Structural Iron and Steel Worker

Structural iron and steel workers place and install the steel girders, reinforcing steel and iron. On large construction projects that involve building, structural steel or concrete reinforcing bar make up the "skeleton" upon which the rest of the project is finished.

The first work for these construction professionals involves setting up the building site. These workers assemble cranes and other heavy equipment on site to move the structural steel and working with design blueprints begin to layout and place the major steel elements.

Much of the structural steel arrives on site, marked, cut-to-size and ready to assemble. Using derricks to hoist the steel in place and using drift pins, or the handle of a spud wrench to align the holes in the girders, the steel is ready to attach. Before bolts are finally tightened, steel workers measure horizontal and vertical alignment with levels, laser equipment, and plumb bobs.