C.A. · Registered Migration Agent (MARN: 1803385)

NOC 2021 · 72400 · TEER 2

NOC 72400: Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics

Official NOC 2021, Job Bank and IRCC data · checked 21 October 2026

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics install, maintain, troubleshoot, overhaul and repair stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment. This unit group includes industrial textile machinery mechanics and repairers. Construction millwrights are employed by millwrighting contractors. Industrial mechanics are employed in manufacturing plants, utilities and other industrial establishments. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

TEER

TEER 2

Usually needs a college diploma, an apprenticeship of 2 or more years, or supervisory work

Median wage (Canada)

$37.00 / hour

Job Bank, 2023-2024

High-wage tier (from 3 Nov 2026)

Not on the list

No high-wage CRS points

Express Entry categories

Trades

Category-based draws (2026)

Express Entry

How NOC 72400 counts for Express Entry

  • Federal Skilled Worker: eligible occupationNeeds 1 year of continuous skilled (TEER 0–3) work in the last 10 years and 67 points on the FSW grid.
  • Canadian Experience Class: eligible occupationNeeds 1 year of skilled (TEER 0–3) work in Canada in the last 3 years.
  • Federal Skilled Trades: eligible occupationNeeds 2 years of work in an eligible trade group in the last 5 years, plus a job offer or a Canadian certificate of qualification.

High-wage CRS points

NOC 72400 is not one of IRCC's 186 high-wage occupations, so Canadian work or a job offer in it earns no high-wage points. Your usual Canadian work-length points still count.

See all 186 high-wage occupations

Category-based draws

  • Trades

At least 12 months of full-time work experience (or equal part-time) in the past 3 years in one listed occupation, plus Express Entry eligibility and the round instructions.

IRCC category lists

Duties

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics
  • Read blueprints, diagrams and schematic drawings to determine work procedures
  • Install, align, dismantle and move stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment, such as pumps, fans, tanks, conveyors, furnaces and generators according to layout plans using hand and power tools
  • Operate hoisting and lifting devices such as cranes, jacks and tractors to position machinery and parts during the installation, set-up and repair of machinery
  • Inspect and examine machinery and equipment to detect and investigate irregularities and malfunctions
  • Install, troubleshoot and maintain power transmission, vacuum, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and programmable logic controls
  • Adjust machinery and repair or replace defective parts
  • Operate machine tools such as lathes and grinders to fabricate parts required during overhaul, maintenance or set-up of machinery
  • Clean, lubricate and perform other routine maintenance work on machinery
  • Construct foundations for machinery or direct other workers to construct foundations
  • Assemble machinery and equipment prior to installation using hand and power tools and welding equipment.
  • Textile machinery mechanics and repairers
  • Apply mechanical repair principles and procedures to make sure that machinery runs properly
  • Detect defects and excessive wear in machinery and identify slight differences in dimensions and shapes of component parts
  • Repair and overhaul electrical and mechanical systems on textile machinery and replace and align moving parts as required
  • Set-up and adjust complex machinery for new patterns and products
  • Analyze information to perform maintenance such as cleaning and lubrication of textile machinery, troubleshooting, and to test running and proper operation of machines
  • Confer with management to recommend equipment changes and modifications and in evaluating new equipment.

For Express Entry, your experience must match the lead statement and most of these duties, not only the job title.

