What Does a Structural Welder Do?
A Structural Welder, sometimes also known as a Ironworker, is a skilled professional who primarily works in the construction sector. They use their in-depth knowledge of welding techniques to build and repair large structures, mostly consisting of metal materials.
As a Structural Welder, you will spend the majority of your time outdoors at construction sites. These might include tall skyscrapers, bridges, or stadiums. You'll often be up high on steel beams, using your manual dexterity and precision to secure parts of the structure together. Safety is a top priority in this field, and you'll need to be comfortable wearing protective gear like helmets, gloves, and harnesses.
Your main responsibilities will usually involve reading and understanding blueprints, precisely measuring and aligning metal parts, cutting and shaping metal, and then using various types of welding equipment to securely join the pieces together. Occasionally, the job might also require you to repair existing structures. Attention to detail is crucial because the strength and stability of the entire structure depends on the quality of your work.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Welding Techniques
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Protocols
- Materials Knowledge
- Equipment Operation
Soft Skills
- Physical Strength
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Time Management
Technical Skills
- Welding Techniques
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Protocols
- Materials Knowledge
- Equipment Operation
Soft Skills
- Physical Strength
- Attention to Detail
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Time Management
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in most states