Welders permanently join pieces of metal with metal filler, using heat with or without pressure. They construct and repair parts of ships, automobiles, spacecrafts, and other products. They also join beams and steel reinforcing rods in buildings, bridges, and highways.

JOB DUTIES

Arc Welders may:

Select a suitable electrode (welding rod)

Adjust electric current on the power source according to the types of metals being welded

"Strike" an arc by touching the electrode to the metal being welded, completing an electric circuit

Make the weld by guiding the arc, with its intense heat, along the edges of the metals to be joined

Gas Welders may:

Select proper types of welding torch tip according to the metal and the job being done

Light the torch

Adjust the regulators on the gas cylinders or torch to get the proper flame

Apply a torch flame to the metal until it melts

Apply a metal filler to bond the molten areas together

The tools and equipment used may include:

Materials used may include:

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Welders may specialize in these areas:

810.384-014 ARC WELDERS join metal parts using electric arc welding equipment.

819.384-010 COMBINATION WELDERS weld metal parts together to make or repair machine parts, motors, and plant equipment according to blueprints and work orders, using brazing and/or a variety of arc and gas welding equipment.

811.684-014 GAS WELDERS join metal parts together using gas welding equipment.

819.281-022 EXPERIMENTAL WELDERS analyze engineering data and weld experimental parts to determine the most effective welding process, using various welding methods and equipment.

819.381-010 ASSEMBLER-WELDERS assemble and tack-weld steel frames and other component parts of machinery and equipment in preparation for final welding.

819.361-010 FITTER-WELDERS lay out, fit, and weld fabricated, cast, and forged parts to assemble structural forms, such as machinery frames, tanks, pressure vessels, and building and bridge parts, according to blueprints and their knowledge of welding and metallurgy.

813.684-010 ASSEMBLER BRAZERS bond together components to assemble metal parts as specified by layout, work order, or blueprints, using a hand torch.

810.664-010 GUN WELDERS join or tack-weld overlapping edges of prepositioned parts to make sheet metal assemblies such as panels, refrigerator shells, and auto bodies.

810.684-010 TACK WELDERS join short beads at points along the overlapping edges of metal parts, as specified by a layout or welding diagram, in order to hold the parts in place for final welding.

819.684-010 PRODUCTION LINE WELDERS join metal parts on production lines, using previously set up gas- or arc-welding equipment.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following MOIScripts:

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WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Welders may work alone or as part of a team in a plant or when performing work on construction or maintenance projects. Welders should be able to withstand heat caused by the welding equipment and the protective clothing and face shields they wear. Plants generally are not air-conditioned. Some welding processes are cool and clean while others are relatively hot and dirty.

To prevent burns, and eye injuries, Welders wear protective clothing, goggles, and helmets. They may work in the presence of toxic fumes and gases. They may also have to withstand loud noise and vibration. Construction Welders normally work both inside and outside, and may be expected to work on scaffolds and platforms. Construction welding is affected by seasonal weather changes.

Most Welders work 5 days per week, 8 hours per day. Many companies, such as automobile manufacturers, have several shifts so that Welders may be required to work afternoons or evenings. Some Welders may occasionally work overtime.

Welders are generally required purchase gloves, shoes, helmets, goggles, and safety shoes. Depending on the employer, they may also be required to join a union. Union members must pay dues.

You Should Prefer:

• Working with machines, processes, or methods

• Dealing with things and objects

You Should Be Able To:

• Rate information using standards that can be measured or checked

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Visualize solid objects from flat drawings and blueprints

• See detail in objects or drawings and recognize slight differences

• Work easily and skillfully with your hands

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

If one piece of .045" mild steel is welded to a piece of .062" mild steel, calculate the weld time and weld current.

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

The electroslag welding process is similar to electrogas welding. A thick layer of powdered flux is placed in the joint before welding begins. Once welding starts, the powdered flux melts. It forms a protective, floating slag above the weld area.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Prepare an order form indicating what types of welding tips and how many are needed.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

Analytical skills and be detail oriented in assessing work specifications and welding.

