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Entry Level Salary
$51,000
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National Median Pay
$68,000
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Real Go-Getters Make
$100,000+
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Source: Emsi, 2022
Responsibilities
- Safe and efficient welding underwater, in a cofferdam, or other marine environment
- Preform cutting, fitting, and rigging, to salvage sunken equipment
- Calibrate all materials and equipment for welding and diving
- Identify weld discontinuities and defects, and perform nondestructive testing.
- Survey waters of various depths for obstacles and perform underwater photography and recording
Education & Training
Education and training that can lead to a successful career may include:
Minimum Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum Training
Commercial diving certification
Recommended Education
Certificate in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.
Advanced Education
Associate degree in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.
Preferred Education
Underwater welding and commercial diving program
Recommended Training
Related work experience as welder or diver’s tender
Advanced Training
Apprenticeship program
Recommended Certification
AWS Certified Welder
Essential Skills
- Highly motivated and self-directed
- Prepared to adapt to a challenging work environment
- Flexible and able to work in a team environment
- Organized and detail oriented
- Focused under pressure
- Maintain physical strength and superior fitness
Work Environment
Underwater welders work in a variety of industries that are integrated within aquatic environments. Nearly all opportunities exist along the coastal regions and may require travel.
The heat map below showcases the total number of job postings for Underwater Welders in the last twelve months by state. As shown, the darker the color of the state, the higher the concentration of job postings. The heat map is intended to provide insight into areas where Underwater Welder careers are currently in demand.
Top Industries
Transportation
Ship Building and Maintenance, Subsea Pipelines, Maritime Salvage and Recovery
Industrial
Power Generation, Offshore Drilling, Water Treatment Facilities, Open Ocean Wind Turbines
Infrastructure
Waterway Structures, Dams and Levees, Seawalls and Marine Docks
Similar Careers
Want to explore other careers that have similar work environments, education, training, and responsibilities?
- Commercial Diver
- Shipfitter
- Offshore Welder