Ironworker at Pacific Nw Ironworker & Employer JATC
at Pacific Nw Ironworker & Employer JATC in Portland, OR
About This Program
The Pacific Northwest Ironworker & Employer JATC offers a registered union ironworker apprenticeship based in Portland, OR. This Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee program serves the Pacific Northwest construction industry, preparing skilled ironworkers for careers on some of the region's most demanding and high-profile projects. Apprentices receive pay throughout their training.
The program spans four years and combines 6,000 hours of on-the-job training with 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices build proficiency in structural steel erection, reinforcing rod placement, rigging, welding, and the safe operation of construction equipment. Classroom instruction covers safety regulations, technical blueprint reading, load and rigging mathematics, and iron trade fundamentals specific to the Pacific Northwest market.
Graduates earn journeyman ironworker status and are well-positioned for employment on bridges, high-rise buildings, industrial facilities, and infrastructure projects across Oregon and Washington. Union affiliation through the Pacific NW JATC provides negotiated wages, comprehensive benefits, and a strong professional network across the region.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$29
OJT Hours
6,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
4 years
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.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Ironworker
Apprenticeship
Trade School
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