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EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school) or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) or an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the MOIScript:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0300 AUTOMOTIVE , 0500 BUILDING TRADES , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2200 MATH , 2300 METALS , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

051 WELDING, BRAZING, & SOLDERING

Approved vocational education programs in Welding, Brazing, and Soldering prepare students to use a gas and/or arc welding process to braze and solder metal parts according to diagrams, blueprints, or written specifications. Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.

High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAM***

178 WELDING

Programs in Welding provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed for employment that requires joining metal parts through the use of heat and pressure. Welders are employed in a wide variety of industries such as construction and manufacturing. Individuals who teach Welding at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

  Search for a College and/or Instructional Program 

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

051 WELDER-BUILDING TRADES

Some people enter occupations within this MOIScript through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

052 WELDER-MANUFACTURING TRADES

Some people enter occupations within this MOIScript through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job. Apprenticeship programs for this occupation usually include-

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB

WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM

***MILITARY TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES***

Please check the Military website at http://www.myfuture.com

WELDERS AND METAL WORKERS

Sheet metal is used as a building material in many military construction projects. Ships, tanks, and aircraft are made of heavy metal armor. Welders and metal workers make and install sheet metal products, such as roofs, air ducts, gutters and vents. They also make custom parts to repair the structural parts of ships, submarines, landing craft, buildings, and equipment.

What They Do

Welders and metal workers in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Weld, braze, or solder metal parts together

• Repair automotive and ship parts using welding equipment

• Measure work with calipers, micrometers, and rulers

Physical Demands

Welders and metal workers may have to lift heavy metal parts and work in crouching or kneeling positions. Good color vision is required for locating and marking reference points, setting and adjusting welding equipment, and matching paints.

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include auto mechanic and industrial arts. Helpful attributes include:

• Preference for physical work

• Interest in working with repair tools

Work Environment

Welders and mental workers work indoors in metalworking shops and aircraft hangars. They also work outdoors at construction sites, on ships, and in the field.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian welders and metal workers may work for metal repair shops, auto repair shops, construction companies, pipeline companies, aircraft manufacturing plants, shipyards, and marine servicing companies. They perform duties similar to military welders and metal workers.

Training Provided

Job training consists of 4 to 15 weeks of classroom instruction. Training length varies depending on specialty. Course content typically includes:

• Sheet metal layout and duct work

• Procedures for cutting, brazing, and heat treating

• Operation and care of welding, soldering and brazing equipment

Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. The Army, Navy, and Marine corps offer certified apprenticeship programs for some specialties in this occupation.

Opportunities

The services have about 6,100 welders and metal workers. On average, they need about 340 new welders and metal workers each year. After job training welders and metal workers begin to make and repair metal equipment under the direction of a supervisor. With experience, they may become managers of repair shops, maintenance depots, or shipyards.

E-Learning Courses and Programs 

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

Welders may be required to take practical and written tests before being hired. Most employers of Arc or Gas Welders prefer applicants with high school or vocational school training. Persons entering a formal apprenticeship program may be required to pass written and oral tests and meet minimum age requirements. Welders performing work that must pass certification inspection have to pass performance tests for the type of welding required.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Welder employer

internships

volunteer work with a Welder employer

community service work with an agency

Secondary vocational education co-op programs in welding, brazing, and soldering and post-secondary programs in welding may offer opportunities for experience. Experience may also be gained through summer jobs, especially on auto production lines; all branches of military service; work programs at community colleges; and formal apprenticeship programs.

Persons wanting a job as a Welder should apply directly to employers, or contact civil service offices. Assistance in locating a job may be obtained by contacting local unions, school placement offices, or a local office of Michigan Works!. Job openings are often listed in newspaper want ads. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

Michigan Jobs & Career Portal

Michigan Talent Bank (http://www.michworks.org/mtb/user/MTB_EMPL.EntryMainPage)

America's Job bank(http://www.ajb.dni.us)

Classifieds Employment (http://www.classifieds2000.com)

Yahoo! Careers (http://careers.yahoo.com/)  

MONSTER.COM (http://www.monster.com)

CareerBuilder (http://www.careerbuilder.com)

Michigan Dept. of Career Development (http://www.michigan.gov/mdcd)

Michigan Works! (http://www.michiganworks.org)

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

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EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Earnings depend on the experience, skill, and specialty of the individual; the size and type of employer; the geographic location; and the extent of unionization.

