Welders operate and maintain the machines that fabricate and repair metal structures, equipment and machinery. Welders are qualified for positions in a variety of fields based on their skill level and experience, including shipbuilding, automotive, construction and manufacturing industries. Many welders complete a postsecondary training program; they may also participate in on-the-job training. Some employers prefer to hire candidates who hold voluntary professional Certified Welder or Certified Welding Fabricator credentials.

Required Education: Postsecondary training
Certification: Voluntary professional certification through the American Welding Society sometimes preferred
Median Annual Salary: $33,280 for welders, cutters, solderers and brazers

Source: Payscale.com

Try it yourself on the right:

  • Job Title: Welder
  • City: Orlando
  • State: Florida

Accurate, real-time salaries for thousands of careers.

Career Options in Welding

Welding is the application of heat to permanently join metal parts to repair and fabricate metal structures, machinery and equipment. Welding positions are classified depending on the training and types of welding machines that a welder can use. Skilled welders have experience using multiple welding machines including the arc welder, TIG (tungsten inert gas) welder and MIG (metal inert gas) welder. Skilled welders are found in automotive, construction and aerospace industries.

Unskilled welders typically do repetitive work which requires little or no special skill, such as work on assembly lines. Unskilled welding positions can be found in shipbuilding, manufacturing and steel industries. Due to the nature of the work and the industries where welding is employed, a welding career can be hazardous.

The American Welding Society (AWS) provides a number of career resources for all types of welders. Welders can find job opportunities, internship programs and continuing education resources through the AWS. The AWS also offers voluntary professional certification programs.

Job Duties


Welders set up, operate and maintain welding equipment. They understand and implement personal and company safety measures by wearing specialized goggles, helmets and gloves. Communication skills are essential to work with team members and converse with customers and clients.