Job titles

Example job titles

  • card fixer
  • card grinder
  • construction millwright
  • industrial mechanic
  • industrial mechanic apprentice
  • industrial sewing machine mechanic
  • knitting machine mechanic
  • loom fixer
  • loom technician
  • maintenance millwright
  • millwright
  • millwright apprentice
  • open-end technician
  • plant equipment mechanic
  • spinning fixer
  • textile fixer
  • textile machine mechanic
  • textile machinery fixer
  • treatment plant maintenance mechanic
All 193 job titles in NOC 72400
  • ammunition-assembling machine adjuster
  • ammunition-loading machine adjuster
  • apprentice industrial mechanic
  • apprentice millwright
  • automatic knitting machine pattern setter
  • automatic pinsetting machine installer and repairer
  • bakery machinery mechanic
  • boilerhouse machinery mechanic
  • braiding machine setter
  • can seamer machine repairer
  • canal equipment mechanic
  • card fixer
  • card fixer - textile manufacturing
  • card grinder
  • card grinder - textile manufacturing
  • card setter - textile manufacturing
  • carding machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • carpet loom fixer - textile manufacturing
  • carpet loom setter - textile manufacturing
  • carton-forming machine repairer
  • chemical plant service mechanic
  • chemical process equipment mechanic
  • comb fixer - textile manufacturing
  • comb setter - textile manufacturing
  • compressed gas plant maintenance mechanic
  • concentrating plant mechanic
  • construction millwright
  • conveyor repairer
  • cutting machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • dairy equipment repairer
  • derrick mechanic
  • fabric-shearing machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • fabric-shearing machine setter - textile manufacturing
  • fabric-shearing machine setter-fixer - textile manufacturing
  • factory maintenance mechanic
  • fibreglass-forming machine repairer
  • flyer repairer - textile manufacturing
  • forge equipment repairer
  • forge shop machinery mechanic
  • forge shop machinery repairer
  • gas turbine machinery industrial mechanic
  • gas turbine repairer
  • grain elevator maintenance mechanic
  • gum-wrapping machine mechanic
  • heavy water plant mechanical maintainer
  • hook repairer - textile manufacturing
  • industrial hoist mechanic
  • industrial machinery maintenance mechanic
  • industrial mechanic
  • industrial mechanic and millwright
  • industrial mechanic apprentice
  • industrial mechanic-welder
  • industrial plant maintenance mechanic
  • industrial pump repairer
  • industrial sewing machine mechanic
  • jacquard loom fixer - textile manufacturing
  • jacquard loom setter - textile manufacturing
  • journeyman/woman industrial mechanic
  • knitting machine adjuster - textile manufacturing
  • knitting machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • knitting machine mechanic
  • knitting machine setter - textile manufacturing
  • knitting pattern setter - textile manufacturing
  • linotype repairer
  • loom changer
  • loom fixer
  • loom fixer - textile manufacturing
  • loom mechanic - textile manufacturing
  • loom mechanic-repairer - textile manufacturing
  • loom pattern changer
  • loom preparer
  • loom reed repairer - textile manufacturing
  • loom repairer - textile manufacturing
  • loom setter
  • loom setter - textile manufacturing
  • loom starter
  • loom technician
  • loom technician - textile manufacturing
  • looper fixer - textile manufacturing
  • looper setter - textile manufacturing
  • mail-processing equipment mechanic
  • maintenance mechanic
  • maintenance mechanic - utilities
  • maintenance mechanic technician - industrial
  • maintenance millwright
  • marine engine mechanic
  • marine engine mechanic apprentice
  • material handling equipment mechanic
  • mechanic - utilities
  • metalworking machinery mechanic
  • mill maintenance mechanic
  • millwright
  • millwright apprentice
  • millwright industrial
  • mine hoist industrial mechanic
  • mine hoist machinery mechanic
  • mine hoist repairer
  • mine mechanic
  • mining equipment master mechanic
  • mining machinery mechanic
  • mule fixer - textile manufacturing
  • mule setter - textile manufacturing
  • napper adjuster - textile manufacturing
  • napper grinder - textile manufacturing
  • needle bed repairer - textile manufacturing
  • needle board repairer - textile manufacturing
  • nuclear generating station mechanical maintainer
  • nuclear power station equipment mechanic
  • nuclear power station machinery mechanic
  • oil drill rig mechanic
  • oil pump station mechanic
  • oil tool maintenance mechanic
  • oil tool repairer
  • oil-drilling rig maintainer
  • oil-drilling rig mechanic
  • open-end technician
  • open-end technician - textile manufacturing
  • ore-processing equipment mechanic
  • oven equipment repairer
  • packaging machine mechanic
  • petroleum refinery industrial mechanic
  • pin setter - textile manufacturing
  • plant equipment mechanic
  • plant machinery maintenance mechanic
  • plant maintenance mechanic
  • plastics-processing equipment mechanic
  • powerhouse machinery mechanic
  • preventive maintenance mechanic technician
  • printing machinery mechanic
  • processing plant mechanic
  • production machinery maintenance mechanic
  • production machinery mechanic
  • production mechanic
  • production tooling maintenance mechanic
  • production tooling mechanic
  • pump mechanic and repairer
  • pump systems installer
  • quiller machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • quiller setter - textile manufacturing
  • quilter fixer - textile manufacturing
  • quilter mechanic - textile manufacturing
  • quilter setter-fixer - textile manufacturing
  • quilting machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • quilting machine mechanic - textile manufacturing
  • quilting machine setter-fixer - textile manufacturing
  • reed fixer - textile manufacturing
  • reed setter - textile manufacturing
  • ride mechanical technician
  • rig mechanic
  • roll builder-repairer - rolling mills
  • roll setter - rolling mills
  • roller coverer - textile manufacturing
  • roller repairer - industrial equipment
  • rope machine setter - textile manufacturing
  • rubberizing machine mechanic
  • sewage treatment plant mechanic
  • shearing machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • ship rigger
  • shuttle fixer - textile manufacturing
  • shuttle setter - textile manufacturing
  • ski lift mechanic
  • ski lift repair technician
  • spinning fixer
  • spinning frame fixer - textile manufacturing
  • spinning machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • spinning technician - textile manufacturing
  • stationary farm equipment mechanic
  • steam plant maintenance mechanic
  • steam turbine repairer
  • tannery machinery repairer
  • textile fixer
  • textile machine mechanic
  • textile machine overhauler
  • textile machinery fixer
  • textile machinery mechanic
  • textile machinery repairer
  • textile-printing machine roller repairer - garment manufacturing
  • tobacco-processing machine mechanic
  • tool oiler and maintenance mechanic
  • tool oiler and repairer
  • treatment plant maintenance mechanic
  • upgrading plant mechanic
  • utility plant maintenance mechanic
  • water filtration plant mechanic
  • water treatment plant mechanic
  • weave changer - textile manufacturing
  • welding equipment mechanic
  • welding equipment repairer
  • welding machine mechanic
  • winder fixer - textile manufacturing
  • winding machine fixer - textile manufacturing
  • windmill repairer
  • wire repairer - textile manufacturing

