What They Do
Millwrights install conveyor systems, escalators, giant electrical turbines and generators. Millwrights install and do maintenance on machinery in factories and do much of the precision work in nuclear power plants. Millwrights are skilled construction mechanics who study and interpret blueprints and then put their knowledge and expertise to work drilling, welding and bolting.
Working Conditions
Millwrights generally work eight-hour days. Apprentices usually start out helping journeymen with basic tasks like material handling and move into more sophisticated jobs as their knowledge and skills increase. Although millwrights work indoors much of the time on installation and maintenance work, their duties also involve working on the outside of buildings and other structures, in situations often requiring the use of scaffolding. Millwrights work with a variety of hand and portable tools and frequently cut, join and fasten metal construction materials using welding equipment and oxyacetylene torches.
Interest and Temperament
People willing to work in different environments and have the ability to work to close tolerances. Millwrights must constantly be on the alert for the safety of themselves and others around them.
General Qualifications
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Physically capable of performing work
- Ability to read and working knowledge of basic mathematics
- Proficiency in the area of basic English
Educational Background Recommended
Good reading ability. Knowledge of basic math, machine shop, welding, drafting, blueprint reading.
Admission Requirements of the Joint Apprenticeship Committee
- "Intend to Hire" letter from a contractor who wishes to employ you
- Must be employed for a 90-day probationary period before acceptance in the apprenticeship program
Terms of Apprenticeship Training
- Length of apprenticeship - 4 years
- Minimum hours of related classroom instruction - 144 each year
- Completion of 8,000 hours of work experience
Related Job Opportunities
Various positions related to industrial and commercial machinery installation
Application and Information
Northeast Ohio Carpenters' Joint Apprenticeship Committee
4100 Maple Drive, Richfield, Ohio 44286
(330) 659-9495 or (800) 601-1800 telephone
(330) 659-6278 fax