What is a Millwright and What Do They Do at Work?

Have you ever considered a career in the skilled trades? If you enjoy working with your hands, problem-solving, and the satisfaction of seeing a project come to life, a career as a millwright may be for you.

Millwrights are skilled tradespeople who are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing machinery in various industrial settings. They work with a wide range of equipment, from conveyor systems to turbines, and play a crucial role in keeping the wheels of industry turning.

The SkillHero app connects aspiring millwrights and other trade workers with training and employment opportunities, tools, and events in the skilled trades.

You can claim your free SkillHero account here, then keep reading this article to learn exactly what a millwright does and whether it'd be an ideal career path for you.

What is a millwright?

A millwright is a skilled tradesperson who keeps the wheels of industry turning. These professionals are trained to work with a variety of mechanical and electrical systems, including conveyor systems, turbines, and heavy machinery.

Their expertise also includes interpreting technical drawings and blueprints, aligning and leveling equipment, and performing precision measurements to ensure the proper functioning of equipment.

Millwrights play a critical role in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and power generation, providing essential services to keep production processes running smoothly.

What does a millwright do at work?

A millwright is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of industrial machinery and equipment. They are skilled in blueprint reading, ensuring safety compliance, and precision assembly of complex machinery.

These skilled workers are responsible for setting up and aligning machinery, conducting regular maintenance checks, troubleshooting and repairing machines, and interpreting technical drawings for installations.

A millwright may be involved in welding, fabricating parts, and conducting equipment inspections. Learning these skills takes hard work, but as with other skilled trades, apprentice millwrights can learn on the job while receiving training.

What's the average salary for a millwright?

Millwrights earn an average salary of $38,440 as apprentices, $60,930 as journeymen, and $82,070 as masters. These figures can vary based on geographic location, industry, and specialization, with millwrights in high-demand industries and regions typically earning higher wages.

Other factors such as experience, additional certifications, and specialization can also influence pay.

Job growth for millwrights is projected to be steady, with an estimated 49,100 new jobs becoming available each year. To learn more about training and employment opportunities, sign up for a free SkillHero account.

Millwright trade paths

There are quite a few trade paths available to millwrights, each with unique focuses and opportunities for those who choose it as a specialization. Choosing a trade path you prefer can help you get connected with the right company and job training.

General Millwright: Work across various industries, maintaining and repairing machinery and equipment using a wide array of power tools and mechanical equipment.

Agricultural Millwright: Specialize in the machinery and equipment used in agricultural settings, such as farm machinery and irrigation systems.

Construction Millwright: Work on construction sites, assembling and maintaining the machinery and equipment used in building projects.

Energy Sector Millwright: Energy sector workers responsible for the installation of machinery and equipment used in power plants and other energy production facilities.

Manufacturing Millwright: Use their mechanical expertise in manufacturing facilities, ensuring smooth operation and making necessary repairs and adjustments.

Mining Millwright: Mining industry workers who work with different pieces of equipment used in mining operations, including heavy machinery and hand tools.

Pharmaceutical Millwright: Specialize in the machines and equipment used in pharmaceutical production, ensuring everything runs efficiently and safely.

Marine Millwright: Marine industry workers who spend their time mastering machinery and equipment on or near water including ships, mills, and turbines.

Each trade path requires specific skills and training, and offers unique career opportunities for those interested in the millwright trade.

Is millwright a difficult trade?

Being a millwright can be a challenging trade due to the physically demanding work, extensive training requirements, and the need for precise technical skills.

Millwrights are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing machinery in various industrial settings, which can require heavy lifting, working in tight spaces, and exposure to dangerous equipment. But the job also comes with many benefits and enjoyable features.

Millwrights are in high demand, have opportunities for advancement, and earn competitive salaries even as apprentices. The work is often varied and hands-on, allowing for a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in solving complex mechanical problems.

Working in this trade is definitely satisfying, but let's examine some of the unique challenges it provides for its workers to overcome.

Is the work physically and mentally demanding?

Yes, millwright work can be physically and mentally demanding. Physical demands include lifting heavy equipment or materials, working in awkward positions, and enduring long hours on your feet.

Some mental demands can include the stress of solving complex technical issues, managing multiple tasks and deadlines, and working in high-pressure situations. These challenges require significant cognitive effort, making this skilled trade an ongoing adventure.

How to know if millwright is the trade for you

If you have a knack for working with machinery and possess strong problem-solving skills and a mechanical aptitude, a career as a millwright may be the perfect fit for you.

Millwrights are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heavy machinery in various industries such as manufacturing, construction, and power generation. This role requires a high level of precision and attention to detail, as well as the ability to work with others such as industrial mechanics.

A career as a millwright offers numerous benefits, including competitive pay during apprenticeship programs, stable and growing job prospects, and above-average compensation that increases with experience.

If you're interested in finding an apprenticeship with a local company or enhancing your existing skills, claim your free SkillHero account to access our full suite of resources for skilled trade professionals.