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Steel Erector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Steel Detailer

La Plata, MD · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

Please contact Joe Bowling 240-448-3482, jpbowling@capitalwelding.com Company Description Steel Fabricator and Erector supporting clients if the DMV area for 32 years. Great relationship in the ...

Quality Control Inspector

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

The successful candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in project management for a structural steel fabricator/erector, or at least 3 years of experience with a college degree in ...

Scaffold E&D Carpenter-1

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$20.48 - $25.60/hr

... Structural Steel Erector, Tower Hand, Rigger Base Pay Range: $20.48 - 25.60 Starting rate of pay may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, position offered, location, education ...

Scaffold E&D Carpenter-1

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$20.48 - $25.60/hr

... Structural Steel Erector, Tower Hand, Rigger Base Pay Range: $20.48 - 25.60 Starting rate of pay may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, position offered, location, education ...

Scaffold E&D Carpenter-1

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$20.48 - $25.60/hr

... Structural Steel Erector, Tower Hand, Rigger Base Pay Range: $20.48 - 25.60 Starting rate of pay may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, position offered, location, education ...

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Steel Erector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$26

$38

How much do steel erector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for steel erector in Washington, DC is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.26 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a steel erector?

A steel erector typically works in construction, installing, repairing, and maintaining steel buildings and other structures. As a steel erector, it’s your responsibility to install cross beams, girders, scaffolds, sheeting, and similar fixtures. Your job duties include coordinating heavy equipment operation, welding steel components, helping develop building plans, and troubleshooting on-site items. A steel erector works closely with the foreman and engineers on each project. The job often involves working at great heights on multi-story buildings and structures.

What does a steel erector do?

Steel erectors are specialized construction workers responsible for assembling and installing the steel frameworks that form the structural support of buildings, bridges, and other large structures. They read technical drawings, lift and position steel beams and columns, and bolt or weld them into place to ensure the stability and safety of the structure. The role often involves working at heights, using cranes and other heavy machinery, and adhering to strict safety regulations. Steel erectors play a vital role in the construction industry, particularly in projects involving large-scale steel structures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a steel erector?

To thrive as a Steel Erector, you need strong physical fitness, construction site safety knowledge, and experience with structural steel assembly, often supported by relevant apprenticeships or certifications. Familiarity with tools such as cranes, welding equipment, and rigging systems, as well as OSHA safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring safety and coordination on job sites. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure structural integrity, minimize accidents, and complete projects efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by steel erectors on construction sites, and how are they typically addressed?

Steel erectors often work at great heights and in varying weather conditions, which can present safety and logistical challenges. Managing heavy equipment, coordinating lifts, and ensuring precise alignment of steel components require strong communication and teamwork. To address these challenges, steel erectors follow rigorous safety protocols, participate in ongoing training, and use specialized tools and equipment. Regular collaboration with site supervisors, crane operators, and other trades helps ensure projects run smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between Steel Erector vs Ironworker?

AspectSteel ErectorIronworker
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly NCCER certificationOSHA safety training, NCCER certification often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, primarily assembling steel structuresConstruction sites, working on steel, bridges, and buildings
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, steel fabrication firmsConstruction companies, steel and bridge construction

Both Steel Erectors and Ironworkers work in construction environments involving steel structures. While their roles overlap, Steel Erectors focus mainly on assembling and installing steel frameworks, whereas Ironworkers often handle a broader range of steel components, including bridges and high-rise buildings. Certifications and safety training are similar, making these roles closely related but distinct in scope.

How much does a steel erector earn?

Steel erectors typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Skilled erectors with certifications and experience in high-rise or complex projects tend to earn higher wages.

What do steel erectors make?

Steel erectors assemble and install steel frameworks for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They work with steel beams, columns, and girders, often using cranes and welding tools, and require knowledge of blueprints and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Steel Erector jobs in Washington, DC?

For Steel Erector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Steel Erector jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Steel Erector jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Steel Erector job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,296 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Ironworker/Steel Erector

Rockville, MD

Tradesmen International, Inc.
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

$61.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description

Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Iron Workers/Steel Erectors for projects located in the Rockville, MD area. This is a first shift opportunity, and the pay rate is prevailing wage at $61.62/hour. If you are a Iron Worker/Steel Erector and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity, and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career! 

Job Scope:         

  • Connect steel beams
  • Weld structural steel
  • Assist riggers
  • Tie off beams
  • Monitor work area
  • Ensure safe lifting, and installation operations
Requirements
  • Valid D1.1 welding certification
  • Experience with structural steel erection and beam connections
  • Pass a drug screen, and background check
  • Standard PPE
Company Details

Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.

Our comprehensive benefits include:

  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program - earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability

"Be Safe" from fraud!  Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other "up front"  costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.

Click here to visit Tradesmen's full website.

LocationUS-MD-ROCKVILLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME