The salary of welders varies greatly due to numerous factors. This article aims to discuss these factors, besides various other aspects of their job.
Something as complex as welding, that involves fire and metals with bits of material scattered around, may not apparently be a very satisfying job. However, there is something gratifying about joining metal frames and filling gaps in pipes, that welders love doing them. They usually work in workshops, factories, or plants. They may also work in industries like energy, shipbuilding, or construction.
Salary Range
The salary range of a welder is mostly dependent on the following factors:
- Their skills
- Type and size of the employer
- Work experience
As their responsibilities increase, the earning prospects also rise. They can also work as welding technicians, supervisors, and inspectors, but these designations demand good amount of work experience in this area. The disparity in the pay scale is also due to the different industries that they work in. While those in the agriculture industry earn about USD 15 per hour, those in the manufacturing and construction industry can make nearly USD 17 per hour.
Their earning potential averages between USD 35,000 to USD 60,000 per annum. The career growth path for welders is bright and if one works hard, then he can easily scale up to higher positions like those of supervisors and welding experts. That would increase the chances of earning a higher pay. Besides that, they are entitled to various benefits such as the 401(k) retirement plan and life disability insurance.
Job Description
Welders are an integral part of the industrial workforce, who work tirelessly to impart strength and stability to various metals, by joining them to different types of metal alloys. They are required in the construction and repair of automobile parts, aircraft, machines, and other metal products. They also work on construction sites such as bridges or buildings. They provide the blueprint of the metal design and specifications that are to be used in the welding process. The ability to recommend alloys and metals forms an important part of their job.
An interesting fact is that there are nearly hundred methods of welding and learning all of them is not an easy task. It requires patience and loads of hard work. Generally, it is more like on-the-job practice, so the one who works for a considerable time in this domain can only master its intricacies.
Although a high school diploma is not required, knowing subjects such as mathematics, physics, and chemistry is helpful. It is also advisable to enroll for a technical program at a vocational school and complete an apprenticeship. Some states require the workers to be certified on the domain, therefore, check the local requirements of your state on the related website.