A welder uses heat to join two pieces of metal. Welders need to know how to set up equipment, prepare the metal, and weld. Understanding blueprints is essential to plan any construction project. Employers prefer AWS certification. The exam has a written section and assesses welding skills.
Skills and Knowledge Required
- Read technical documents, blueprints, and drawings.
- Safety knowledge: use of protective clothing, gloves, helmets, and respirators.
- Physical abilities for laborious work and handling heavy equipment.
- Technical skills: extensive metal and welding knowledge.
- Mathematics: calculations for accurate metal work.
- Communication skills for teamwork and project management.
- Problem-solving for on-time, on-budget project completion.
Certification and Training
- A high school diploma and on-the-job or technical training are required.
- Certification (AWS) preferred by employers.
- Attention to detail and minimal flaw tolerance.
- Steady hands, good coordination, and mastering welding techniques.
On the Job
Welders build ships, cars, planes, and structures. They should demonstrate:
- Technical skills and proficiency in welding techniques.
- Safety procedure knowledge.
- Physical abilities and attention to detail.
- Effective team work and communication skills.
Resumes and Certification
Welders’ resumes should include:
- Technical skills, experience, and certifications.
- Safety knowledge and mathematics for blueprint reading.
Good welders need technical skills, safety skills, physical abilities, attention to detail, communication skills and more.