The #1 High School and University Resource for Alberta Students
Ironworker (Generalist)

Ironworkers (generalists) work with both structural/ornamental and reinforcing steel materials. They install structural/ornamental steel components, precast concrete members and glued laminated timber products (glulam) and place reinforcing steel in commercial, industrial, institutional and large residential buildings, towers, bridges and stadiums. They erect pre-engineered buildings and ornamental ironwork such as curtain walls, metal stairways, catwalks, railings and metal doors.

Ironworkers (generalists) cut, bend, lay out and place reinforcing steel rods, welded wire fabric and composite materials in a wide variety of poured concrete products and structures such as buildings, highways, bridges, stadiums and towers. While reinforcing material is usually pre-cut and fabricated offsite, ironworkers (generalists) may be called upon to cut and bend them according to design specifications and drawings. They may pre-assemble reinforcing material by laying it out and connecting subassemblies on the ground prior to final placement. They position, align and secure components according to drawings, using a variety of methods. They also place and stress various post-tensioning systems in structures such as parking garages, bridges and stadiums where longer unsupported spans are required. After placing post-tensioning systems, they stress the tendons to predetermined specifications using hydraulic jacks and pumps.

Ironworkers (generalists) prepare the site by assembling the hoisting equipment and erecting scaffolding, cranes, hoists and derricks on the construction site. They unload structural, ornamental, reinforcing materials and organize the material for installation. They connect cables and slings to the components and direct crane operators in lifts. They position, align and secure components according to blueprints using a variety of fastening methods. They also install conveyors, machinery and automated material handling systems. They are also involved in demolition and salvage duties involving all types of construction. Ironworkers (generalists) generally work outside in all weather, although some work indoors in manufacturing plants or underground work sites. Work sites may be in a variety of locations ranging from remote areas where they could be working on dams, bridges or mining projects to urban environments where they could work on high-rise buildings, parking garages, transit systems, tunnels or stadiums. The work often requires considerable standing, bending, crawling, lifting, climbing, pulling and reaching, and is often conducted in cramped, confined spaces or at heights. Hazards include injury from electrocution, falls or falling objects. Inclement weather may shut down projects for extended periods and deadlines and priorities may involve overtime.

Ironworkers (generalists) are required to have good mechanical aptitude, the ability to visualize finished products in three dimensions, the ability to maintain balance working at heights in varying extreme climates. A thorough knowledge of the principles of lifting and hoisting is required as is a familiarity with a variety of metal fastening and joining methods. They are also required to be competent in the use and care of a variety of hand and power tools and equipment such as tying tools, pry bars, jacks, torches, cutoff saws, hydraulic benders, shears, welding equipment, stressing equipment and cranes. They also use crane charts and must be able to estimate and reconcile crane ability with load sizes.

Because of the nature of the work ironworkers (generalists) must be thoroughly familiar with the applicable sections of local, provincial and federal building and safety standards.

Ironworkers (generalists) tend to work in teams and with other tradespeople and team coordination is a large component of the occupation especially when hoisting and placing large, heavy components high above the ground.

Recently Added Resources
  • The Canadian Nursing Students' Association

    The Canadian Nursing Students Association (CNSA) is the voice of nursing students in Canada. For over thirty years, CNSA has represented the interests of nursing students to federal, provincial, and international governments and to other nursing and health care organizations. More >

  • Automotive Painter

    Automotive painters work on the surfaces of motor vehicles, primarily in restoring vehicles to their original condition following damage and subsequent auto body repair. Generally, automotive painting begins when body work has been completed. Some of the duties that an automotive painter completes include: removing exterior trim and hardware; removing... More >

  • Heavy Duty Equipment Technician

    A heavy duty equipment technician is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge, abilities and skills required to diagnose, repair, adjust, overhaul, maintain, operate and test mobile heavy duty off-road equipment. Heavy duty equipment technicians are employed by companies that own and operate heavy equipment, heavy equipment dealerships,... More >

  • Carpenter

    A carpenter is a tradesperson who possesses the full range of knowledge and abilities required to construct, renovate and repair institutional, commercial, industrial (I.C.I.) and residential structures made of wood, steel, concrete and other materials. They can work for a wide array of employers, including construction firms, building owners and... More >

  • WHAT ARE PRIVATE CAREER COLLEGES AND INSTITUTES REALLY LIKE?

    Private career colleges are like people--each is unique. Yet, some generalizations can be made. 1. Private career colleges often specialize in several training areas. 2. Most colleges are located in the main business district of a city or town or in a nearby business area. Sometimes, these colleges are in... More >

  • Canadian Computing Competition

    The Canadian Computing Competition (CCC) aims to benefit secondary school students with an interest in programming. It is an opportunity for students to test their ability in designing, understanding and implementing algorithms. Details are available in the full information brochure. More >

  • Transport Trailer Technician

    Transport trailer technicians inspect, diagnose, maintain and repair transport trailers connected to or moved by a power unit. Trailers include flat decks, dry freight vans, refrigerated vans, tankers, converters, boosters, jeeps, pole trailers, steering dollies, dump trailers and any other commercial pull-type units. Transport trailer technicians inspect, service and repair... More >

  • Apprenticeship Completion Grant

    The Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG) is a $2,000 taxable cash grant designed to encourage apprentices registered in a designated Red Seal trade to complete their apprenticeship program and receive their certification. Eligibility is retroactive to January 1, 2009. The completion grant will be offered to apprentices who complete their training,... More >