Position and secure steel bars or mesh in concrete forms in order to reinforce concrete. Use a variety of fasteners, rod-bending machines, blowtorches, and hand tools. Includes rod busters.
SOC: 47-2171.00
Common Job Titles
Iron Installer
Iron Worker
Ironworker
Rodbuster
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform positioning and securing of steel reinforcing bars and mesh in concrete forms on construction sites, using hand tools and fastening equipment to meet structural specifications.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret structural blueprints and reinforcement design specifications to determine rebar placement patterns, spacing requirements, and tie configurations.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate completed rebar installations for compliance with structural engineering standards before concrete pouring, coordinating with site supervisors and inspectors.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate rigging and hoisting operations for heavy reinforcing materials using chain slings, chokers, and beam spreaders while maintaining jobsite safety.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate rod-bending machines and portable hydraulic benders to fabricate rebar according to design specifications, following safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onExecute cutting operations using rebar cutters, bolt cutters, and acetylene torches to prepare reinforcing materials to specified dimensions on active job sites.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate material quantities and dimensions for reinforcing steel installations using mathematical calculations and measuring tools to minimize waste.
Developing
MindsetParticipate in crew coordination and communication protocols with supervisors, team members, and other construction trades to ensure workflow efficiency.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of building codes and public safety regulations when planning and executing reinforcing steel installations in commercial and residential projects.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate automatic rebar tying tools and wire twisters to secure intersections of reinforcing bars efficiently under time constraints.
Developing
MindsetRespect safety protocols and personal protective equipment requirements on construction sites with hazards including heavy materials, power tools, and elevated work areas.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate proper use of rebar fabrication software and spreadsheet tools to document material orders, track installation progress, and support project management.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,140
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $39,470. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,300. 50th percentile: U.S. $59,280. 75th percentile: U.S. $74,190. 90th percentile: U.S. $95,530. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$39,470
10% of workers earn the following or more
$95,530
Workers on average earn
$62,640
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Building and Construction4.6/5
Mathematics3.4/5
Administration and Management3.4/5
Design3.3/5
English Language3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
