scaffolding, cranes, derricks, and other hoisting equipment
  • Assembling rigging, such as cables, pulleys, and hooks, to move heavy equipment and materials
  • Providing guidance to crane operators through hand signals or radios

Specific duties may vary depending on the branch. For instance, metal building systems erectors and structural/ornamental ironworkers are responsible for positioning steel units, aligning holes, and inserting fastening systems. They also inspect alignments and join steel parts through bolting or electric arc welding.

Ironworkers usually work in outdoor settings as part of teams or crews. Their work locations can range from remote areas to urban settings, often involving tasks at significant heights.

Ironworker Skills and Responsibilities

Traits and skills desired in ironworkers include comfort with heights, a safety-conscious attitude, precision, strength, stamina, coordination, agility, balance, and the ability to work collaboratively. A genuine passion for working outdoors in diverse locations is also important. In emergency situations, ironworkers need to think quickly and make decisive actions.

If you're considering a career as an ironworker, it's worth noting the following list of National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes for this profession:

  • 2006 NOC: Ironworkers (7264)
  • 2006 NOC-S: Ironworkers (H324)
  • 2011 NOC: Ironworkers (7236)
  • 2016 NOC: Ironworkers (7236)
  • 2021 NOC: Ironworkers (72105)

By embracing this rewarding profession, you can play a crucial role in shaping the infrastructure of our built environment.

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