Ironworker at Ironworkers JAT, Statewide

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Ironworkers JAT, Statewide in Phoenix, AZ

About This Program

Ironworkers JAT, Statewide sponsors this ironworker apprenticeship based in Phoenix, AZ, serving locations across Arizona. This employer-sponsored program provides a structured, paid pathway into the ironworking trade for individuals interested in structural steel erection, rebar installation, and related work across one of the fastest-growing construction markets in the Southwest. Apprentices earn wages throughout the full four-year program.

This time-based apprenticeship includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain hands-on experience erecting structural steel, placing reinforcing iron, performing rigging and signaling operations, and working with welding equipment. Classroom instruction addresses blueprints, rigging and load calculations, OSHA safety standards, and trade-specific technical knowledge.

Graduates earn journey-level status as Ironworkers. Arizona's booming commercial, residential, and infrastructure construction industry creates strong and consistent demand for skilled ironworkers, making this statewide program an excellent foundation for a career that spans everything from high-rise construction in Phoenix to infrastructure projects throughout the state.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$29

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

6,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

4 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

Ironworker Career Outlook

National Median

$28.82/hr

~$59,945.6/yr

Apprentice Start

$18/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

Ironworker employment is tied to large-scale construction activity including commercial buildings, bridges, and infrastructure. Federal infrastructure investment and urban development continue to drive demand. The trade has a relatively small workforce, so retirements create proportionally more openings. Ironworkers with welding and rigging certifications are in highest demand.

What to Expect as an Ironworker Apprentice

Duration

4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~30 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (6,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)

Paid Training

You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress

Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Ironworker

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration4 years
Starting wage$18.00/hr
Journeyman wage$28.82/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!

See something wrong? Help us improve this page.