Welder Job Description [Free Template, Salary, and Compliance Checklist]

Copy this welder job description, customize in minutes, and post today—complete with salary guidance, OSHA references, and JSON-LD for better visibility. Welding roles are high-demand and safety-critical, so an accurate, compliant posting helps you attract qualified candidates and reduce rework and turnover. As of May 2023, the BLS median pay for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is roughly $49k per year, with higher pay for certifications, night shifts, and hazardous or field work. Use the template and decision guides below to tailor responsibilities, qualifications, and pay to your project, shop, or jobsite.

Quick Definition: What Does a Welder Do?

Define the scope clearly so qualified welders self-select and you reduce screening time. A welder joins metal parts using processes such as MIG, TIG, and Stick according to blueprints, welding symbols, and approved procedures. They set up equipment, select consumables, fit components, and produce welds that meet code, visual, and NDT acceptance criteria while following strict safety protocols. In practice, that can mean fabricating structural steel to AWS D1.1, welding pipe to ASME Section IX, or precision TIG on stainless and aluminum. OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart Q governs general industry welding safety; many employers also require hot work permits and confined space procedures. In your welder job description, specify process, materials, codes, work environment, and testing so the right candidates self-select.

Copy-Ready Welder Job Description Template

Copy this template, align it to your processes and codes, and post today to reach the right candidates fast. Use this welder job description template as-is or edit for MIG/TIG/Stick, pipe, structural, marine, or aerospace roles.

Job Brief

Lead with what success looks like to attract proven, safety-minded talent. We are seeking a safety-minded Welder to fabricate, fit, and weld metal components per drawings and welding procedure specifications (WPS). You will set up equipment, select consumables, and produce high-quality welds that pass visual inspection and, where required, NDT (e.g., bend, RT, UT, PT). The ideal candidate brings strong blueprint reading, attention to detail, and a track record of meeting schedule and quality targets while complying with OSHA 1910 Subpart Q and company safety policies. Customize process, materials, and code references below to match your work.

Key Responsibilities

Interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and WPS/PQR requirements; verify dimensions and tolerances.
Set up and operate welding equipment (MIG/GMAW, TIG/GTAW, Stick/SMAW); select correct electrodes/wire, shielding gas, and parameters.
Fit, tack, and weld assemblies; control distortion; perform back gouging/grinding as needed.
Inspect welds for defects; perform or support NDT (VT, PT, MT, RT, UT) per acceptance criteria.
Prepare and maintain welding surfaces; clean, bevel, and clamp components for proper alignment.
Follow hot work permit procedures; maintain fire watch as required.
Use hand and power tools (grinders, saws, drills) and measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, squares).
Handle materials safely with cranes, hoists, and rigging within qualification limits.
Complete production, quality, and traceability documentation accurately.
Maintain housekeeping, tool care, and equipment preventive maintenance.
Collaborate with supervisors, fitters, and inspectors to resolve fit-up or quality issues.
Adhere to company policies, OSHA standards, and PPE requirements at all times.

Requirements and Skills

Proven welding experience in a shop or field environment; ability to pass a company weld test.
Proficiency in at least one core process (MIG, TIG, Stick); multi-process capability preferred.
Strong blueprint reading; knowledge of GD&T basics and weld symbols (AWS A2.4).
Familiarity with AWS/ASME codes and WPS compliance; understanding of heat input and interpass control.
Ability to use grinders, cutting torches, and measuring/inspection tools.
Basic math and fraction/decimal conversions; ability to read tape measure to 1/16 in.
Strong safety habits; knowledge of hot work, ventilation, and fire prevention.
Effective communication; ability to work independently or on a team to hit schedule.
High school diploma or GED; trade school or apprenticeship preferred.
Valid driver’s license for field roles; ability to travel when required.

Physical and Environmental Demands

Frequently stand, kneel, crouch, and climb; lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.
Tolerate heat, sparks, fumes, and varying temperatures; work in confined spaces or at heights when trained.
Manual dexterity and steady hand control for precision work.
Vision: near/far acuity and color differentiation sufficient to read weld symbols, indicators, and bead quality (reasonable accommodation considered).
Wear required PPE (welding hood, safety glasses, FR clothing, gloves, hearing protection, respirator when applicable).

