Welder (First Class)
First Class Welders, also known as structural steel and welding trades workers, work with iron and steel. They cut, shape, join, and solder metals together for projects both large and small. They may also repair large structures like ships or buildings or smaller products like watches or furniture.
Duties and tasks
- Cutting metal to fit the needs at hand
- Operating tools such as soldering irons, flame cutting torches, and metal cutting machines
- Polishing and smoothing finished products to ensure quality
- Surveying the scene or blueprints to determine the scope and nature of any given project
- Using hand tools to cut and shape iron and steel
- Using various welding techniques to join metals together
Skills required
- Ability to manipulate and control dials, switches, and gauges
- Active listening skills
- Hand-eye coordination
- Keen judgment and decision-making abilities
- Knowledge of the properties of metals
Working conditions
Welders usually work in workshops, factories, or plants. They may also work in industries like auto repair, shipbuilding, or construction.Professional associations / Industry information
Master Builders AssociationWelding Technology Institute of Australia
Related jobs and job titles
- Blacksmith
- Boilermaker
- Coremaker
- Engineering Tradesperson
- Foundry Worker
- Metal Fabricator
- Metal Trades Assistant
- Moulder
- Sheetmetal Worker
- Special Class Welder