Ornamental iron workers must have a variety of skills.
Ornamental iron workers install stairs, handrails, curtain walls and other metal after the structure of a building has been completed, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. They also install prefabricated ornamental ironwork such as metal window and door frames; metal trim and paneling; and motor-driven and automatic power doors, according to CareerPlanner.com. These professionals must meet various skills requirements to be successful in this field.
Duties
Ornamental iron workers hoist pieces into position and ensure that the pieces are properly fitted and aligned before bolting or welding them for a secure fit. They measure and mark layouts for installation based on blueprints and using devices such as squares and compasses. Ornamental iron workers also weld brackets to structural framework, such as columns, and drill holes in metal and concrete using power drills and hand tools. Their duties additionally might include mixing concrete, setting up ornamental fences and digging postholes. They might work with bronze or create frames for mounting glass in ornamental cast stonework as well.
Skills
Ornamental iron workers must know select the correct equipment for a task, evaluate the quality of products, identify problems and maintain equipment, according to OccupationalInfo.org. They also must have strong judgment, time management, active learning, communication and critical thinking skills. In addition, these professionals must have good arm-hand steadiness, manual and finger dexterity, visualization skills and information-gathering skills. Ornamental iron workers also must be accurate.
Environment
Ornamental iron workers must have the strength necessary to push, pull, lift or carry heavy objects. They also must be prepared to frequently stand and walk, twist and turn their bodies, work with hazardous equipment, make repetitive motions and work in areas where sound and noise levels can be uncomfortable. These professionals usually work both indoors and outdoors in all kinds of temperature conditions.
Education
Most employers recommend that ornamental iron workers complete a three- to four-year apprenticeship that combines classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training. Apprenticeship programs are administered by committees of members of local unions of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers or other local contractors' association chapters. To get into this type of program, students usually need a high school diploma or GED. High school courses in areas such as math, welding and mechanical drawing also are beneficial. Some ornamental iron workers also learn their skills on the job.
Outlook
Employment of structural and reinforcing iron and metal workers, which includes ornamental iron workers, is projected to climb 12 percent through 2018. Median hourly wages of these professionals in May 2008 were about $20, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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