Carpenters vs Structural Iron & Steel Workers
Side-by-side comparison of salary, job growth, and training requirements based on BLS data.
Carpenters
Structural Iron & Steel Workers
Median Salary
$59,310
$62,700
10-Year Job Growth
+5.2%
+4.5%
Training Length
3-4 years
3-4 years
Typical Path
UBC apprenticeship or non-union program; no license required in most states
Ironworkers union apprenticeship; combines classroom and field training
Salary difference: $3,390 (5.4%) in favor of Structural Iron & Steel Workers
Who should choose Carpenters?
Carpenters may be the right fit if you're interested in construct, install, and repair structures and fixtures made of wood and other materials.
Typical path: UBC apprenticeship or non-union program; no license required in most states
Explore Carpenters →Who should choose Structural Iron & Steel Workers?
Structural Iron & Steel Workers may be the right fit if you're interested in raise, place, and unite iron or steel girders, columns, and other structural members.
Typical path: Ironworkers union apprenticeship; combines classroom and field training
Explore Structural Iron & Steel Workers →Frequently Asked Questions
Structural Iron & Steel Workers earn more on average. The national median salary for structural iron & steel workers is $62,700, which is $3,390 more than carpenters ($59,310).
Carpenters typically require 3-4 years of training (UBC apprenticeship or non-union program; no license required in most states). Structural Iron & Steel Workers typically require 3-4 years (Ironworkers union apprenticeship; combines classroom and field training).
Carpenters have a projected 10-year growth of 5.2%, while structural iron & steel workers have a projected growth of 4.5%. Carpenters have slightly better growth prospects.