Boilermakers vs Structural Iron & Steel Workers
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Overview
Both Boilermakers and Structural Iron & Steel Workers offer solid blue-collar careers with strong earning potential and job security. Boilermakers earn a median of $73,340 versus $62,700 for Structural Iron & Steel Workers—a $10,640 difference. Both require 3-4 year apprenticeships and project 4.5-5.9% growth through 2034. Boilermakers focus on constructing and maintaining steam boilers and pressure vessels in industrial settings, while Structural Iron & Steel Workers erect the steel framework of buildings, bridges, and infrastructure. Both trades demand physical strength, technical skills, and attention to safety. The choice often comes down to work environment preferences and specialization interests.
Salary Breakdown
Boilermakers hold a 17% salary advantage at $73,340 median versus $62,700 for Structural Iron & Steel Workers. Entry-level Boilermakers start around $45,000-50,000, while experienced professionals can earn $90,000-110,000+. Structural Iron & Steel Workers typically start at $40,000-45,000 with top earners reaching $85,000-95,000. Both trades offer substantial overtime opportunities, especially during construction booms or maintenance shutdowns. Specialized Boilermaker work in nuclear facilities or refineries commands premium pay. Structural workers earn extra for high-rise work and hazardous conditions. Geographic location significantly impacts both trades, with industrial areas and major cities offering higher compensation.
Work Environment
Boilermakers work primarily indoors in power plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities, dealing with confined spaces, high temperatures, and heavy machinery. They face exposure to welding fumes and industrial chemicals but typically have more predictable schedules. Structural Iron & Steel Workers work mostly outdoors at construction sites, dealing with heights, weather exposure, and varying terrain. They face risks from falls and moving equipment but enjoy more diverse project locations. Both trades require physical strength, stamina, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Travel varies—Boilermakers may work extended shutdowns at distant facilities, while Structural workers follow construction projects regionally.
Career Growth
Boilermakers can advance to supervisor, inspector, or project manager roles, with specialized paths in nuclear, petrochemical, or marine vessel work. Business ownership opportunities exist in maintenance services and specialized fabrication. Experienced Boilermakers often become trainers or safety coordinators, with earning potential exceeding $100,000. Structural Iron & Steel Workers can progress to foreman, superintendent, or project manager positions. Specializations include high-rise construction, bridge work, or ornamental ironwork. Many start their own steel erection companies or become crane operators. Both trades offer pathways to construction management, with experienced professionals earning $80,000-120,000+ in leadership roles.
Who should choose Boilermakers?
Choose Boilermaker if you prefer working with complex mechanical systems and enjoy problem-solving in industrial environments. This trade suits detail-oriented individuals who don't mind confined spaces and want higher earning potential. You'll thrive if you're comfortable with welding, precision work, and following strict safety protocols. Boilermaking appeals to those who like variety—from new construction to maintenance and repair. The work requires patience and technical aptitude, making it ideal for methodical workers who take pride in maintaining critical infrastructure that powers our economy.
Typical path: Boilermakers union apprenticeship; combines shop and field training
Explore Boilermakers →Who should choose Structural Iron & Steel Workers?
Choose Structural Iron & Steel Work if you're comfortable with heights and enjoy seeing buildings rise from the ground up. This trade suits adventurous individuals who prefer outdoor work and diverse project locations. You'll thrive if you have good balance, spatial awareness, and teamwork skills—coordination with crane operators and fellow ironworkers is crucial. The work appeals to those who want variety in their daily routine and take pride in creating the skeletal framework of modern infrastructure. It's ideal for workers who enjoy the camaraderie of construction crews and the satisfaction of visible, lasting results.
Typical path: Ironworkers union apprenticeship; combines classroom and field training
Explore Structural Iron & Steel Workers →The Bottom Line
Both trades offer excellent careers with strong unions and job security. Choose Boilermaker for higher pay and industrial specialization, or Structural Iron & Steel Work for construction variety and outdoor environments. Your comfort with heights versus confined spaces often makes the decision.