Millwright
Millwrights work in refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, and industrial sites throughout Louisiana. Unlike general maintenance trades, millwrighting is a high-precision mechanical craft that requires both hands-on rigging and assembly expertise and an in-depth understanding of how rotating equipment and heavy industrial machinery operate together.
What do
they do?
Align rotating equipment
Use laser alignment tools and dial indicators to precision-align pumps, motors, compressors, and gearboxes within thousandths of an inch.
Overhaul & rebuild machinery
Disassemble, inspect, replace mechanical seals and bearings, and rebuild critical process equipment during planned turnarounds and outages.
Install & set heavy equipment
Level baseplates, pour precision grout, and erect heavy mechanical systems and production equipment using specialized rigging techniques.
Read technical blueprints
Interpret mechanical schematics, assembly drawings, and equipment manufacturer specifications to plan and execute work safely.
What you can earn
Wages grow quickly
with experience
Year 1-2
Year 4-6
8+ Years
Gulf Coast Supply & Demand
Why now is the right time to enter this field
Louisiana’s industrial sector is experiencing sustained project activity through the late 2020s.
Demand for millwrights continue to outpace availability.
How do I become a millwright?
FAQ
Common Questions
Which industry certifications are most in demand by employers?
NCCER Millwright Levels 1-4
Do I need an associate degree, or is a certificate enough?
NCCER programs qualify you for contractor helper/entry roles immediately. A two year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Industrial Instrumentation may accelerate advancement into direct plant maintenance and controls roles.
What other prerequisites are required?
- Safety Council Orientation Badge
- Valid Driver’s License
- TWIC Card
Do I have to pass a drug screen and background check?
Yes. Industrial plants, chemical facilities, and refineries maintain strict zero-tolerance policies. You will be required to pass pre-employment and random screenings and clear a background check.
What is a TWIC card, and do I need one?
A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) issued by TSA is mandatory for unescorted access to maritime and petrochemical facilities along the Mississippi River, Gulf Coast, and Louisiana ports.
Can I enter this trade with a prior record?
Certain felony convictions disqualify candidates from obtaining a TWIC or plant security badge (especially related to violence, weapons, or industrial sabotage). Non-violent or older infractions may be reviewed case-by-case through an appeal or waiver process.
Is a valid driver’s license required?
Yes. Almost all contractors and plant facilities require a valid driver’s license to drive inside operating plant boundaries and access remote sites.