What does a welder do?
Welders use various machines that create intense heat and seal the metal together. They fabricate metal parts. Welders should also ensure a good finish of the product they are working on. To do so, they smooth and polish metal surfaces once they have been welded. Welders are responsible for maintaining the welding machinery and equipment they use. They should inspect the structures welded and ensure that there is no overheating in the welding process.
Welder skills and qualifications
A welder must be comfortable using potentially dangerous equipment. They should follow safety precautions at all times. Ideal candidates for this role have a steady hand and great attention to detail. Having knowledge of different types of metal and their properties is essential. Successful welder candidates have the following skills to be able to fulfil their duties in the role:
- A detail-orientated and methodical approach
- Experience with various welding equipment
- Ability to use electrical or manual tools
- Understanding of technical documents and drawings
- Manual skills and a steady hand
- A good level of fitness and resilience
- Knowledge of basic safety standards and willingness to use protective clothing
Welder experience requirements
A welder is responsible for assembling pieces of metal or repairing damaged components. To do so, a welder uses heavy-duty machinery that emits high heat, melting the metals into shape. This job is very technical and experience is a plus. Candidates for this role should demonstrate their experience using a variety of welding equipment and procedures, as well as experience using electrical or manual tools such as saws, squares and calipers. A welder’s job at entry level requires basic experience that can be gained through an apprenticeship. Other welding jobs necessitate a wider range of experience and expertise. This is especially the case for specialised welders who practise underwater welding, for example. These highly skilled professionals mostly work in shipbuilding or on offshore rigs. They can even be called on to explore new shipwrecks under the sea.
Welder education and training requirements
As for many manual jobs, different routes are available to become a welder. These include college courses, apprenticeships, on-the-job training or even specialist courses run by private training organisations. Relevant college courses include the Level 2 Award in Welding Skills, Level 2 Award in Welding Techniques and Skills, Level 3 Diploma in Fabrication and Welding Engineering Technology, and the T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control. Candidates should look into each course specification and identify which is best for their level of welding or their desired career path.
Welder salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a welder in the United Kingdom is £18.12 per hour. As with many jobs, salaries vary depending on the level of experience, the employer, the location and the fluctuation between market demand and jobseekers at the time of the application.
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Welder job description FAQs
What can the tasks of a beginner welder include?
A welder who has little experience will be performing simple tasks such as those on assembly lines, or more repetitive welding tasks. In this role, robots might be used by the welder to join body panels or perform spot welds. Beginner welders do not require in-depth knowledge of metal properties or the type of wires or gas that are required to produce the desired welding outcome.
How can candidates gain work experience in welding?
On-the-job training, apprenticeships or volunteering will give welders a foundational experience and the basic skills they need. Work shadowing with a work placement in a company can be an option, even if just for a day.
Who might a welder work with?
A welder often works as part of a team, alongside various other types of labourer. They might also work with architects and structural engineers on projects that require that expertise. The specialisation of the welder will influence who they work with.
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