What Does a Welder Do?
A welder is a skilled tradesperson who uses high-heat tools and techniques to fuse metals together in construction, manufacturing, repair, and fabrication projects. Their work forms the backbone of countless industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, and infrastructure. Welders operate specialized equipment such as arc welders, MIG and TIG machines, and cutting torches to create strong, precise bonds between metal components.
Welders must interpret technical drawings, follow detailed specifications, and adhere to strict safety standards. The role requires an understanding of metallurgy, thermal dynamics, and quality control processes. Depending on the industry and project, welders may work in controlled environments like factories or in the field under more hazardous conditions such as high elevations or underwater.
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Welder Core Responsibilities
- Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and welding symbols
- Operate and maintain welding equipment and safety gear
- Weld components using appropriate techniques (e.g., MIG, TIG, Stick)
- Inspect completed welds for strength, precision, and safety compliance
- Perform quality checks using visual and mechanical inspection tools
- Ensure all welding tasks follow OSHA and company safety regulations
- Collaborate with engineers, fabricators, and supervisors on project goals
- Cut, bend, and prepare metal parts using power tools or flame cutters
- Maintain clean work areas and adhere to equipment maintenance schedules
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in various welding methods (MIG, TIG, Stick, Flux-Cored)
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and welding symbols
- Skilled in metal fabrication and power tool usage
- Knowledge of metallurgy and material tolerances
- Familiarity with welding safety protocols and OSHA guidelines
Soft skills
- Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship
- Manual dexterity and physical stamina
- Effective communication in team-based environments
- Problem-solving under time constraints
- Commitment to safety and quality assurance
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a welding certificate program or technical training
Certifications
- American Welding Society (AWS) certification
- OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety training (industry-dependent)
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate degree in welding technology or fabrication
- Prior experience with robotic welding systems
- Expertise in high-precision or underwater welding
- Experience in heavy industrial or specialized fabrication settings
National Average Salary
Welder salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Welder is:
$54,550
Welder Job Description Samples
It’s important to include the right content in your job description when hiring a welder. The following examples can serve as templates for attracting the best available talent for your team.
Example 1: Pipe Welder
Position Overview
Pipe welders specialize in joining and repairing metal pipes used in various industrial systems, including oil and gas pipelines, chemical plants, and water treatment facilities. They perform precise welds that must withstand high pressures and extreme conditions. These professionals work with various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy metals, in a range of environments, such as confined spaces and elevated platforms.
Pipe Welder Responsibilities
- Interpret blueprints and pipe layout designs
- Perform pipe welding using SMAW, GTAW, and GMAW techniques
- Conduct welds in horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions
- Inspect and test pipe welds for pressure resistance and structural integrity
- Prepare pipe surfaces and joints using grinders or beveling tools
- Follow all OSHA and industry safety protocols for confined space and PPE
- Collaborate with pipefitters, foremen, and project managers to meet deadlines
- Document welding work and quality inspections as required
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced proficiency in welding methods (SMAW, GTAW, GMAW)
- Ability to perform 6G pipe welds
- Familiarity with pipe threading and beveling tools
- Knowledge of piping system layouts and flow dynamics
- Understanding of ASME and AWS codes
Soft skills
- High attention to detail and consistency
- Strong spatial awareness
- Physical strength and stamina for labor-intensive tasks
- Problem-solving in complex pipe layouts
- Effective team communication in field settings
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of an accredited welding or pipefitting program
Certifications
- AWS Certified Welder – Pipe Welding (6G)
- OSHA 10 or 30 certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in oil and gas pipeline welding
- Knowledge of orbital welding equipment
- NCCER Pipefitting certification
Example 2: Structural Welder
Position Overview
Structural welders join steel components used in the construction of buildings, bridges, towers, and other infrastructure. These professionals work from elevated positions and handle heavy materials to build strong, load-bearing frameworks. Structural welders often work alongside ironworkers and construction teams on commercial or industrial job sites.
