What Does a Millwright Do? A comprehensive guide

Apr 14

Every piece of heavy machinery—whether in a factory, power plant, or construction site—depends on someone who knows exactly how to install it, keep it running, and bring it back to life when it breaks down. That someone is often a millwright.

This isn’t a desk job. Millwrights work directly with mechanical systems that can span an entire warehouse floor. They read blueprints, align massive components with exact precision, and make sure machines operate as intended. One degree off, and production can grind to a halt.

Before we dive into pay, job markets, and training, let’s start with what the role actually involves.

What You’ll Learn

Core duties of a millwright
Average pay and top-paying locations
Industries that offer the best wages
States with the most jobs
Education and training requirements
Recommended certifications
Job outlook for the next decade

What Millwrights Actually Do

The job covers a wide range of responsibilities:

Installing equipment using blueprints, leveling tools, and alignment gauges.
Maintaining machinery through scheduled inspections and preventive care.
Repairing breakdowns—often under time pressure to get operations moving again.
Upgrading systems with new technology or safety features.

The common thread? Precision. In industries where even a minor misalignment can damage equipment or cost thousands in downtime, millwrights are trusted to get it right the first time.

And with such specialized skills comes the question most people want answered next—how much does this kind of expertise pay?

How much does a Millwright make?

In Georgia, the average millwright earns about $59,040 a year. Those just starting out—or in lower-paying roles—might make closer to $42,810, while experienced pros can reach $73,070 or more.

Nationally, the pay is slightly better, averaging $62,980. The lowest 10% earn around $43,160, but the top tier breaks into the $80,000s, with some clearing $82,700 annually.

Of course, averages only tell part of the story. Where you work—and the industry you work in—can make a big difference.

Where the Money Is

Millwright pay isn’t just about geography—it’s also about the industry. Fields that rely on advanced equipment or operate in high-demand sectors tend to offer the best salaries:

Scientific Research and Development – $82,530
Support Activities for Mining – $82,070
Utility System Construction – $80,670
Waste Management and Remediation – $79,700
Chemical Manufacturing – $78,750

If your skills land you in one of these areas, your paycheck will likely reflect it. But location still matters, and some states stand out for offering higher-than-average wages.

Top States for High Pay

If salary is your main driver, these states top the list:

Massachusetts – $78,540
Washington – $76,960
New Jersey – $74,300
Oregon – $73,450
Michigan – $73,220

In places like Massachusetts, higher wages reflect both the cost of living and the state’s concentration of advanced manufacturing. Washington benefits from its aerospace and high-tech sectors, while Michigan’s automotive industry still demands a strong base of skilled tradespeople.

But high pay doesn’t always mean high availability. To really maximize your chances, you’ll also want to know where the jobs are most plentiful.

Where You’ll Find the Most Jobs

Sometimes opportunity matters more than pay. The states employing the most millwrights are:

Michigan – 2,760 jobs, $73,220 average wage
Texas – 2,500 jobs, $62,250
Illinois – 2,380 jobs, $69,450
Georgia – 2,300 jobs, $57,700
Alabama – 2,230 jobs, $57,010

Michigan’s high numbers aren’t surprising given its manufacturing backbone, while Texas and Georgia’s growth in logistics and construction keep millwright demand steady.

And it’s not just states—specific industries also account for large portions of the job market.

Industries That Hire the Most Millwrights

If you’re targeting volume of job openings, these sectors stand out:

Building Equipment Contractors – 7,990 jobs, $64,930 average wage
Nonresidential Building Construction – 4,840 jobs, $64,290
Machinery Repair and Maintenance – 2,700 jobs, $64,000
Sawmills and Wood Preservation – 2,410 jobs, $58,720
Motor Vehicle Manufacturing – 1,670 jobs, $78,370

Knowing where the jobs are is only half the battle—the next step is understanding how to actually get started in the trade.

Becoming a Millwright

Most millwrights start with a high school diploma or GED, ideally with classes in math, physics, or technical drawing. The real training happens through a 3–4 year apprenticeship that combines classroom instruction with hands-on work.

From there, experience becomes your best asset. Some choose to earn an associate degree in industrial maintenance, which can lead to more advanced roles.

And while education and training get your foot in the door, certifications can help you stand out from the competition.

Certifications That Can Boost Your Paycheck

While not always mandatory, certifications can set you apart:

Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) – Validates maintenance and reliability skills.
Journeyman Millwright Certification – Recognized in many states.
Certified Automation Professional (CAP) – Covers automation systems and controls.
Forklift Operator Certification – Often a job requirement.
NICET Certification – Technical credentials in industrial maintenance.
OSHA Safety Certification – Demonstrates workplace safety knowledge.
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) – Useful for roles with procurement duties.

Once your qualifications are in place, it’s time to look at where—and how—to land your first role.

Job Hunting Tips

A smart job search focuses on where your skills match local demand. Research regional industries—manufacturing in Michigan, aerospace in Washington, or automotive in Georgia—and tailor your applications accordingly.

Preparation matters too. Before your first day, review workplace safety practices. Knowing the basics can help you hit the ground running and make a strong first impression.

The Road Ahead

Automation and new technology are reshaping how millwrights work, but they’re not replacing the role. In fact, as machinery becomes more advanced, the need for skilled professionals who can install, maintain, and repair it is only increasing.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3% job growth from 2022 to 2032, translating to roughly 3,500 new openings each year. For anyone ready to work with their hands, solve problems, and keep industries moving, the future looks solid.

How to find a job as a Millwright?

Although these tips are not specific to millwrights or any particular job, they are still helpful and provide a good idea of how to find the job you want.

Once you’ve secured an interview, preparation is key—not just for the questions, but also for understanding the work environment you’ll be stepping into. Check out these top 10 pre-shift safety tips for factory and warehouse workers to get a sense of the practical steps you can expect on the job.

Next, let’s explore what interview questions are recommended, How to follow a job after interview, How to negotiate after a job offer to help you succed.

Considering a career as a millwright? Explore open positions with Timpl and see where your skills could take you.