This section is intended to comply with ADA; if you need accommodation to perform essential functions, please contact HR.

Safety and Compliance

Follow OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart Q (Welding, Cutting, and Brazing) and applicable state rules.
Obtain hot work permits; ensure ventilation and fire watch per NFPA/local policy.
Confined space entry only when authorized and monitored per 29 CFR 1910.146.
Participate in fit testing for tight-fitting respirators when required; maintain medical clearance.
Use lockout/tagout for energy isolation; maintain housekeeping to control trip/fire hazards.

Certifications and Training

Preferred: AWS D1.1 Structural Steel, D1.2 Aluminum, D1.3 Sheet Steel, D1.5 Bridge, or D17.1 Aerospace, as applicable.
Pipe/pressure roles: ASME Section IX qualifications (6G preferred); pipeline roles may require API 1104.
Forklift, overhead crane, and rigging certifications desirable.
Completion of welding apprenticeship, NCCER Welding, or accredited trade program is a plus.
Current OSHA 10/30, Hot Work Safety, and Confined Space training preferred.

Tools, Processes, and Materials

Processes: MIG/GMAW (short-circuit/spray), TIG/GTAW (with/without purge), Stick/SMAW, FCAW.
Tools: welders, feeders, torches, grinders, bevelers, saws, drills, clamps, fixtures.
Measuring/QA: tape, calipers, micrometers, squares, fillet gauges, weld gauges, thermometers/pyrometers.
Materials: carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum; occasional copper, nickel alloys, and pipe.
Consumables: ER70S-6, ER308/309/316, ER4043/5356, E7018, FCAW wires; argon/CO2 mixes.

KPIs and Performance Metrics

First-pass yield/visual acceptance rate (target: ≥95%).
Weld defect rate and rework hours per job or per foot of weld.
Throughput: joints completed per shift vs. plan; on-time task completion.
Compliance: adherence to WPS parameters and documentation accuracy.
Safety: recordable incidents, near-miss reporting, housekeeping score.
Continuous improvement: suggestions implemented, training completed.

Compensation and Benefits Guidelines

Set pay right to fill roles faster and reduce turnover. Set competitive ranges using BLS and local market data, then adjust for shifts, certifications, and risk. As a reference, the BLS (May 2023) national median is ~$49k/year (~$23–$24/hour), with experienced/certified welders and specialty roles (pipe/aerospace/field) commonly above this. Pay factors include process proficiency (e.g., TIG premium), code certifications (ASME IX, D17.1), night shift differentials, travel/per diem, and hazard pay. Revisit ranges quarterly to align with overtime utilization and regional demand.

Typical structure: Base hourly rate + shift differential (+$1–$3/hr) + overtime per FLSA + travel/per diem when applicable.
Benefits to highlight: health/dental/vision, 401(k) match, paid time off, paid holidays, PPE/tools stipend, training/certification reimbursement, per diem for field assignments.

Schedule, Overtime, Travel, and Union Notes

Clarify expectations upfront to minimize no-shows and early attrition. Manufacturing roles often run 1st/2nd/3rd shifts, while construction/field roles require early starts, weekend work, and variable hours tied to outages or weather. Travel may range from day trips to multi-week assignments with per diem and rotation schedules. In union environments, wages, differentials, and overtime follow the collective bargaining agreement (CBA); list the local and reference the CBA where applicable.

Example language: “Full-time, 2nd shift (Mon–Fri, 3:00–11:30 p.m.) with overtime as needed; weekend outage work 1–2 times per month; up to 25% travel; union position per Local __ CBA.”

Variants: Customize by Specialization and Industry

Use these targeted variants to improve applicant match quality and reduce screening time. Use these quick variants to align duties, tools, codes, and environments to the work you need done. A precise role name (e.g., Pipe Welder) improves applicant match quality and reduces screening time.

MIG Welder (GMAW)

Focus on high-throughput production, short-circuit/spray transfer on carbon steel and stainless.
Set parameters for wire feed speed, voltage, and gas mix; manage spatter and distortion.
Typical in fabrication shops, automotive, and manufacturing cells with jigs/fixtures.
Emphasize ability to run consistent fillet welds and rapid changeovers between parts.
Add KPI: parts per hour with defect rate under target.