Requirements

Employment requirements

  • Completion of secondary school and training courses or a vocational program is usually required.
  • Completion of a three- to four-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over five years of work experience and industry courses in industrial machinery repair or millwrighting is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
  • Textile machinery mechanics hired from other industries may require additional training in textile processes and experience as a textile manufacturing machinery operator.
  • Industrial mechanic (millwright) trade certification is available, but voluntary, in all provinces and territories.
  • Construction millwright trade certification is available, but voluntary, in Quebec and Ontario.
  • Industrial sewing machine mechanic trade certification is available, but voluntary, in Quebec.
  • Red Seal endorsement is also available to qualified industrial mechanics or millwrights upon successful completion of the interprovincial Red Seal examination.

Additional information

  • Construction millwrights are mostly engaged in the initial installation of industrial plant machinery and equipment; industrial mechanics are more concerned with the post-installation maintenance and repair of machinery and equipment.
  • Industrial mechanics and millwrights may be cross-trained in a second trade such as pipefitting, welding, machining or electrical maintenance.
  • The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.

This occupation may be regulated in some provinces. You may need a licence or certificate from the provincial regulator before you can work in it in Canada, even if you hold permanent residence.

Wages

Wages for NOC 72400 in Canada

Low, median and high wages per hour in Canadian dollars, from ESDC Job Bank's 2025 wage data.

