Welder

A Welder joins metal parts using arc, MIG, TIG, or other welding techniques, reading blueprints to position pieces correctly and inspecting finished joints for strength and quality. This role involves precision, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of metallurgy and safety protocols to create durable structures and components across various industries. Creates and repairs essential metal structures and components, ensuring the integrity and safety of buildings, vehicles, machinery, and infrastructure.

A Welder earns a median of $58,000 per year in the US, typically ranging from $42,000 to $75,000.

To become a Welder, high school diploma or equivalent, plus vocational training or an apprenticeship program is typically required. AWS Certification (e.g., D1.1, D1.2, D1.3, D1.5).

Welder roles tend to suit people who are highly conscientious — precise, organised and strong on follow-through (Conscientiousness 80/100) and steady under pressure — deadlines and setbacks do not rattle them easily (Emotional Stability 72/100). The traits that matter most in the role are Conscientious, Practical-minded, Independent Worker and Cooperative. Follows blueprints, safety protocols, and quality standards meticulously to ensure precise and durable welds. On interests, Welder maps to a RCI Holland Code profile — individuals who enjoy hands-on work, operating machinery, and solving practical problems through precise technical skills often thrive as welders. A methodical and investigative approach helps ensure quality and safety.

A Welder role is usually a strong fit for these reasons. A strong Realistic (R) affinity for hands-on, mechanical, and tool-oriented work. High Conscientiousness (C) is crucial for precision, safety, and adherence to specifications. The role offers tangible results, appealing to those who enjoy seeing their craft come to life.

Welder roles come with trade-offs worth weighing up. The work can be physically demanding, requiring strength and stamina. Exposure to heat, fumes, and loud noises is common, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols. The role often involves repetitive tasks and can be less socially interactive than other professions.

Work as a Welder is mostly workshop-based with onsite arrangements common, semi-structured — a mix of set processes and self-directed work, a moderate pace and low exposure to clients or stakeholders. Around 69% of the week is focused deep work.

Core skills for a Welder include Blueprint Reading, Metal Fabrication, MIG Welding, TIG Welding, Arc Welding and Quality Inspection.

Common entry routes into Welder roles include Welding Apprentice, Entry Level Fabricator and Metal Shop Assistant.

From a Welder role, common next steps include Senior Welder, Welding Inspector and Fabrication Supervisor; lateral moves include Welding Instructor.

The outlook for Welder roles is currently rated stable. Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Traitstack rates automation risk for Welder roles at 36 out of 100, which is low. While AI can monitor and guide welding processes for quality, human welders remain crucial for intricate work, adapting to diverse materials, and ensuring the structural integrity of complex joints. AI is most likely to take on interpreting blueprints and suggesting optimal welding parameters, real-time monitoring of weld quality and defect detection and optimizing power settings and travel speed for robotic welders. Performing highly specialized tig or pipe welding on critical components, adapting to variable material properties and environmental conditions and troubleshooting unexpected issues during the welding process stay with people. Less focus on repetitive tasks, more on intricate work and technology management. That score measures how much of the work could change, not the likelihood the job disappears. It is Traitstack's current view, revisited as AI capability moves.