what is a millwright?

Professional millwrights are potentially responsible for turbines, conveyor systems, pumps, and more. A millwright goes by many names such as industrial mechanic, machinist, and machine technician. Whatever you are called, this job consists of working with powerful, complex machines. You help to assemble, install, and set up equipment that other workers can use. In some jobs, you'll also perform maintenance, repair machines, and calibrate machines for new tasks.

industries that use millwrights

Millwrights typically work in industrial or manufacturing fields. Many millwrights work in factories or fabrication departments. Some also work for power companies or gas and oil companies. Some millwrights also work in construction, field preparation, and other building-related industries. If a field requires any sort of complex machinery to do jobs, you can find a millwright job in the field.

Would working as a millwright suit your interest in machines? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a millwright role.

millwright jobs near you
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average millwright salary

Your specialized knowledge makes you a very in-demand employee. Millwrights tend to make a lot more than general mechanics. On average, professional millwrights make an annual wage of around $61,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Many millwrights get paid hourly rates, and hourly wages are typically around $30 per hour. However, keep in mind that there is some variation in millwright wages. Some millwrights make as low as $37,000 per year while others make upwards of $81,000.

factors that affect millwright salary

The industry you work in has a huge impact on your salary. BLS data shows that the highest-paying industries for millwrights are:

  • scientific research and development
  • natural gas distribution
  • aerospace product manufacturing
  • warehousing and storage
  • motor vehicle manufacturing

Your salary is also affected by your location. Areas like Illinois, Michigan, and New Mexico tend to pay millwrights particularly well. Another important factor is your expertise and skills. If you take the time to learn how to work with very advanced machinery, you command a higher salary. If you're looking to earn more as a millwright, another option can be working longer hours and earning overtime.

Wondering what you can earn as a millwright? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a millwright is.

factory worker operating a machine
factory worker operating a machine
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types of millwright

Millwrights are usually categorized based on the type of work they do. Here are some common examples of millwright types.

  • automotive millwright: These millwrights work with machines that repair or construct vehicles. They're very in demand in automotive factories or body shops.
  • construction millwright: Construction millwrights work in the building industry. They often work with specialized tools or heavy construction equipment
  • electrical millwright: If you're an electrical millwright, you specialize in machinery related to power. These jobs are typically in places like power plants or dams.
  • industrial millwright: This broad category includes a lot of different millwrights. You'll often end up working in factories or production facilities.
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working as a millwright

Interested in learning what to expect as a millwright? Here are some details about how your typical job will go.

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millwright skills and education

Being a millwright is a skilled job, so people usually cannot start this career without some training. Depending on the job, you'll need these qualifications.

factory worker wearing protective eye glasses and ear muffs
factory worker wearing protective eye glasses and ear muffs
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FAQs about working as a millwright

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about millwrights.

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