Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers
O*NET 47-2171.00 · SOC 47-2171
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker is a risky career choice. Median pay is $59k a year with -5.3% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 1,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Cut rebar to specified lengths using saws or shears
- →Bend rebar into required shapes using hand tools or machines
- →Position and tie rebar together with wire before concrete pours
- →Read blueprints to determine rebar placement and spacing
- →Secure rebar cages in place using chairs and supports
Education & How to Get In
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers is projected to decline 5.3% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·50% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker make?
The median Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker earns $59k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker jobs?
Our model puts Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker at 53 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 50% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 5.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 1,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker?
Most Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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