Millwright Job Requirements
Every company’s needs and requirements are slightly different when it comes to millwrights. Some companies are looking for millwrights with several years of experience and experience that is specific to particular equipment, while others are happy to hire an apprentice or newer millwright they can train according to their own standards.
Some companies use different job titles or their millwrights have different responsibilities than at other companies. However, there are usually not any different levels – either the person is a millwright or he or she is given another job title. The biggest exception to this rule is the apprentice. Companies hire apprentices for different reasons, but the primary reason is that it is getting harder to find experienced millwrights for full-time positions. Apprentices earn less money per hour, they may work longer hours, and they may perform less-skilled tasks than other millwrights. The typical apprenticeship lasts approximately four years. For more information on apprenticeships, see the Training & Degree page.
Skilled Millwrights at Work
In addition to training and experience, some millwrights may be required to possess an associate degree, certification, or a college degree. Most millwrights must be able to read and understand blueprints and have good communication skills.
Other requirements you’re likely to see on a millwright job posting include:
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
- Must have a high school diploma.
- Must have a minimum of ten years of experience with refinery/petrochemical mechanical equipment.
- Must have machinist/millwright experience that can be proven.
- Must have monitoring experience using data analysis, pump vibration analysis, compressor systems, lube oil analysis, etc.
- Must be proficient using Microsoft Office.
- Must have experience with industrial equipment such as pumps, mechanical seals, seal flush plans, centrifugal and reciprocating compressors, gearbox, steam turbines, etc.
- Experience with machinery repair standards is usually preferred.
- Experience with new equipment installation is preferred.
- Must have Vibration Level 1 certification or that certification is preferred.
- The candidate must be willing to climb ladders, walk up and down steps, and work at heights.
- The candidate must be willing to work in small and/or confined spaces.
- The candidate must understand that he or she will be working outside, sometimes in inclement weather.
- If located at a distance in excess of 60 minutes travel time to job site, must be willing to relocate. Relocation assistance is not part of the compensation package.
- May have to wear a respirator or self-contained breathing apparatus.
- Candidate may need to be on call and meet on call response requirements and standards.
- Candidate must possess a current driver’s license.
- Candidate may be required to work irregular shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime.
- Candidate must be willing to be part of a harassment-free work environment.
- Must have the ability to speak, read, and write English.
- Must have a minimum of three years millwright or machinist experience.
- Candidate may be required to take a test to prove his or her abilities.
This is just a sampling of requirements pulled from a few different recent job postings. You will find many variations out there!