RegionLowMedianHighSource
Canada$24.00$37.00$52.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Newfoundland and Labrador$26.00$42.35$57.30Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Prince Edward Island$22.00$30.04$37.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Nova Scotia$22.44$33.00$45.60Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
New Brunswick$21.00$30.00$50.43Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Quebec$24.00$33.33$49.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Ontario$23.00$35.59$48.50Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Manitoba$24.00$35.00$50.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Saskatchewan$26.00$42.00$57.83Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
Alberta$27.95$42.00$59.63Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024
British Columbia$25.25$42.00$55.00Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024

Provinces with too little data are not shown. Wages vary by city and employer; see Job Bank for regional figures.

Job outlook

Job outlook by province, 2025–2027

Job Bank rates the 3-year outlook as good or very good in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan.

GoodNewfoundland and Labrador

The employment outlook will be Good for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Newfoundland and Labrador for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

New and ongoing projects in the mining industry are one of the major drivers for employment prospects in this occupation. In addition, opportunities arising through anticipated retirements should be higher than average, likely creating job vacancies to be filled.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Newfoundland and Labrador:

Approximately 1,650 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 41%

Construction (NAICS 23): 17%

Support activities for mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (NAICS 213): 6%

Repair and maintenance (NAICS 811): 6%

55% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 45% work only part of the year, compared to 56% and 43% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 40 weeks compared to 40 weeks for all occupations.

Less than 5% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 8% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: 95% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: 5% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 6% compared to 27% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 65% compared to 17% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 23% compared to 23% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 14% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

GoodNova Scotia

The employment outlook will be Good for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Nova Scotia for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to several new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Due to the seasonal nature of this occupation, employment opportunities tend to be more favourable during the summer months.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Nova Scotia:

Approximately 2,850 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Plastics and rubber products and chemicals manufacturing (NAICS 325-326): 22%

Utilities (NAICS 22): 11%

Wholesale trade (NAICS 41): 7%

Construction (NAICS 23): 7%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%

69% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 31% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 44 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

Less than 5% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 11% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 6% compared to 10% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 13% compared to 27% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 43% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 34% compared to 22% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 20% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 10% for all occupations

GoodSaskatchewan

The employment outlook will be Good for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Saskatchewan for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to several new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Investments in mining operations will support demand for this occupation.

Ongoing need to service and maintain equipment across various industries.

Increasing use of electronic components in industrial machinery.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Saskatchewan:

Approximately 3,100 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 23%

Repair and maintenance (NAICS 811): 9%

Utilities (NAICS 22): 8%

Support activities for mining, oil and gas (NAICS 213): 8%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%

73% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 27% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

Less than 5% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 16% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 53% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 47% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 17% compared to 33% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 63% compared to 15% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 13% compared to 17% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 18% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

ModeratePrince Edward Island

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.

A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Prince Edward Island:

Approximately 300 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 34%

Machinery manufacturing (NAICS 333): 19%

Construction (NAICS 23): 15%

Chemical manufacturing (NAICS 325): 11%

Utilities (NAICS 22): 9%

63% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 37% work only part of the year, compared to 59% and 41% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 45 weeks compared to 41 weeks for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 51% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 49% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 7% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 17% compared to 28% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 31% compared to 11% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 34% compared to 25% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: n/a

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: n/a

ModerateNew Brunswick

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in New Brunswick for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Due to the seasonal nature of this occupation, employment opportunities tend to be more favourable during the summer months.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are primarily employed by construction and manufacturing companies.

The high level of construction activity in the province is expected to support demand for this occupation going forward.

Millwrights and mechanics are usually expected to complete an apprenticeship program or to have a college diploma. Most job postings require a Red Seal Millwright License or Journeyperson Certification in industrial mechanics (millwright).

Workers in this occupation are often required to travel between job sites and a valid driver’s license is a common requirement in job postings.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in New Brunswick:

Approximately 2,150 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 13%

Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 12%

Construction (NAICS 23): 10%

Utilities (NAICS 22): 10%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 10%

64% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 36% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 9% compared to 30% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 43% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 41% compared to 23% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 16% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 7% for all occupations

ModerateQuebec

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Quebec for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a few new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Several factors influence employment in this occupational group.

