A welder is someone who joins separate pieces of metal together using a variety of different methods which include Arc and Tig welding. In all types of welding, intense heat melts two touching or very close edges of metal and bonds them together. A good weld creates a very strong join capable of holding very large weights.

The role of a welder can vary considerably depending on where they are employed. A welder could be making small welds on individual components in a production line, working from detailed drawings to create whole products or working as part of a big assembly such as in ship building. Welders generally must be able to work from detailed technical drawings without supervision and complete projects to a high degree of accuracy. Good manual dexterity is a bonus, as is a good eye for detail.

Being able to create strong welds is obviously important in any of the roles in which a welder might find himself/herself so technical ability and consistent quality levels are expected in anything other than an apprentice position. In many cases welds are the weak point of the product or construction and you may be required to perform quality control on your own work after you have finished a set task.

The working environment of a welder can also vary greatly. Due to the nature of the job, it can often be hot, noisy and dirty, both indoors and out. If working within the construction industry you must be careful of all the normal hazards associated with that industry, but even if working off-site, the materials are usually still heavy and dangerous if not handled properly. If working on a fixed structure, etc. you may be required to work in cramped and awkward spaces.

The industry has traditionally been dominated by men, but there really isn’t anything to stop women becoming welders. The job is often physically demanding, and as mentioned above, hot, dangerous and dirty. It is probably these factors which keep the industry male-dominated, rather than any other reason.

In general welders will be expected to work an average of 38-40 hours a week. Usually this will be in normal 9-5 days, but there are often opportunities for shift work and overtime. In some cases you may be required to work out of normal working hours, if needed to make emergency repairs to machinery for example. This information should be included in any job description you apply for and your pay-rate should rise accordingly.

Depending on the welding job you are applying for, you may be expected to be familiar with one or more of the main welding technologies.