TIG Welder (GTAW)

Precision welding of thin-gauge stainless and aluminum; excellent hand/eye coordination.
Read and follow purge requirements for stainless tubing; control heat input and distortion.
Frequent in food-grade, aerospace (AWS D17.1), and high-spec fabrication.
Emphasize surface finish, cleanliness, and documentation for traceability.
Add KPI: cosmetic/finish acceptance rate and leak-free joints for pressure tests.

Stick Welder (SMAW)

Rugged field welding of structural steel, repair, and outdoor conditions (wind, moisture).
Select and run electrodes (e.g., E6010 root, E7018 fill/cap); maintain rod handling/dryness.
Common in construction, maintenance, and site erection work to AWS D1.1/D1.5.
Emphasize working at heights, in variable weather, with strong safety culture.
Add KPI: structural joint completion per shift meeting VT criteria.

Pipe Welder

Fit and weld pipe in 2G/5G/6G positions; root pass control and tie-ins to ASME IX/API 1104.
Read isometrics; coordinate with pipefitters on fit-up, hi-lo, and backing.
Perform NDT-ready work (RT/UT acceptance); maintain heat input and interpass control.
Frequent shutdowns/outages, refineries, power, oil and gas; travel/per diem typical.
Add KPI: X-ray acceptance rate and weld inches per shift.

Structural Welder

Fabricate and erect structural members per AWS D1.1/D1.5; strong layout and fit-up.
Use FCAW in addition to SMAW/GMAW; perform back gouging and multi-pass welds.
Comfortable with cranes/rigging, bolt-up sequencing, and working at height.
Emphasize WPS adherence, preheat, and control of welding sequence to limit distortion.
Add KPI: punch-list items per project and rework ratio.

Welder-Fabricator

Combine layout, fit-up, and welding; read full drawings and build jigs/fixtures.
Operate shear/brake/rolls, saws, and basic machining for part prep.
Multi-process capability (MIG/TIG/Stick) across mixed materials.
Emphasize problem-solving, measurement accuracy, and autonomy in small-shop settings.
Add KPI: jobs completed to spec without rework and on-time delivery.

How to Tailor This Template for Your Project or Industry

Be specific about codes, materials, and environment to hire for the exact work you have. A good welder job description is specific about codes, materials, and environment so you hire for the work you actually have. Start with your drawings and procedures, then define the processes and tests you’ll require. If you’re unsure whether to hire a MIG vs. TIG vs. Stick welder, map the process to your dominant material, thickness, and finish requirements. OSHA and AWS requirements often determine PPE, ventilation, and testing—include them to signal professionalism. Edit the template bullets to reflect your production goals, inspection method (VT, NDT), and schedule.

Decision Checklist

Environment: shop vs. field; temperature, wind, heights, confined space.
Codes and procedures: AWS (D1.1, D17.1, etc.), ASME IX, API 1104; WPS availability.
Materials and thickness: carbon vs. stainless vs. aluminum; thin gauge vs. heavy plate.
Processes: MIG for throughput, TIG for precision/cleanliness, Stick/FCAW for field/structural.
Tolerances and finish: cosmetic TIG vs. production fillets with grinding allowed.
Inspections: VT only vs. NDT (RT/UT/PT/MT); acceptance criteria and documentation.
Power and tooling: available machines, fixtures, purge equipment, cranes/rigging.
Schedule: shift, overtime, weekend outages; travel/per diem.
Safety: hot work permits, ventilation/respiratory protection, fit testing, LOTO.
Union/CBA: wage rates, shift diffs, job classifications, progression steps.

Seniority Ladder (Apprentice → Journeyman → Senior/Lead)

Apprentice/Entry-Level: basic safety and tool use, assist with fit-up, perform tack/fillet welds, learn WPS basics; close supervision. KPI focus: training completions, VT pass rate on practice joints.
Journeyman/Mid-Level: independently read prints, set parameters, complete multi-pass welds to code, assist with NDT prep; limited supervision. KPI focus: first-pass yield, throughput vs. plan, documentation accuracy.
Senior/Lead: multi-process expert; sets up complex jobs, mentors others, interfaces with QA/inspectors, helps write/qualify WPS/PQR; may lead small crews. KPI focus: team quality metrics, rework reduction, schedule adherence.

