What Does a Aerospace Welder Do?
An Aerospace Welder is a special type of welder who works in the aerospace and aviation industry. This job involves using different types of welding equipment to cut, shape, and join pieces of metal, typically for constructing and repairing aircraft and spacecraft. It's a critical role because the parts they produce must be able to withstand extreme conditions like high pressure and temperature changes.
The work environment can vary depending on their employer. Some Aerospace Welders work in aircraft hangars or manufacturing plants, while others may work in research and development facilities. Irrespective of the location, safety is always a prime concern, so wearing protective gear, like welding helmets and gloves, is a must.
The main responsibilities of an Aerospace Welder include reading and interpreting blueprints, measuring and aligning workpieces, and welding parts together. They must also inspect and test welds or structures to ensure they meet standards or specifications. Moreover, maintenance of welding tools and equipment and following strict safety protocols are equally important tasks in this job.
Being an Aerospace Welder is not just about physical work. It also requires problem-solving skills, an eye for detail, and the ability to work diligently to ensure each part is perfectly made for safety in the sky!
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Understanding Welding Blueprints
- MIG and TIG Welding
- Shop Mathematics
- Material Properties Knowledge
- Metal Inert Gas (MIG) Welding
- Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding
- Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
- Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW)
- Safety Procedures Knowledge
- Measurement and Calibration
- Understanding Aerospace Standards and Specifications
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Communication
- Manual Dexterity
- Physical Stamina
- Coordination
- Critical Thinking
Technical Skills
- Understanding Welding Blueprints
- MIG and TIG Welding
- Shop Mathematics
- Material Properties Knowledge
- Metal Inert Gas (MIG) Welding
- Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding
- Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
- Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW)
- Safety Procedures Knowledge
- Measurement and Calibration
- Understanding Aerospace Standards and Specifications
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail
- Communication
- Manual Dexterity
- Physical Stamina
- Coordination
- Critical Thinking
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma: Obtain a high school diploma, with focus on courses in math, physics, and metal shop
- Technical or Trade School: Enroll in an accredited technical or trade school offering programs in welding technology - preferably one that offers speciality modules in aerospace applications
- Welding Certification: Obtain a Welding Certification from a recognized organization such as the American Welding Society
- Apprenticeship or Entry-Level Job: Gain practical welding experience through an apprenticeship or entry-level position
- Certified Welding Inspector Exam: Pass the Certified Welding Inspector Exam from the American Welding Society, which includes a section on aerospace applications
- Specialized Aerospace Welding Training: Undergo specialized training for aerospace welding techniques, such as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) or Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
- High School Diploma: Obtain a high school diploma, with focus on courses in math, physics, and metal shop
- Technical or Trade School: Enroll in an accredited technical or trade school offering programs in welding technology - preferably one that offers speciality modules in aerospace applications
- Welding Certification: Obtain a Welding Certification from a recognized organization such as the American Welding Society
- Apprenticeship or Entry-Level Job: Gain practical welding experience through an apprenticeship or entry-level position
- Certified Welding Inspector Exam: Pass the Certified Welding Inspector Exam from the American Welding Society, which includes a section on aerospace applications
- Specialized Aerospace Welding Training: Undergo specialized training for aerospace welding techniques, such as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) or Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in most states