Ironworker at (PHL) Reinforced Ironworkers & Riggers JAC (LU 405
at (PHL) Reinforced Ironworkers & Riggers JAC (LU 405 in Philadelphia, PA
About This Program
The Reinforced Ironworkers & Riggers JAC Local Union 405, based in Philadelphia, PA, offers a registered union ironworker apprenticeship focused on reinforcing ironwork and rigging. Administered through a Joint Apprenticeship Committee, this JATC program trains apprentices in the specialized skills required to place rebar and rig materials on major Philadelphia-area construction projects. All apprentices are paid while training.
The four-year program includes 6,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside experienced journeymen, learning reinforcing bar fabrication and placement, rigging and signaling operations, form work, and jobsite safety. Technical instruction covers OSHA compliance, blueprint reading, rigging calculations, and trade mathematics tailored to reinforcing and rigging specialties.
Graduating apprentices become journeyman ironworkers with in-demand skills in reinforcing steel and rigging — specialties critical to concrete construction and heavy lifting operations. Union membership through Local 405 provides access to negotiated wages, benefits, and steady work on Philadelphia's major commercial and infrastructure projects.
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.
How to Apply
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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