Welding Trades

Welding trades workers join metal parts by welding, brazing and soldering, and cut and remove defects from metal using a variety of equipment and techniques.

Tasks

  • Selects appropriate welding equipment such as electric arc, gas torch, etc.
  • Connects wires to power supply, or hoses to oxygen, acetylene, argon, carbon dioxide, electric arc, or other source and adjusts controls to regulate gas pressure and rate of flow
  • Cuts metal pieces using gas torch or electric arc
  • Guides electrode or torch along line of weld, burns away damaged areas, and melts brazing alloy or solder into joints
  • Cleans and smoothes weld
  • Checks finished workpiece for defects and conformity with specification.

Entry Requirements

Entrants typically possess GCSEs/S grades or an appropriate GNVQ/GSVQ. Training is typically by apprenticeship incorporating practical experience and technical training. NVQs/SVQs are available at Levels 1, 2 and 3. Welders must normally pass a competency test in the particular type of welding to be carried out.

What could I earn?

Salaries for this occupation tend to start at £30,000 per annum and can progress up to £44,000 per annum.

Is it in growth or decline?

There are currently 8,298 employed Welding Trades in the region.