Welder

Career Pathway Welder Also known as: Spot Welder; Welder-Fitter; Pressure Vessel Welder; Electric Arc Welder; Production Welder Salary range: Average: $36.00/hour Range: $23.46 – $53.67/hour Source: Government of Canada Job Bank JOB DESCRIPTION Welders permanently join metal pieces by applying heat, using filler metal or fusion processes. They join parts being manufactured, build structures and repair damaged or worn parts. They can also fabricate tools, parts, machines and equipment used in the construction and manufacturing industries. They can work in the renewable energy sector by fabricating, assembling and maintaining structures which are essential for clean energy production including wind, solar, and hydrogen. Work type: Full-time; shift work; rotational work Work environment: Welders have a rewarding career in various industries such as construction, manufacturing and energy and in various settings such as fabrication shops and project sites. They perform hands-on, precision work with specialized tools and techniques to create strong, durable connections. They take pride in their craftsmanship and contributions to larger projects and outcomes. GENERAL JOB TASKS Use various welding processes to permanently join structural steel and metals in the construction and manufacturing industries. Operate and maintain welding tools and equipment, ensuring they are in safe working condition. Inspect workpieces for defects, measure dimensions and ensure alignment and proper fit of welded parts. Prepare materials for welding by cleaning, cutting and shaping metal pieces. Repair and maintain damaged parts or equipment using welding techniques. Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints and weld symbols. Ensure all work complies with quality standards. Follow safety protocols and requirements. TRAINING To become a Journeyperson Welder, an individual must compete the certification examination to be granted a Certificate of Qualification (Red Seal – Welder). A Certificate of Qualification is not compulsory in Newfoundland and Labrador to work as Welder, however registered apprentices and journeypersons often have better career options, job security and wages. To achieve Certificate of Qualification, individuals can explore one of the following pathways: Pre-Employment Program Individuals with limited or no recent work experience in the trade can register and complete a PreEmployment Program (listed under Educational Options) and then Register as an Apprentice with the Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division (ATCD). Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills. Recognition of Prior Learning Individuals with acquired learning from work experience, life experiences and other formal training, which may be equivalent to certain components of apprenticeship training programs, can contact an Apprenticeship Program Officer to discuss Recognition of Prior Learning. Trade Qualifier Individuals who meet the jurisdictional requirements and have at least one and a half (1.5) times the work experience of an apprenticeship term for a designated trades can have their work skills and hours verified by a certified journeyperson and may be eligible to write the certification examination as a Trade Qualifier. EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS Institution: College of the North Atlantic Location: Burin, Corner Brook, Labrador West, Placentia, St. John’s Program: Welder Duration: 36 weeks Delivery mode: On-campus delivery; Full-time Cost (tuition, fees, supplies): Canadian Residents: $7,000.00 (May be subject to change) International Students: $13,700.00 (May be subject to change) Entrance requirements: Eligibility for admission requires one of the following: High School Graduation Adult Basic Education Trades Bridging Certificate Mature Student Requirements Learn more about Entrance Requirements here. Institution: Academy Canada Location: St. John’s, Corner Brook Program: Welder Duration: 36 weeks Delivery mode: On-campus delivery; Full-time Cost (tuition, fees, supplies): Canadian Residents: $21,800.00 (May be subject to change) International Students: $25,600.00 (May be subject to change) Entrance requirements: Eligibility for admission requires one of the following: High School Graduation or equivalent Mature Student (further assessment required) Learn more about Entrance Requirements here. Institution: DieTrac Technical Institute Location: Lewisporte Program: Welder Duration: 36 weeks Delivery mode: On-campus delivery; full-time Estimated cost (tuition, fees, supplies): $16,000.00 (May be subject to change) Entrance requirements: Eligibility for admission requires one of the following: High School Graduation or equivalent Mature Student (further assessment required) Learn more about Entrance Requirements here. ESSENTIAL SKILLS OTHER REQUIRED TRAINING/CERTIFICATIONS Technical skills and aptitude (mechanical, mathematics and complex instructions) Manuel dexterity Hand-eye coordination Problem-solving skills Attention to detail/precision Communication skills Working with others Continuous learning Occupational Health and Safety WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) Certification Standard First Aid Occupational Health and Safety Site-Specific Safety Certifications These may be covered in Educational Program or by employer. CAREER PROGRESSION With experience and additional training, Welders can progress into mentorship, supervisory and management positions. They may specialize in custom fabrication, structural welding and equipment repair. They may start their own contracting business and/or move into teaching/instructor positions. USEFUL RESOURCES: Apprenticeship & Trades Certification Division Government of Canada – Career Planning Red Seal Program BuildForce Canada Labour Market Information