Nationally, the median weekly earnings of Welders were $539 in 2001 which was about $13.48 an hour, based on a 40-hour week.  The median hourly earnings of  "all" workers in the U.S. were $14.92 in 2001.

Earnings of most Welders, employed in the automobile industry (mid 2002) ranged from $22.94 to $26.90 per hour. They also earned a cost-of-living allowance.

According to a early 2002 Michigan survey, the average hourly wage of skilled Welders in Michigan was $16.91 per hour while those with lower skills averaged $15.00 per hour.

Welders employed by one Michigan utility company earned base rates between $19.74 and $26.80 an hour in mid 2002. In addition, they received an annual lump-sum bonus.

Various governments in Michigan paid Welders the following hourly rates in 2002.

The 2000 graduates of high school vocational education programs in Michigan who are working in jobs related to this occupation earned an average beginning wage of $10.50 an hour in 2001.

Welders may receive paid vacations and holidays; life, accident, and health insurance; sick leave; and retirement plans. Some workers may receive dental and/or optical benefits. These benefits are paid for, at least in part, by employers.

Workers in this occupation begin as Welder helpers or apprentices and advance to welder positions after completing their training and/or gaining experience. A career ladder may be: welder, helper or apprentice, Welder, Welder Fitter, welder inspector, supervisor. Advancement to inspector or supervisory positions for Welders depends on training, experience and supervisory ability. After gaining experience, some Welders open their own shops.

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  EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

Nationally, about 420,500 Welders were employed in 2000. Employment of Welders is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2010. Additionally, about 5.2% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for Welders looked like this:  

Employment of Welders in construction and manufacturing is vulnerable to periodic layoffs due to economic downturns. The need for welding and cutting in construction is expected to expand as is the number of metal products needing repair. This work is generally less routine and more difficult to automate than other welding jobs. Greater use of welding robots and other technologies, as well as the substitution of high-strength composite materials and plastics should cause employment of Welders in manufacturing to decline. Robot welding systems have already eliminated some routine jobs, and this trend is expected to continue.

About 15,600 Welders are employed in Michigan. Employment of Welders in Michigan is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2008. In late 2001, there were 59 apprentices in training for this occupation, and 10 completed the apprentice program during the prior 12 months.

The demand for Welders will be affected by technological changes such as advances in robotics, visual and other machine-sensing capabilities, and computer-aided manufacturing all of which decrease production time and costs. Robotic welding systems are already eliminating the jobs of spot welders in the automobile industry.

The use of high strength composite materials and improved plastics instead of metals in products such as automobiles will reduce the demand for Welders also. In addition, Welders are vulnerable to periodic layoffs for factory retooling and to economic downturns.  

MICHIGAN'S AREA EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2008  

EMPLOYMENT                    NUMBER            PERCENT           PROJECTED YEARLY

  REGION                                EMPLOYED       GROWTH           JOB OPENINGS

    Ann Arbor Area                      600                      16.0                     25

  Battle Creek Area                   445                       3.6                      13

  Benton Harbor Area                685                      4.1                      20

  Central Michigan                     350                       2.6                     10

  Detroit MSA                           6,530                   3.8                      190

  East Central Michigan             105                       29.1                    6

  Flint Area                                900                      -4.7                     23

  Grand Rapids Area                 1,910                    20.2                    87

  Jackson Area                          385                       9.1                     14

  Kalamazoo Area                     730                      -5.7                     18

  Lansing MSA                          590                       8.8                     20

  Muskegon Area                      375                       2.4                     10

  Northeast Lower Peninsula     165                       26.3                    8

  Northwest Lower Peninsula    445                       27.1                   23

  Saginaw MSA                        675                      -2.5                    17

  Thumb Area                           330                      17.7                    14

  Upper Peninsula                     435                      13.6                    17

  West Central Michigan           245                      26.7                    13

MSA designates a Metropolitan Statistical Are a. 

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SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Printed occupational information is available upon written request from the sources below:

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SUMMARY PROFILE

The occupation of Welder can be summarized by the following:

Copyright © 2003 Michigan Department of Career Development