• Entry Level Salary

    $39,000

  • National Median Pay

    $44,000

  • Real Go-Getters Make

    $75,000+

  • Sources:  Emsi, 2022

Responsibilities

A typical welder fabricator is tasked with constructing a variety of metal objects. Metal construction often requires more than just welding.  Welder fabricators could be responsible for:

  • Machining fabrication materials and components
  • Fitting, setting, and installing fabricated structures
  • Cutting and welding with a variety of processes
  • Metal forming, bending, and finishing
  • Repair, design, layout, and estimation
  • Overseeing shop hands or helpers
  • Many other industry/trade specific responsibilities

 

Education & Training 

There are many ways to start a career as a welder fabricator. Like every career, education and training lead to further success.

Minimum Education

High school diploma or equivalent.

Advanced Education

Associate degree in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.

Recommended Education

Certificate in welding, metals fabrication, machining, etc.

Recommended Training

Related work experience

Advanced Training

Apprenticeship program

Recommended Certification

AWS Certified Welder or Welding Fabricator

Essential Skills

  • Math 
  • Problem solving
  • Critical thinking
  • Blueprint reading

Work Environment

Primarily in a shop with a variety of fabrication equipment. Occasional field work and travel may be required. 

The heat map below showcases the total number of job postings for Welder Fabricators 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 Welder Fabricator careers are currently in demand.

Top Industries

Transportation

Transportation

Custom cars & motorcycles, aerospace components, light and heavy railway equipment, shipping and maritime components.
Manufacturing

Manufacturing

Anything from small metal supports to massive military equipment.
Infrastructure

Infrastructure

Structures, bridge & highway components, building & structural components.

Similar Careers

Want to explore other careers that have similar work environments, education, training, and responsibilities?

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