For example, the need for workers in the construction and manufacturing industries plays a crucial role. The boom in infrastructure projects, fueled by substantial public investment, is driving the need for a skilled workforce to meet these growing demands. Residential and institutional construction projects, as well as the maintenance of industrial equipment, stimulate demand for these mechanics, who are often sought after for their technical expertise and their ability to solve complex problems in the field.

However, budgetary constraints at various levels of government and economic uncertainty related to the trade conflict with the United States could slow public and private investment and moderate demand for this occupation in the short term.

In the medium and long term, the advent of automated technologies and robotic systems in manufacturing could reduce the need for human labour. As companies invest in automated solutions to improve efficiency and reduce costs, some traditional mechanics roles may become obsolete.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Quebec:

Approximately 19,650 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Repair and maintenance (NAICS 811): 14%

Construction (NAICS 23): 9%

Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 8%

Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 7%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 6%

The distribution of full-time and part-time workers in this occupation is:

Full-time workers: 95% compared to 82% for all occupations

Part-time workers: 5% compared to 18% for all occupations

68% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 32% work only part of the year, compared to 62% and 38% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 45 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

Less than 5% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 13% compared to 12% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 11% compared to 19% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 57% compared to 19% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 16% compared to 22% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 17% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 11% for all occupations

ModerateOntario

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Ontario for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

What Types of Employers Are Out There?

Employed across various industries but with nearly one-half in manufacturing, notably, transportation equipment, food, and primary metal (including steel) production

Other key employers include construction, utilities, and metal ore mining

What are the Main Trends Affecting Employment?

Favourable levels of construction

Investments in nuclear power generation

However, during the forecast period, employment prospects may be constrained by weak business conditions in manufacturing, including automotive and steel production due to economic uncertainty

What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?

There are four voluntary skilled trades associated with this occupation in Ontario namely, Construction Millwright, Industrial Mechanic Millwright, Packaging Machine Mechanic, and Marine Engine Technician

What Other Information Will I Find Helpful?

In northern Ontario, the mining industry is a major source of work in this occupation

In the Stratford–Bruce Peninsula region, more opportunities may exist in the utilities industry.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Ontario:

Approximately 38,650 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Motor vehicle, body, trailer and parts manufacturing (NAICS 3361-3363): 15%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 11%

Construction (NAICS 23): 10%

Repair and maintenance (NAICS 811): 7%

Utilities (NAICS 22): 6%

73% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 27% work only part of the year, compared to 63% and 37% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

Less than 5% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 14% compared to 25% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 38% compared to 8% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 37% compared to 22% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: 5% compared to 24% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 13% for all occupations

ModerateManitoba

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Manitoba for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment decline will lead to the loss of some positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Manitoba:

Approximately 3,100 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 20%

Construction (NAICS 23): 13%

Primary metal manufacturing (NAICS 331): 11%

Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 9%

Repair and maintenance (NAICS 811): 5%

73% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 27% work only part of the year, compared to 65% and 35% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 43 weeks for all occupations.

Less than 5% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 12% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 53% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 47% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 7% compared to 12% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 15% compared to 31% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 48% compared to 12% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 23% compared to 17% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: 5% compared to 20% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

ModerateAlberta

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in Alberta for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment is expected to remain relatively stable.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics will continue to be in demand with long-term employment prospects in the energy, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors.

Large food processors and manufacturers have expanded in southern Alberta in recent years, creating some employment opportunities.

Employment opportunities will also be available in natural gas and combined cycle power plant maintenance work. In addition, turnaround work in oil sands operations and natural gas plants will provide workers with opportunities in the long-term.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in Alberta:

Approximately 12,900 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Oil and gas extraction (NAICS 211): 15%

Construction (NAICS 23): 11%

Support activities for mining, oil and gas (NAICS 213): 9%

Repair and maintenance (NAICS 811): 8%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%

64% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 36% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 43 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

8% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 15% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 53% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 47% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: 6% compared to 10% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 15% compared to 28% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 59% compared to 13% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 16% compared to 19% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 21% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 9% for all occupations

ModerateBritish Columbia

The employment outlook will be Moderate for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics (NOC 72400) in British Columbia for the 2025-2027 period.

