Welder

Welders join, shape or cut plates or sections of metals together by applying extreme heat. The edges of the metal melt and then blend together as they cool.

The Work

There are three main types of welding: manual (using hand held equipment), semi-automatic and fully mechanised, so the job can vary. Depending on the type of industry you work in you could be:

• studying engineering drawings and deciding on the best welding method for the job


• making sure that the plates or sections for joining or cutting are clean and are shaped and positioned correctly


• hand welding the pieces using methods such as: manual metal arc (MMA), oxyacetylene or tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding


• welding the pieces using a semi-automatic method such as metal inert gas (MIG) welding, using argon or helium


• welding the pieces using mechanised processes such as resistance welding (spot welding) or laser and ultrasonic welding


• inspecting and testing the cuts and joins you make


• specialising in one or two of the welding methods.

Conditions

• Working conditions vary. For example, some welders work indoors, in factories or workshops, others outside, on construction sites shipyards or oil rigs.


• In a factory or workshop, you might work behind screens to protect other workers from glare. Otherwise, you could be working outdoors in all weathers or in cramped conditions.


• You would have to wear tinted goggles or a headshield to protect your eyes. You would also have to wear other protective gear such as overalls, aprons, gloves, ear protectors and a hard hat.


• You would have to take great care to avoid accidental injury.


• You might have to travel to different sites and spend some time away from home.


• Many firms have a shift work system, and there may be opportunities for overtime.

Getting In

• Employers’ requirements vary, but most expect applicants to have a group of Standard grades including English, maths and a relevant science or technological subject.


• You may also have to sit an entry test to see how suitable you are for this type of work.


• From 2010 workers in the construction sector must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent. You must pass a health and safety test to qualify for this scheme. Many construction firms already require a relevant CSCS card to allow workers to work on site.


• Good eyesight and general fitness are necessary for this job. You would also need physical strength and stamina as the job can involve kneeling, bending and lifting.

What Does It Take?

You need to be:

• accurate and methodical in your approach


• reliable and safety-conscious


• good with your hands.

• the ability to visualise the finished item


• the ability to understand technical drawings


• good hand to eye coordination


• practical and technical ability


• the ability to work on your own


• good concentration.

Training

• You would normally train through a Modern Apprenticeship.


• This normally begins with full-time off-the-job training leading to Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) Level 2.


• This is then followed by on-the-job training to SVQ Level 3, combined with day-release classes at college. Relevant SVQs include Welding (Pipework), Welding (Plate) and Fabrication and Welding Engineering.


• After you have trained and before you can be employed, you must also pass a Welder Approval Test.


• The Welding Institute runs training courses in welding and qualifications for inspection and testing.

Getting On

• After gaining experience, you may be able to get promoted to foreman or forewoman or supervisor and then to fabrication shop manager.


• With further training, you may be able to move up to technician level, non destructive testing or inspection work.


• In the engineering and building industries you can become a 'coded' welder (qualified to carry out particular types of work) which shows that your work meets British and European quality standards.


• Some welders work on a freelance self-employed basis, and there can also be opportunities in projects abroad.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual salaries may vary, depending on:

• where you work


• the size of the company or organisation you work for


• the demand for the job.

More Information

Addresses

The following organisation(s) may be able to provide further information.