Pre-employment Weld Tests and Onboarding

Specify your test and onboarding plan up front to reduce rework and speed time-to-productivity. Testing up front reduces costly rework later. List the joint, position, process, and acceptance criteria you’ll use in pre-hire tests so applicants can prepare. Pair that with a structured onboarding plan that covers safety, WPS training, and early productivity targets. Include respirator medical clearance/fit test if required by your environment. Use 30/60/90-day milestones to align expectations with supervisors.

Sample Weld Test Tasks

Plate 3G/4G SMAW to AWS D1.1: E7018 fill/cap; visual plus bend tests (face/root) per code.
Pipe 6G GTAW/SMAW or GTAW/GMAW to ASME IX: open root GTAW, fill/cap SMAW; RT/UT acceptance.
Stainless TIG on thin gauge: autogenous and with filler; VT focus on heat tint/oxidation control.
Aluminum TIG or MIG: fillet and butt joints; VT per finish requirements; optional dye penetrant (PT).
FCAW structural test: multi-pass groove weld with back gouge; VT and bend tests.
MIG production test: multi-position fillet welds on carbon steel; macro etch or VT per WPS.

State acceptance criteria clearly (e.g., no cracks, undercut within spec, penetration per WPS). Candidates should sign off on safety briefing and hot work rules before testing.

30/60/90-Day Success Plan

30 days: complete safety orientation (OSHA, hot work, LOTO), respirator fit (if needed), WPS training; achieve ≥90% VT pass rate on assigned joints.
60 days: meet throughput targets on core tasks; demonstrate parameter logs and documentation accuracy; zero recordable safety incidents.
90 days: multi-process proficiency as role requires; contribute a quality or safety improvement; sustain ≥95% first-pass yield and on-time task completion.

FAQs

Use these quick answers to set accurate expectations with hiring managers and candidates.

What skills does a welder need most?

Prioritize skills that protect quality, schedule, and safety. Core welder skills include blueprint reading, process setup (MIG/TIG/Stick), fit-up and distortion control, and safety discipline. Quality awareness—identifying porosity, undercut, lack of fusion—and proper corrective action is essential. Soft skills like communication and time management improve throughput and reduce rework. For code work, WPS adherence and documentation are non-negotiable. Tailor your welder requirements and qualifications to reflect these priorities.

How do MIG, TIG, and Stick welders differ?

Choose the process that best fits your materials, environment, and inspection needs. - MIG (GMAW): fastest for production on steel and stainless; ideal for shops using jigs/fixtures.

TIG (GTAW): cleanest and most precise; best for stainless, aluminum, and thin materials; slower.
Stick (SMAW): most rugged and portable; excels outdoors and for structural/repair work. Pick based on materials, environment, finish, and inspection requirements; reflect the chosen process in your welder duties and responsibilities.

What certifications are required?

Map certifications to your code and industry to streamline screening. Requirements vary by industry and code. Structural steel often uses AWS D1.1; aluminum D1.2; aerospace D17.1; bridges D1.5. Pipe/pressure work uses ASME Section IX; pipelines may require API 1104. Ask for current continuity logs or administer an in-house weld test to your WPS acceptance criteria.

What is a competitive salary for welders?

Use market data plus role complexity to set ranges that convert. BLS reports a national median around $49k/year, but local rates vary with industry, shifts, and certifications. Oil and gas, power, and aerospace roles typically pay above manufacturing baselines, and night shift or field work often includes differentials or per diem. Benchmark using BLS OES code 51-4121 plus recent local postings; adjust for ASME/AWS certs and required travel.

Related Roles and Next Steps

Expand your candidate pool and hiring plan with adjacent roles and a clear posting workflow. - Related roles: Welder-Fabricator, Pipefitter, Structural Ironworker, Welding Inspector (CWI), Machinist, Metal Fabricator.

Next steps: Create interview questions focused on process knowledge, WPS adherence, and defect troubleshooting; stand up a practical weld test aligned to your WPS; publish with the JSON-LD above; review compensation quarterly against BLS and local postings.
Compliance note: Cite OSHA 1910 Subpart Q in postings and onboarding; map certifications to AWS/ASME/API codes that apply to your work; include ADA/EEO language and union notes where relevant.

Sources and authority: OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart Q; AWS D1.1, D1.2, D17.1; ASME Section IX; API 1104; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (51-4121).