Jobs in Welding

Welding Technician

Welding Technicians use their extensive knowledge of joining processes, materials, welding equipment, welding techniques, and standards to assist welding engineering personnel with the development, application, evaluation, and documentation of welding techniques, equipment, and processes used to manufacture welded products according to relevant codes.


Welding technicians may also play a role in product engineering and research and development.

$37,000
Entry Level Salary
$43,000
National Median Pay
$75,000+
Real Go-Getters Make
Source: Emsi, 2022

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

  • Set-up and operate welding and joining processes for lab tests, and perform welding experiments
  • Work in cross-functional engineering teams to develop and test new products
  • Conduct training programs and field service activities for clients
  • Support related manufacturing requirements
  • Interpret welding related requirements and troubleshoot welding problems

Education and training that can lead to a successful career may include:

 

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Minimum Education

High school diploma or equivalent

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Recommended Education

Certificate in welding, metals fabrication, machining, robotic welding, etc.

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Preferred Education

Associate degree in welding, metals fabrication, engineering technology, etc.

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Advanced Education

Bachelor’s degree in welding, material science, welding engineering, etc.

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Recommended Training

Welding- related work experience

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Advanced Training

Apprenticeship program

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Recommended Certification

AWS Certified welder

Career Spotlight 

Akbar Millender’s competitive spirit has helped him climb the ladder at his manufacturing company – from a grinder out of high school to his current role as an operations manager. Click the video to see more.

Want to see more career spotlight videos? Check all of them out Here!

Essential Skills

  • Organized and detail oriented
  • Highly motivated and self-directed
  • Effective written and oral communication
  • Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Proficient with hands-on and automated arc welding and cutting processes
  • Able to identify weld discontinuities and read blueprints

Work Environment

Many welding technicians work in shop or lab environments. Field service on active construction sites and travel opportunities for this career are common in some industries. 

The heat map below showcases the total number of job postings for Welding Technicians in the last twelve months by state. As shown, the darker the color of the state, the higher the concentration of job postings. The heat map is intended to provide insight into areas where Welding Technician careers are currently in demand.


Top Industries 

  • Manufacturing

    Agricultural Equipment, Automotive Components, Electronic Devices, Aerospace and Aviation Components

  • Transportation

    Motorsports, Aerospace Components, Light and Heavy Railway Equipment, Shipping and Maritime Vessels

  • Infrastructure

    Bridge & Highway Construction, Building & Structural Components, Utilities & Capital Projects