An ironworker resume needs to highlight strength, precision, and safety — but it also has to impress employers in seconds.

Whether you're working with structural steel, reinforcing bars, or metal fabrication, your document should reflect your hands-on experience, certifications, and ability to perform in tough work environments.

In this guide, you'll find practical examples, essential skills to include, and formatting tips to help your resume stand out on any job site or digital stack.

Ironworker resume examples

Structural ironworker resume sample

Structural ironworker resume template

Resume for structural ironworker | Plain text

John Ramirez
john.ramirez@gmail.com | (312) 555-7882 | Chicago, IL

Summary

Experienced structural ironworker with over 9 years in commercial and industrial steel erection. Proven ability to read blueprints, align structural components, and maintain strict safety compliance. Committed to high-quality craftsmanship and efficient team collaboration on large-scale projects.

Skills

  • Structural steel installation
  • Blueprint interpretation
  • Bolt-up procedures
  • Crane rigging and signaling
  • Aerial lift operation
  • Arc and MIG welding
  • OSHA 30 Certified
  • Fall protection systems
  • Torch cutting and grinding
  • Steel beam alignment

Experience

Structural Ironworker

Crescent Steel Erectors – Chicago, IL | Jan 2018 – Present

  • Install complex steel frameworks and massive support structures on multi-floor commercial projects including high-rises and transit centers, ensuring all work met engineered specifications and city code.
  • Operate cranes and aerial lifts to position beams and columns with millimeter accuracy, often while coordinating signals and radio communication with ground crews.
  • Consistently maintain a perfect safety record by following rigorous OSHA protocols, conducting routine inspections, and contributing to weekly jobsite safety briefings.
  • Mentor new apprentices in rigging techniques, equipment use, and interpretation of structural drawings, accelerating their learning curves and improving overall team output.

Ironworker Apprentice / Journeyman

Bison Structural Group – Joliet, IL | Aug 2016 – Dec 2017

  • Assisted with erection and assembly of prefabricated steel buildings and industrial facilities, using torque-controlled tools and heavy-duty fastening systems to ensure long-term durability.
  • Interpreted detailed blueprints and layout plans to correctly align and install beams, joists, girders, and decking in both commercial and manufacturing facilities.
  • Collaborated with welders, engineers, and site managers to solve installation challenges on complex builds, leading to early project completions without safety violations.
  • Participated in pre-lift planning sessions and toolbox talks, gaining a deep understanding of jobsite safety protocols and inspection processes.

Education

  • Union Apprenticeship Program – Ironworkers Local 1, Chicago, IL (2013–2016)
  • High School Diploma – Kelly High School, Chicago, IL

Certifications

  • OSHA 30 Construction Safety (2022)
  • Certified Welder – Structural Steel (AWS D1.1, 2021)

Additional Information

  • Member of Ironworkers Local 1 Chicago
  • Comfortable working at heights up to 300 feet

Strong sides of this ironworker resume sample:

  • Shows clear growth from apprentice to lead role.
  • Highlights safety record and team mentoring.
  • Focus on technical and blueprint skills.

How to format a resume for an ironworker?

  • Choose a professional font such as Calibri, Helvetica, or Arial in 11–12 pt size.
  • Limit the length of resume to one page if you have less than 10 years of experience; extend to two pages only if necessary.
  • Set margins to 1 inch all around to maintain visual balance.
  • Maintain consistent spacing between entries and resume sections, ideally 0.5–1 line of space.
  • Choose bold titles to help recruiters navigate quickly.
  • Align content to the left for optimal readability and system parsing.
  • Save your document as a PDF file to preserve layout across devices.
  • Stick to a minimalist style without columns, icons, or graphics that might confuse automated screening tools.

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Reinforcing ironworker resume example

Sample reinforcing ironworker resume

Marcus DeLeon
marcus.deleon@outlook.com | (720) 555-2947 | Denver, CO

Summary

Skilled reinforcing ironworker with experience installing steel rebar and mesh reinforcements for concrete structures. Detail-oriented and reliable, with a strong focus on accuracy, jobsite efficiency, and structural integrity.

