🔥

Welder

Join metal and build the structures of tomorrow

$45,000-$70,000

Salary Range

7 months-2 years

Training Time

Job Growth

Career Overview

Welders use high heat to join metal parts in manufacturing, construction, and repair. Specialized welding (underwater, pipeline, aerospace) can command significantly higher pay.

📅 A Day in the Life

1Read blueprints and welding symbols

2Set up and operate welding equipment

3Join metal parts using various welding techniques

4Inspect welds for quality and defects

5Maintain and troubleshoot welding equipment

💪 Key Skills

✓Steady hands and precision
✓Understanding of metallurgy
✓Blueprint reading
✓Safety awareness
✓Physical stamina

📜 Certifications

★AWS Certified Welder
★API certifications (pipeline)
★ASME certifications (pressure vessels)
★CWI - Certified Welding Inspector

📈 Career Progression

Welder Helper / Apprentice→

Welder→

Certified Welder (specialized)→

Welding Inspector→

Welding Engineer or Supervisor

Pros & Cons

Pros

+Specialized skills command premium pay
+Creative and hands-on work
+Opportunities in many industries
+Travel opportunities

Cons

−Exposure to fumes and UV light
−Physical demands
−Hot working conditions
−Repetitive motion risks

🔗 Learn More

American Welding Society →Bureau of Labor Statistics - Welders →Hobart Institute →

Ready to Get Started?

Find training programs near you or compare this career with others.

View Welder Programs Compare Careers

Explore Other Careers

⚡Electrician 🏥Registered Nurse 🚑EMT / Paramedic ❄️HVAC Technician