The following factors contributed to this outlook:

Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.

Several positions will become available due to retirements.

There are a moderate number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.

Here are some key facts about construction millwrights and industrial mechanics in British Columbia:

Approximately 11,000 people work in this occupation.

Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics mainly work in the following sectors:

Wood product manufacturing (NAICS 321): 15%

Mining and quarrying (NAICS 212): 10%

Construction (NAICS 23): 9%

Food, beverage and tobacco product manufacturing (NAICS 311, 312): 7%

Paper manufacturing (NAICS 322): 7%

71% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics work all year, while 28% work only part of the year, compared to 61% and 39% respectively among all occupations. Those who worked only part of the year did so for an average of 46 weeks compared to 42 weeks for all occupations.

6% of construction millwrights and industrial mechanics are self-employed compared to an average of 17% for all occupations.

The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:

Men: more than 95% compared to 52% for all occupations

Women: less than 5% compared to 48% for all occupations

The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:

no high school diploma: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupations

high school diploma or equivalent: 14% compared to 28% for all occupations

apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: 60% compared to 13% for all occupations

college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor's: 17% compared to 17% for all occupations

bachelor's degree: less than 5% compared to 22% for all occupations

university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 12% for all occupations

UndeterminedNorthwest Territories

An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

UndeterminedNunavut

An employment outlook has not been assigned to this occupation in this region due to low levels of employment.

Source: ESDC Job Bank, 3-year employment outlooks 2025–2027 (released December 2025).

Provinces

Provincial Nominee Programs

A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points. Most provinces run occupation-targeted draws or in-demand lists, and some accept TEER 4 and 5 occupations that Express Entry does not.

Provincial lists change often, sometimes between draws. We check whether NOC 72400 is being targeted by any province as part of a consultation.

Questions

NOC 72400: common questions

What is the NOC code for construction millwrights and industrial mechanics?
The NOC 2021 code is 72400 (Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics). Job titles in this group include card fixer, card grinder, construction millwright, industrial mechanic, industrial mechanic apprentice. Your NOC is set by your actual duties, not your job title.
What TEER category is NOC 72400?
NOC 72400 is TEER 2. Usually needs a college diploma, an apprenticeship of 2 or more years, or supervisory work.
Is NOC 72400 eligible for Express Entry?
Yes. As a TEER 2 occupation it counts as skilled work for the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class, and it is also in a Federal Skilled Trades group. You still need to meet each program's other requirements.
Is NOC 72400 a high-wage occupation for Express Entry?
No. It is not on IRCC's list of 186 high-wage occupations, so work or a job offer in it does not earn the new high-wage CRS points from 3 November 2026.
Is NOC 72400 eligible for category-based Express Entry draws?
Yes: Trades. You need at least 12 months of full-time work in a listed occupation in the past 3 years, as well as Express Entry eligibility.
What is the median wage for NOC 72400 in Canada?
The national median wage is $37.00 per hour, according to Job Bank (Labour Force Survey, 2023-2024). It ranges from $24.00 to $52.00.

Classification

Where it sits in NOC 2021

  1. 7Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupationsBroad Category
  2. 72Technical trades and transportation officers and controllersMajor Group
  3. 724Technical maintenance tradesSub-major Group
  4. 7240Machinery and transportation equipment mechanics (except motor vehicles)Minor Group
  5. 72400Construction millwrights and industrial mechanics

Enquiry

Is NOC 72400 your occupation? Ask us about your options.

Tell us your duties, experience and language scores. We will confirm your NOC code and the Canadian routes that fit.

The more context you give, the more useful the first conversation will be.

Sources: Statistics Canada, NOC 2021 Version 1.0, Job Bank wages (2025), Job Bank outlooks 2025–2027 and IRCC. Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Canada. Checked 21 October 2026.

NOC 2026 is due from Statistics Canada in December 2026. IRCC still uses NOC 2021 codes, and this page will show any change once IRCC switches.

This page is general information, not immigration advice. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, IRCC or ESDC.

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