Skills

  • Rebar tying and cutting
  • Blueprint and schematic reading
  • Rodbuster tools and techniques
  • Concrete reinforcement layouts
  • Rigging and hoisting
  • Steel mesh installation
  • Power tool operation
  • OSHA 10 Certified
  • Trench and excavation safety
  • Team collaboration

Experience

Reinforcing Ironworker

Rocky Mountain Rebar Inc. – Denver, CO | Feb 2019 – Present

  • Install high-tensile steel reinforcements for bridges, commercial foundations, and public infrastructure, coordinating efforts with concrete and formwork crews for optimal sequencing.
  • Interpret complex blueprint details to correctly position and secure rebar cages and mats within tight tolerances, ensuring structural strength and code compliance.
  • Use hydraulic benders, power shears, and rod-busting tools to fabricate rebar on-site, minimizing lead times and eliminating delays from third-party suppliers.
  • Regularly meet with site engineers to review reinforcement plans, making on-the-fly adjustments based on updated field conditions and pour schedules.

Rodbuster Apprentice

Lariat Construction Services – Colorado Springs, CO | Apr 2016 – Jan 2019

  • Assisted in placement, tying, and securing of reinforcing steel for large-scale parking decks, water treatment facilities, and civic infrastructure.
  • Followed blueprints and elevation guides to lay rebar grids, often working in confined spaces and challenging terrain with full PPE and adherence to safety plans.
  • Learned advanced tying techniques and proper tool handling, which increased placement speed and reduced material waste during concrete pours.
  • Supported site logistics and coordinated timely material deliveries, helping reduce crew downtime and maintaining project flow.

Education

  • Apprenticeship Training – Ironworkers Local 847, Denver, CO (2016–2019)
  • GED – Adams City Adult Learning Center, Commerce City, CO

Certifications

  • OSHA 10 Construction Safety (2024)
  • CPR and First Aid Certified (2023)

Additional Information

  • Fluent in English and Spanish
  • Experienced with cold-weather concrete work

This sample of an ironworker resume will impress recruiters:

  • Demonstrates precision in rebar placement.
  • Shows adaptability to complex sites.
  • Adds value with safety and bilingual communication skills.

Should I choose an ironworker resume objective or summary?

A summary for resume is ideal for experienced professionals.

  • It's a 2–3 sentence snapshot that emphasizes your top credentials, technical strengths, and past accomplishments.

Ironworker resume summary sample:

OSHA 30-certified Ironworker with 8+ years in high-rise steel construction, known for accuracy in blueprint interpretation, advanced welding skills, and strict adherence to job site safety. Seeking to contribute expertise to structural projects at IronForm Industries.

An objective for resume suits newcomers or those making a career transition.

Ironworker resume objective example:

Dedicated worker with training in metal reinforcement, tool handling, and worksite protocols. Looking to grow within an ironworking team while supporting safe and timely project delivery.

How to showcase your ironworker resume skills?

The skills resume section gives employers a quick look at what you bring to the table.

  • Hard skills are specific techniques learned through training, certification, or practical application (e.g., welding, rigging).
  • Soft skills refer to interpersonal abilities and work habits that influence your effectiveness (e.g., teamwork, communication).

Ironworker hard skills:

  • Steel framework installation
  • Blueprint interpretation
  • MIG and TIG welding
  • Rigging operations
  • Rebar tying
  • Plasma torch cutting
  • Sheet metal fabrication
  • Bolt-up techniques
  • Concrete embed installation
  • Fall protection equipment use
  • Oxy-fuel cutting
  • Crane hand signaling
  • Erection sequencing
  • Arc welding processes
  • Load and tension calculation

Soft skills for ironworkers:

  • Strong attention to detail
  • Cooperative team player
  • Physical endurance
  • Clear communication
  • Dependable under pressure
  • Efficient problem-solver
  • Consistent work ethic
  • Reliable attendance
  • Organized time manager
  • Flexible in dynamic settings
  • Strong safety mindset
  • Supportive leader
  • Self-starter attitude
  • Calm under stress
  • Ownership of tasks

Ornamental ironworker resume template

Ornamental ironworker resume sample

Resume for ornamental ironworker | Text version

Tyrone Mitchell
tyrone.mitchell@gmail.com | (718) 555-9032 | Brooklyn, NY

Summary

Dedicated ornamental ironworker with experience fabricating and installing decorative metalwork on residential and historic buildings. Specializes in custom railings, fences, and staircases with a strong eye for design and precision.

Skills

  • Metal fabrication and installation
  • Ornamental railing design
  • TIG welding and soldering
  • CNC plasma cutting
  • Custom staircase framing
  • Blueprint reading and measuring
  • Historic restoration techniques
  • OSHA 30 Certified
  • Powder coating knowledge
  • Field measurement and layout

Experience

Ornamental Ironworker

Blackstone Metalworks – Brooklyn, NY | May 2018 – Present

  • Design and install bespoke railings, balconies, and fences for luxury brownstones and landmark buildings, collaborating with architects and general contractors throughout NYC.
  • Fabricate intricate staircases and gates in the workshop using shears, torches, and CNC cutters, ensuring accuracy and consistency across complex projects.
  • Conduct on-site assessments and field measurements to account for structural anomalies and space constraints, reducing installation time and revisions.
  • Restore historic wrought iron elements using hand tools and modern welding techniques in compliance with NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission guidelines.

Metal Fabrication Assistant

Gotham Forge Inc. – Long Island City, NY | Jun 2014 – Apr 2018

  • Prepared custom metal components for high-end construction projects, including handrails, fire escapes, and decorative grilles, based on detailed shop drawings.
  • Assisted in welding and finishing operations such as grinding, polishing, and powder coating to ensure a consistent and professional appearance.
  • Delivered and participated in field installations across residential and commercial sites, supporting accurate alignment, anchoring, and final adjustments.
  • Maintained workshop inventory and calibrated tools, contributing to efficient workflow and minimal equipment downtime.

Education

  • Apprenticeship – Local 580 Ironworkers, NYC (2014–2017)
  • High School Diploma – George Westinghouse Career and Technical Education High School, Brooklyn, NY

Certifications

  • OSHA 30 Construction Safety (2023)
  • Advanced Metalwork & Finishing – NYC DOE (2022)

Additional Information

  • Portfolio available upon request
  • Specialized in historical iron detailing and NYC Landmarks work

This sample ironworker resume is effective for several reasons:

  • Focuses on decorative and custom projects.
  • Includes compliance with preservation codes.
  • Blends shop skills with field installs.

What education should I add to my ironworker resume?

Even in a trade-focused career, education resume part plays a key role by showing your foundational knowledge.

The structure of this section of resume:

  • Highest diploma (high school, GED, or trade certificate).
  • Any apprenticeship programs completed or in progress.
  • Certifications such as OSHA training or welding licenses.
  • Graduation dates, if applicable.
  • School or training center name and city.
  • Relevant coursework in safety, tools, or metalwork.

The experience section in an ironworker resume

  • Start with your title, company name, location, and dates of employment.
  • Break down responsibilities into bullet points that are easy to skim.
  • Emphasize measurable results (e.g., assembled 600+ steel beams without delays).
  • Present positions in reverse chronological order, beginning with your latest one.
  • Begin bullets with active verbs like installed, fastened, operated, or supervised.
  • Mention unique projects or role types (e.g., bridges, factories, towers) when possible.

Conclusion

A strong ironworker resume can elevate your job search by clearly showing your technical skills, safety knowledge, and reliability.

From detailing specific project experience to listing certifications like OSHA 30 or welding credentials, your document should tell the story of a professional who delivers quality results in demanding conditions.

Use the strategies and resume samples in this guide to forge an application that’s as solid as the structures you build.

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