Responsibilities
- Read blueprints and weld symbols to align structural elements
- Perform full-penetration and fillet welds on beams and columns
- Use MIG, TIG, and Stick welding for structural steel assemblies
- Inspect welds for accuracy, compliance, and strength
- Operate hoisting and rigging equipment for positioning components
- Follow safety protocols for working at heights and confined spaces
- Maintain welding tools and equipment in safe working condition
- Assist in on-site assembly of structural components
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in MIG, TIG, and SMAW welding on large structures
- Ability to work with carbon steel, structural steel, and iron
- Knowledge of blueprint reading and AWS D1.1 structural code
- Competency in using grinders, torches, and magnetic drills
- Familiarity with crane and lift safety
Soft skills
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Comfort working at heights and in adverse weather conditions
- Detail-oriented craftsmanship
- Team coordination with builders and engineers
- Focus on workplace safety and hazard awareness
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Welding trade school or apprenticeship training
Certifications
- AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Certification
- OSHA 10/30 for construction
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in bridge or high-rise construction
- NCCER Welding Level 1–3
- Knowledge of robotic welding systems
Example 3: Underwater Welder
Position Overview
Underwater welders combine commercial diving expertise with welding skills to repair and fabricate metal structures below the water’s surface. Typical applications include bridge supports, offshore oil rigs, ship hulls, and marine salvage operations. This role requires extreme physical and mental resilience due to hazardous working conditions and limited visibility.
Core Responsibilities
- Perform wet and dry welding in submerged environments
- Inspect underwater structures and identify repair needs
- Use cutting torches, cameras, and welding gear underwater
- Maintain diving and welding equipment for safe use
- Collaborate with dive teams, engineers, and surface crews
- Adhere to strict safety standards for diving and pressurized environments
- Document welding operations and submit inspection logs
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in underwater welding techniques (wet/dry)
- SCUBA and surface-supplied diving proficiency
- Knowledge of metal corrosion, water pressure effects, and structural materials
- Proficiency with waterproof power tools and welding equipment
- Navigation and communication using underwater tech
Soft skills
- Exceptional focus and risk awareness
- Physical strength and swimming ability
- Adaptability in unpredictable environments
- Excellent teamwork and surface communication
- Calmness under pressure
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a commercial diving program
Certifications
- AWS Certified Underwater Welder
- ADCI Commercial Diver Certification
- OSHA maritime or construction safety training
Preferred Qualifications
- Military or offshore diving experience
- Hyperbaric welding specialization
- NDT (non-destructive testing) training
Example 4: Sheet Metal Welder
Position Overview
Sheet metal welders specialize in joining thin metal sheets used in the fabrication of HVAC systems, enclosures, ductwork, and aircraft parts. This role requires fine motor skills, an eye for precision, and the ability to work with lightweight metals like aluminum and stainless steel. Sheet metal welders often work in manufacturing facilities or on-site in commercial construction settings.
Responsibilities
- Weld and fabricate components using MIG and TIG processes
- Cut and shape sheet metal with shears, brakes, and rollers
- Read and interpret blueprints and CAD drawings
- Assemble parts with rivets, fasteners, and spot welding
- Perform cosmetic welds with smooth, clean finishes
- Conduct quality checks and ensure fit/form compliance
- Follow safety and PPE standards in fabrication environments
- Maintain cleanliness and calibration of welding stations
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in MIG, TIG, and spot welding on thin-gauge metals
- Experience with sheet metal tools (brakes, shears, punches)
- Ability to read CAD prints and technical schematics
- Understanding of fabrication tolerances and finishes
- Skill in assembling HVAC ductwork and custom panels
Soft skills
- High precision and hand-eye coordination
- Ability to manage small details in repetitive tasks
- Clear communication with design and engineering teams
- Time management on short production cycles
- Quality-focused mindset
Educational requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Technical certificate in welding or sheet metal fabrication
Certifications
- AWS Sheet Metal Welding Certification (optional)
- OSHA 10 or 30
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in HVAC or aerospace sheet metal work
- Training in CNC cutting or laser welding
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing practices