all about millwright jobs
As a millwright, you build or dismantle machines, perform preventative maintenance, and diagnose and troubleshoot problems. Your mind will be constantly challenged to come up with solutions to fix mechanical problems and keep equipment running smoothly. You’ll work with your hands and tools to fix hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic components such as cylinders, pumps, conveyors, motors, valves, and bearing assemblies.
You are a team player who works with other tradespeople such as machinists, instrument mechanics, welders, electricians, and pipefitters. When assembling large, heavy machinery, you might work with a partner or a crew of millwrights, paying close attention to safety protocols. Working safely and using safety equipment will be the highest priority for you and your co-workers.
what millwright jobs entail
As a millwright, you’ll work in a manufacturing or industrial setting. You may have to work at heights, around noise or dust, in a plant, or outdoors in inclement weather. You’ll usually work 40 hours a week with the possibility of overtime. Most millwrights tend to start work early between 6 and 8 am, but you could also be assigned to an afternoon, overnight, or rotating shift. You could work in a union environment and report to a maintenance supervisor or production supervisor.
average millwright salaries in canada
Millwrights are in demand in Canada. Millwright salaries are between $22 and $35 per hour (or about $45,000 to $75,000 annually) with experienced workers at the high end of the scale. As an apprentice, you’ll start at the entry pay level. You’ll work under the supervision of a journeyperson and earn wages as you learn. The job outlook for millwrights in Canada is expected to be good for several years.
your day to day work
Being a millwright is a technically diverse, challenging job. You must be a Jack or Jill of all trades, doing everything from fabrication, electrical work, machining, welding, calibration, metalworking, and many other tasks. You could do any of the following:
- read and interpret instructions, blueprints, and schematic drawings
- move machinery or equipment using hoists, dollies, or trucks
- assemble and install equipment using hand tools and power tools
- align equipment, using hoists, jacks, squares, and micrometers
- adjust parts, nuts, and bolts using measuring instruments to attain clearance between moving parts
- repair and maintain equipment following preventive maintenance procedures and schedules
where you can work
A qualified millwright or apprentice can work anywhere there is manufacturing, a sector now on the upswing after a decade of decline. You can find millwright jobs in industries such as mining, pulp and paper, aerospace, automotive, food and beverages, or the petroleum industry, to name a few.
Ontario is the beating heart of manufacturing in Canada with the highest number of opportunities for millwrights in Toronto, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, and Barrie. Prospects for millwrights are also good in Montréal, Edmonton, Calgary, and the lower mainland of BC.
what you bring to the table
You have a knack with machines that is complemented by your desire to learn and understand how they work. You like solving problems, such as finding ways to calibrate machines to increase productivity. Your abilities include:
- mechanical aptitude
- ability to use hand and power tools
- ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and drawings
- high attention to detail and accuracy
- analytical thinking / problem-solving
- strength and manual dexterity
- desire to work with your hands
- physical fitness and the ability to stand for long periods
training and certifications
To become a millwright, a high school diploma is required. You'll also likely need to train as an apprentice. Some employers select apprentices from among their current employees who show an aptitude for the trade. You can improve your chances of finding an apprenticeship by completing a millwright certificate program.
Then you must complete an apprenticeship of 8,000 hours consisting of a combination of on-the-job and in-school training. The majority of your training will be during paid work under the supervision of a certified journeyperson. It will take about four years for you to finish all your training and become a certified millwright.
where your career is headed
Skilled trades are in demand across Canada, so now is a great time to become a millwright! Many of Canada’s millwrights hail from the boomer generation. Consequently, many positions will open up as those skilled workers retire.
As a millwright, you have the opportunity to acquire the skills in many trades. Having a wide array of skills under your belt will put you in a good position for advancement. Millwrights can advance into roles such as maintenance supervisor, production manager, or plant manager.