Welder
Welders use hand-held or remotely controlled equipment to join or cut metal parts. They work in manufacturing, construction, and repair, using processes such as arc welding, MIG, TIG, and oxy-fuel cutting.
What does a Welder actually do?
Welders use hand-held or remotely controlled equipment to join or cut metal parts. They work in manufacturing, construction, and repair, using processes such as arc welding, MIG, TIG, and oxy-fuel cutting.
Career category: Industrial
How much does a Welder make?
National compensation data provides a baseline benchmark. Actual pay varies by geographic location, experience level, overtime hours, and employer type.
Median wage represents the midpoint of national occupational data where half of workers earned more and half earned less.
* Note: Detailed entry-level and experienced percentile data is pending source verification.
How to Train & Qualify as a Welder
Explore verified training pathways, state licensing requirements, accredited college programs, and official apprenticeship sources.
Typical pathway: 9 to 18 months for vocational certificate/diploma, or 3 to 4 years for union apprenticeship.
Vocational tuition applies for certificate programs; testing lab fees apply for specific welding test coupons.
Common Career Entry Route
Most welders attend a technical college or private welding academy to master SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, and GTAW processes before testing for specific American Welding Society (AWS) performance certifications.
Ready to start training as a Welder?
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Jobs & Apprenticeship Opportunities
Real employer positions and paid earn-while-you-learn apprenticeships in Welder.
What is this career really like?
Key physical requirements, work conditions, and environment characteristics for this career.
Active on-site work involving physical coordination, standing, and equipment handling.
Work follows established safety practices and protective equipment standards.
Job outlook & future demand
Projected employment growth published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Projected national occupational growth rate. Regional and local hiring demand may vary by market.
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