When you look around, it is quickly apparent that metal makes up a great deal of our modern world. It forms buildings, machinery, cars, and more. If metal working has been an interest to you, and you enjoy working with your hands, becoming a metal welder may be an excellent job opportunity for you.
What does a welder do?
A welder works with specialized equipment to mold and shape metals. They may work filling holes, fixing broken pieces, repairing dents, or joining new pieces together. Welders often work outdoors or in special shops and can be employed in a variety of fields. You may find welders working on racing cars, or in manufacturing equipment for sale. Some welders work more on basic tasks, whereas others choose to go through additional schooling and training to become highly specialized and capable of working on very technical jobs. Some professionals may also specialize in particular types of equipment.
How do you become a welder?
There are no universal requirements for becoming a welder. Many interested in entering the occupation will take courses either in high school vocational courses, community college courses, or even complete training through the armed forces of the United States. Most employers prefer to higher workers to have at least some experience and training, although a few are willing to higher new workers with the intention of training them on the job. The American Welding Society does offer some certifications in general welding and other skills through particular schools, which many employers like, and may require. Some will even pay for the education and certification needed for the right candidates. A number of welders like to move on to highly specialized types of welding, and will therefore take continuing education courses to reach this technical level. Courses on all levels will focus on the science aspects behind welding, as well as blueprint reading, and shop mathematics.
How much do welders make?
The income earned by welders varies based on experience, training, technical skills, union membership, and region. Nationally, welders can expect to make around $35,450 per year, or $17.04 per hour. Salaries are also affected by overtime, which is awarded frequently in this line of work.
What are some similar occupations?
For those who enjoy working with their hands and creating, there are other occupations that may also be of interest. One of these occupations may be assemblers and fabricators. These people work putting together items after all the parts have been made. They can work in a variety types of factories, and can assemble products ranging from toy airplanes to iPods. They can often work with a high school diploma and receive most training on the job. People in this occupation can expect to make around $28,360 per year.
Another option would be a boilermaker. People in this career are usually trained through apprenticeship programs that are complemented by classes in a trade schools. They are in charge inspecting, maintaining, and repairing boilers and similar containers. In this occupation, professionals can expect to make around $54,640 per year.
Metal and plastic machine workers would be another choice. These tradesmen work with machines that cut plastics into a variety of shapes and designs for all sorts of uses. Typically they are trained on the job within a few weeks, and many employees do prefer workers who have a high school diploma. Metal and plastic machine workers make around $31,910 per year.
Machinists and tool and die makers are other career paths that allow for creating and working with machines. These professionals use a variety of equipment to make exact parts for tools and equipment. Training is typically done through apprenticeship programs or on the job, and workers can typically expect to make around $31,910 per year.
There are a variety of occupations available for individuals who like to work with their hands and enjoy creating and building. Welding is an important career path that makes useful equipment for a variety of uses and occupations. People interested in pursuing this job path should speak with current professionals and determine the best way to get started in the business in their area.