Millwright

About > Millwright

What is millwrighting?

 The Millwright trade can take you into many fields, essentially anywhere machinery is used. The work involves installing, maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing industrial machinery. You also work on pumps, compressors, conveyors, turbines, monorails, extruders, and a range of mining equipment using a combination of hand and power tools, as well as welding equipment. You may be required to adjust a machine’s calibration to a fraction of a millimeter, so strong attention to detail is a must. Generally, millwrights are conversant with machinery, tool, boxes, and power tools, with safety as the number one priority.

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In the Workplace

Millwrights are elite craftsmen who work primarily with metal and with equipment and machinery that require precision. Your workday may vary between independent and collaborative efforts. At times you could be working solo on a single work order, while also partnering with a team tackling different parts of the same project. The size of your team will depend largely on the company you are employed by, which ranges greatly. It is a physically demanding but rewarding career in one of the oldest and most respected trades.

Career Options:

  • Energy
  • Automotive
  • Refinery
  • Manufacturing
  • Transportation
  • Food processing
  • Nuclear

Moving Forward

Nearly every industry requires millwrights so there are many different paths to choose in your career after completing your apprenticeship. This career has the option to obtain a Red Seal certification. This is a seal on your provincial or territorial trade certificate that shows you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work in your trade all across Canada. Millwrights typically work eight-hour shifts but need to be flexible with their scheduling when machinery breaks down. Travelling could be required for your job depending on the company you are employed by. You may work in a range of conditions both in and outdoors and the job will require plenty of lifting, pushing, pulling, and bending so it is important to maintain your physical strength with the correct safety attire. Typically paid by the hour, millwrights usually work for a union contractor which outlines working conditions, wages, and benefits. From small shops to large companies, there are many opportunities for advancement to a supervisory role or you could choose to start your own business.

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