How much does a Ironworker make?
Ironworkers build the steel structures of buildings and bridges. They work on various projects, from high-rise buildings to tunnels. Their job can be demanding, but it also offers good pay. The average yearly salary for an ironworker is about $57,706. This means many ironworkers make a solid income each year.
The salary of an ironworker can vary based on experience and location. Those who have been in the field for many years can expect to earn more. Also, ironworkers in certain areas might see higher salaries due to local demand and cost of living. Here are some average salaries at different experience levels:
- Entry-level: $38,000
- Mid-career: $57,364
- Experienced: $89,636
- Top earners: $109,000+
What are the highest paying cities for a Ironworker?

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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $64,845
Working in Columbus offers steady opportunities in construction. Companies like L&L Energy and United Suburban look for skilled tradespeople. The city's growth supports a demand for skilled laborers.
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Kansas City, MO
Average Salary: $63,557
Kansas City's construction industry thrives, with major projects often needing skilled labor. Firms such as HNTB and DST Systems require ironworkers. This city offers a mix of urban and suburban projects.
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Odessa, TX
Average Salary: $63,378
Odessa provides a dynamic environment for construction professionals. The local oil industry creates a need for ironworkers. Companies like Permian Basin Petroleum employ skilled tradespeople.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $63,009
Memphis has a growing construction sector. The city's revitalization efforts create opportunities for ironworkers. Companies like FedEx and AutoZone need skilled laborers.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $62,605
Tampa offers diverse construction projects, from commercial to residential. The city's warm climate allows year-round work. Firms like Raymond James and Publix seek qualified ironworkers.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $61,580
Nashville's booming music and entertainment industry fuels construction. The city often sees new buildings and renovations. Companies like Bridgestone and Amazon look for skilled ironworkers.
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Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $58,855
Richmond offers a range of projects from government to commercial. The city's history provides unique opportunities. Firms like Dominion Energy and Altria seek experienced ironworkers.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $58,405
Indy's construction sector is strong, with many large-scale projects. The city's business environment supports steady work. Companies like Eli Lilly and Butler University need skilled laborers.
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Fort Wayne, IN
Average Salary: $57,833
Fort Wayne provides a balanced mix of urban and rural projects. The city's manufacturing sector offers diverse opportunities. Companies like Parkview Health and Allen County Government seek ironworkers.
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Springfield, MO
Average Salary: $57,333
Springfield's construction industry is steady, with a mix of residential and commercial projects. The city’s central location offers easy access to many job sites. Local companies like Bass Pro Shops look for skilled ironworkers.
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What are the best companies a Ironworker can work for?

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Garco Construction Inc.
Average Salary: $87,000
Garco Construction Inc. offers Ironworker jobs with competitive pay. They work across the United States, with a strong presence in the Midwest. Their projects range from commercial buildings to infrastructure projects.
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Mortenson Construction
Average Salary: $69,860
Mortenson Construction provides many Ironworker positions. They focus on building large, complex structures. Their work can be found across many states, including California, Minnesota, and Colorado.
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Great Lakes Skilled Trades
Average Salary: $69,709
Great Lakes Skilled Trades offers Ironworker jobs with good pay. They operate in the Midwest, focusing on both commercial and industrial projects. They are known for their commitment to training and career development.
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Tradesmen International
Average Salary: $67,250
Tradesmen International hires Ironworkers for various projects. They have a wide presence in the Midwest and West Coast. Their projects include everything from new construction to maintenance and repair work.
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Tri-State General Contractors
Average Salary: $64,433
Tri-State General Contractors offers Ironworker jobs in the Northeast. They focus on both commercial and residential construction. They have a strong reputation for quality work and employee satisfaction.
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MasTec Industrial
Average Salary: $61,864
MasTec Industrial provides Ironworker positions with good compensation. They operate nationwide, with projects in various sectors, including utilities and telecommunications. They emphasize safety and skill development.
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Peopleready
Average Salary: $61,667
Peopleready offers Ironworker jobs with a decent salary. They work with many different companies, providing temporary and permanent positions. Their projects are diverse, covering many industries and locations.
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Austin Industrial
Average Salary: $61,382
Austin Industrial hires Ironworkers for a range of projects. They are known for their work in the construction of commercial and industrial buildings. They operate primarily in the Midwest and Southeast.
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PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC
Average Salary: $61,135
PHOENIX INDUSTRIAL INC offers Ironworker jobs with a solid pay rate. They focus on industrial and commercial construction projects. They have a strong presence in the Midwest and West Coast.
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LPR CONSTRUCTION
Average Salary: $60,137
LPR CONSTRUCTION provides Ironworker positions with competitive pay. They are active in commercial construction projects across the United States. They are known for their focus on quality and craftsmanship.
How to earn more as a Ironworker?
Becoming an Ironworker offers not only a rewarding career but also the potential to earn a good income. To maximize earnings, Ironworkers can focus on several key factors. These include gaining specialized skills, obtaining relevant certifications, and taking on roles that demand more experience. Each of these steps plays a vital role in increasing earning potential.
First, specialized skills can set an Ironworker apart in the job market. This involves mastering specific tasks like welding, fabricating, or working with heavy machinery. These skills make an Ironworker more valuable and can lead to higher-paying jobs. Second, obtaining certifications can enhance credibility and open up more opportunities. Certifications in safety, rigging, or crane operation can make an Ironworker more attractive to employers. Third, taking on leadership roles or supervisory positions can also lead to higher earnings. Those who demonstrate strong leadership and project management skills often earn more. Additionally, gaining experience in high-demand areas such as construction or oil rigs can lead to higher pay. Finally, networking and building relationships within the industry can uncover higher-paying job opportunities.
Investing time and effort into these areas can help Ironworkers earn more and advance their careers.
Factors to consider for earning more as an Ironworker include:
- Specialized skills
- Obtaining relevant certifications
- Taking on leadership roles
- Gaining experience in high-demand areas
- Building industry relationships



