Welder

What types of equipment do welders use?

Welders use many different types of equipment and tools, such as stick welders, MIG welders, TIG welders, angle grinders, saws, squares, calipers, and clamps. The specific tool or piece of equipment used depends on what metal the welder is cutting or joining, as well as what the end product the welder is creating or repairing is. 

What is the typical schedule for a welder?

Welders usually work shifts and are paid hourly. The number of hours wlederswork and when welders work may vary by company, job, and location, but most welders typically work full-time or 40 hours a week. Depending on the project and on the employer, welders may work long or irregular hours that differ from the average work schedule. Welders may be able to request a certain schedule that aligns best with their personal or family preferences, but most welding job postings will list specific shift times. 

What kind of environment do welders work in?

Welders can work in a variety of locations, such as factories, construction sites, and other industrial locations. Locations where  welders work can vary depending on the company they work for and industry they work in—industries like the automobile industry, shipbuilding, building construction, or other types of manufacturing. 

Some welders may find themselves needing to work outdoors often, even in inclement weather. Others may work primarily inside. Regardless, welders must be prepared to handle working in tight quarters and should be comfortable working on scaffolding or other platforms that may be high off the ground. Occasionally, welders may find themselves needing to lift heavy objects or handle heavy equipment. 

What types of skills do welders need?

To complete the day-to-day tasks described above, welders need a strong knowledge of welding and metal properties. They must be able to read and interpret technical documents, blueprints, and drawings. Depending on the industry, employers may look for welders with experience using certain specialized types of welding equipment, as well as electrical and manual tools such as saws, squares, and calipers. Welders must be familiar with safety standards and demonstrate a commitment to adhere to wearing proper protective clothing and gear. 

Outside of these “hard” skills, welders must also have a number of soft skills to be successful. Welding requires excellent attention to detail in order to correctly interpret complex technical blueprints and drawings and to successfully join two components together. Welders should be comfortable working in fast-paced manufacturing environments, which may at times be loud or feel chaotic. They should possess good communication skills and be able to follow written and verbal instructions with ease. As with any career, welders should also demonstrate a willingness to put in the time and effort needed to grow their skills and move up within the company. 

What are the educational requirements for a welder?

Welding jobs typically require a high school diploma or GED. Prior to starting a welding career, many people complete  welding apprenticeships to get hands-on welding experience. Apprenticeships are similar to internships, but they are typically paid. They can be a great way to start building connections with a company to be hired full-time. 

Some welding jobs may require you to have a certificate from a welding vocational school (also known as a welding trade school). These certifications are usually earned through the American Welding Society, and they’re used to prove knowledge and welding skills. Welders can earn a number of welding-specific certifications, including Certified Welder (CW), Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI), Certified Welding Educator (CWE), or Certified Welding Sales Representative (CWSR). For each of these certifications, there is a written exam and a welding skills test. Once the certification is received, it will need to be renewed every six months to a year to prove that skills and knowledge are kept up-to-date.

In addition, on-the-job training is usually required. Certifications and on-the-job training are particularly important for welding, because welding jobs require high temperatures that can be dangerous to someone who is inexperienced.