Welder Job Description [Updated for 2026]

In a world increasingly reliant on infrastructure, the need for skilled welders has never been more critical.

As industries progress, there is a growing demand for proficient craftspeople who can construct, maintain, and ensure the safety of our physical structures.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a welder?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of welding,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable welder job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Welder Duties and Responsibilities

Welders are skilled professionals who work with metal components to assemble and repair various structures and equipment.

Their work involves the use of heavy machinery and tools, and they must follow strict safety protocols.

The following are typical duties and responsibilities of a Welder:

• Interpret blueprints, drawings, and measurements to plan layouts
• Weld small and large components such as copper plumbing, beams, and pipelines
• Use specialized machinery for industrial welding and oversee machines that perform the same job
• Ensure smooth welding processes using manual or semi-automatic welding equipment
• Inspect structures and components to identify errors or faulty equipment
• Repair machinery and other components by welding pieces and filling gaps
• Test and inspect welded surfaces and structures to discover flaws
• Maintain equipment in a condition that does not compromise safety
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, including the use of protective gear
• Perform cutting of metal objects using a plasma cutter or other tools as required

 

Welder Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Welder to cut and join metals at our facilities.

The Welder’s responsibilities will include using specialized equipment to weld and assemble new metal forms and repair existing ones.

Our ideal candidates are proficient in MIG, TIG, and arc welding techniques, and they should have a steady hand and keen eye for detail.

They should also have knowledge of different kinds of metal and their properties.

Ultimately, the role of the Welder is to create and repair metal structures to the highest quality in line with safety standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, plans, and drawings to determine measurements and specifications
• Operate and maintain welding machinery and equipment
• Carry out welding according to set dimensions to meet general test requirements
• Conduct inspections to ensure that the final product meets the established specifications
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment
• Repair machinery and other components by welding pieces and filling gaps
• Test and inspect welded surfaces and structures
• Assist in the selection and procurement of materials and equipment for welding

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a welder
• Experience using a variety of welding equipment and procedures (TIG, MMA etc.)
• Experience in using electrical or manual tools (saws, squares, calipers etc.)
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings
• Knowledge of relative safety standards and willingness to use protective clothing (face-shield, gloves etc.)
• Deftness and attention to detail
• Successful completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is required
• Professional Certification (e.g. an AWS welding certificate) will be a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• On-the-job training opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Welder
• Work Environment: This job operates in a manufacturing and construction setting. This role routinely requires exposure to high temperatures and loud noises.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Welder or Workshop Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Welder Do?

Welders are skilled tradespeople who work in a variety of industries including construction, automotive, and manufacturing.

They use heat to join metal parts together, typically by melting the parts and adding a filler material to form a pool of molten material that cools to become a strong joint.

This process can be done using different types of welding equipment such as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), or gas metal arc welding (GMAW).

Welders also inspect structures or materials to be welded, monitor the welding process to avoid overheating, maintain their equipment, and interpret blueprints or diagrams for the welding project.

They must also be aware of safety procedures and wear appropriate protective gear, such as welding helmets and gloves, to protect themselves from the heat and flying debris.

Welders may work on custom projects where they need to interpret design specifications and measurements, while others may do production work where they repeat the same welds on an assembly line.

In addition, many welders undertake further training and certification to specialize in specific types of welding or materials.

 

Welder Qualifications and Skills

A proficient welder should have the skills and qualifications that are in line with the position, such as:

• Technical knowledge and ability to understand and apply various welding techniques like MIG, TIG, and ARC welding.
• Physical stamina and strength to lift heavy materials and equipment, as well as to stand for extended periods of time.
• Precision and attention to detail to ensure quality work and to avoid errors that could impact the project’s safety and structural integrity.
• Problem-solving skills to identify, diagnose, and rectify any issues that may arise during the welding process.
• Basic math skills for measuring, fitting, and welding metal components accurately.
• Understanding of safety standards and regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and sketches to understand job requirements and specifications.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work accurately with hands and small tools.
• Ability to work independently or collaboratively as part of a larger construction team.

