Job Description
Welders utilize various tools to cut, fill metal parts, and products. They do this by creating intense heat by using different types of heavy machinery. Welders carefully inspect items needing welding, monitor the process, and maintain the machinery.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Examine blueprints and sketches
- Maintain equipment and machinery
- Weld components in various positions
- Operate various machinery following safety protocols
Education and Background
This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer technical or on-the-job experience as well as certifications.
Skills and Competencies
- Physical stamina and strength
- Manual dexterity
- Knowledge of technical and mechanical terminology, processes, and equipment
- Detail-oriented and ability to handle potentially hazardous conditions
- Ability to comprehend instructions, drawings, and blueprints
- Thorough understanding of welding processes
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of a Welder with
1 Year of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $38,000
- Tampa, Florida: $40,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $42,000
- Miami, Florida: $49,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $54,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $56,000
- Houston, Texas: $51,000
- Los Angeles, California: $57,000
- New York City, New York: $53,000
- Seattle, Washington: $42,000
- Overall: $49,000
5 Years of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $49,000
- Tampa, Florida: $51,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $48,000
- Miami, Florida: $55,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $59,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $65,000
- Houston, Texas: $62,000
- Los Angeles, California: $62,000
- New York City, New York: $64,000
- Seattle, Washington: $60,000
- Overall: $59,000
Similar Titles
- Fabricator
- Fitter
- Welding Engineer
Career Path
This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers may prefer job candidates with technical or on-the-job experience as well as welding certifications. Welders have the opportunity to advance to positions such as Welding Engineer and Robotic Welding Technician.
Position Trends
As technology advances, the applications for welding grow and therefore, will increase the demand for Welders. The American Welding Society offers certifications and opportunities for education and professional development.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the welding field should grow three percent from 2018 to 2028. This growth rate is slower than average for all occupations.
Typical Hours
Welders work during regular business hours in a manufacturing environment. Many may work outside and risk hazardous conditions and injury. They may have to lift heavy items and work in awkward positions. For these reasons, Welders must take preventative action by wearing protective clothing.
Where You Can Find Jobs
- 4 Corner Resources
- Career Builder
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Monster
- The Balance Careers
Are You Interested in Becoming a Welder?
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