Hire an ironworker in Québec.

In industrial, institutional-commercial, and civil engineering and roads, the regulatory ratio is 1 apprentice per 2 journeypersons (2-1). In residential, it's 1:1. Exceptions allow up to 2 apprentices per journeyperson under certain conditions (apprentice in final period or a female apprentice) — these don't stack. With only 186 new apprentices admitted in 2024 against 3,596 active workers overall, using the higher allowed ratio where conditions permit can help you train more people per journeyperson. This trade's excellent job-prospects rating from the CCQ also means competition for available apprentices is likely to stay high. Since 698 companies were competing to recruit from a pool of 3,596 active workers in 2024, only 966 of them apprentices, using the higher ratio where your sector allows it is often the difference between hitting a project deadline and falling behind.

The CCQ runs a workforce referral service for registered employers. In high-demand periods, targeting DEP graduates from the Structural and Architectural Erection program (offered in Montreal) and workers looking for new hours is a solid move. Posting your openings on construction-focused job platforms also speeds up recruiting. The numbers explain why it's competitive: 698 companies were recruiting structural steel erectors in 2024 against 3,596 active workers, only 966 of them apprentices. Major projects like the Montreal Metro Blue Line extension are pulling from the same limited pool, so building a relationship with the DEP program in Montreal ahead of time can pay off. Rates for journeypersons run $47.85 to $51.32 an hour depending on sector, so factor that into what you're offering when competing for a limited pool of 3,596 active workers.

Confirm the worker holds a valid CCQ competency certificate (journeyperson or apprentice) — you can verify this on the CCQ's employer portal. Make sure their ASP Construction card is current. For work at height or involving welding, also confirm the specific certifications your sites require. Given the physical demands of the trade — bolting, rigging, and assembly work done at height with specialized lifting equipment — it's also worth confirming hands-on experience on the type of structure you're building, whether that's a multi-storey building, a bridge, or an industrial steel frame. The CCQ rates job prospects for this trade as excellent, so strong candidates don't stay available long. Given the CCQ rates prospects for this trade as excellent, with only 186 new apprentices admitted in 2024, credential checks are worth doing quickly before a strong candidate takes another offer.