 

Welder Experience Requirements

Starting as an apprentice welder is a common path for gaining the necessary skills and experience in this profession.

These apprenticeships typically last for 3-5 years, during which the apprentice will learn a variety of welding techniques, safety procedures, and blueprint reading under the supervision of an experienced welder.

After completion of an apprenticeship, some welders may decide to pursue specific certifications from organizations such as the American Welding Society.

These certifications can help welders specialize in certain areas of the field and can potentially lead to higher-level positions.

Entry-level welders typically have at least 1 to 2 years of practical experience, often obtained through their apprenticeship.

They are usually proficient in basic welding techniques and safety procedures.

Mid-level welders, with 3 to 5 years of experience, often have a deeper understanding of welding techniques, materials, and equipment.

They may have some level of specialisation in a specific type of welding and are often capable of working with little to no supervision.

Senior-level welders typically have over 5 years of experience.

At this level, they may also possess leadership skills and experience, having supervised junior welders or overseen projects.

They are highly skilled in a variety of welding techniques and have extensive knowledge of safety procedures and regulations.

 

Welder Education and Training Requirements

Welders typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Many welders also complete a specialized training program at a vocational school, technical college, or even on the job.

These programs provide both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training in various welding techniques.

Professional welding certifications are highly desired and often required by employers.

These certifications can be obtained through organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS).

To get certified, welders must pass a test that measures their ability to perform specific welding tasks under set conditions.

In some cases, apprenticeships are available which provide on-the-job training and can last from 3 to 5 years.

During an apprenticeship, aspiring welders learn techniques such as gas tungsten arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, and gas metal arc welding, among others.

Continuing education is also crucial in this field as technology and techniques evolve.

Many welders pursue additional training and certifications to stay updated and improve their skills.

Knowledge of blueprint reading, metallurgy, and safety protocols is also essential for this role.

Regardless of the path chosen, the most important qualification for a welder is demonstrable skill in welding, which can only be acquired through hands-on experience.

 

Welder Salary Expectations

A Welder can expect to earn an average salary of $44,519 (USD) per year.

However, the earnings can differ depending on the welder’s years of experience, level of certification, the industry they work in, and their geographical location.

 

Welder Job Description FAQs

What skills does a welder need?

Welders need to have a good understanding of welding techniques and tools.

They should have manual dexterity, good hand-eye coordination, physical strength, and technical skills to operate machinery and use welding equipment.

Welders also need to be detail-oriented to ensure high quality and precision in their work.

The ability to read and interpret blueprints is also essential for this role.

 

Do welders need a degree?

While welders do not necessarily need a degree, they are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

In addition, they need to complete technical training in welding, which can be acquired through a vocational school or community college.

Welders also need to obtain certification from the American Welding Society or equivalent entities.

 

What should you look for in a welder’s resume?

When examining a welder’s resume, first look for formal training in welding and any relevant certifications.

Experience in different types of welding processes, like MIG, TIG, and stick welding, is beneficial.

Familiarity with reading blueprints and understanding welding symbols is also a plus.

Look for any additional skills relevant to the job, such as fabrication, assembly, or inspection experience.

 

What qualities make a good welder?

A good welder is attentive to detail and prioritizes quality in their work.

They are safety-conscious and are well-versed in proper welding safety procedures.

Good welders are also problem solvers who can troubleshoot and find solutions when issues arise.

Additionally, good physical stamina and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks for extended periods are key qualities.

 

Is it difficult to hire welders?

Hiring welders can be challenging due to the technical skills required for the job.

The demand for experienced and skilled welders often outpaces supply, which can make the hiring process competitive.

Furthermore, the job requires physical fitness, which narrows down the pool of potential candidates.

Therefore, to attract and retain welders, offering competitive wages and benefits, and providing a safe and positive working environment is crucial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the fascinating world of welding.

Surprised?

It’s not just about fusing metal parts.

It’s about shaping the very core of our infrastructure, one weld at a time.

With our handy welder job description template and tangible examples, you’re ready to dive in.

But don’t stop now.

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Each weld is a part of the bigger structure.

Let’s create that future. Together.

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