Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Millwright
What millwrights actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
Review the installation plan for a new packaging line and the day’s lifts. From there, the day usually includes read blueprints and installation drawings, rig, move and set heavy machinery, and level and anchor equipment to foundations. Most work full-time, with overtime during plant shutdowns and installations. Some travel to projects.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a millwright working full time.
- Review the installation plan for a new packaging line and the day’s lifts.
- Rig and set a gearbox on its base with a forklift and chain hoist.
- Level the base with a machinist’s level and shim it.
- Perform laser shaft alignment between a motor and pump.
- Replace a worn bearing on a conveyor head pulley.
- Check vibration readings on a critical fan with the maintenance team.
- Document alignment readings and update the work order.
Where millwrights work
Millwrights work in factories, power plants, mines and construction sites. The work involves heavy lifting, rigging, climbing and tight spaces, with noise and moving machinery.
Hours and schedule
Most work full-time, with overtime during plant shutdowns and installations. Some travel to projects.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read blueprints and installation drawings
- Rig, move and set heavy machinery
- Level and anchor equipment to foundations
- Align shafts and couplings with precision tools
- Install and repair conveyors, pumps and gearboxes
- Replace bearings, seals and drive components
- Perform preventive and predictive maintenance
Tools you’ll use every day
- Laser alignment systems
- Dial indicators and micrometers
- Machinist’s levels
- Chain hoists, come-alongs and rigging gear
- Torque wrenches
- Welding and cutting equipment
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Paid apprenticeship training
- Precision, problem-solving work
- Demand across many industries
- Overtime during shutdowns
What’s hard
- Heavy, physical work
- Shutdown periods with long hours
- Travel for some project work
- Hazards from heavy loads and machinery
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like big machines and precise work
- I enjoy measuring and aligning things exactly
- I can handle heavy, physical work
- I want an apprenticeship with good pay
- I like solving mechanical problems
- I don’t mind overtime during shutdowns
Not sure? Take the free Millwright fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow lockout/tagout and verify zero energy
- Plan every lift and inspect rigging
- Stay clear of suspended loads
- Use machine guards and keep hands away from pinch points