Overview
Welders operate welding equipment to weld ferrous and non-ferrous metals. This unit group also includes machine operators who operate previously set up production welding, brazing and soldering equipment. They are employed by companies that manufacture structural steel and platework, boilers, heavy machinery, aircraft and ships and other metal products, and by welding contractors and welding shops, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Welding, brazing and soldering machine operators
Operate previously set up welding machines such as spot, butt and seam resistance or gas and arc welding machines to fabricate or repair metal parts
Operate previously set up brazing or soldering machines to bond metal parts or to fill holes, indentations and seams of metal articles with solder
Start up, shut down, adjust and monitor robotic welding production line
Assist with the maintenance and repair of welding, brazing and soldering equipment
May adjust welding heads and tooling according to work specifications.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$49,742
$66,739
$94,895
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
1,463expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Welding, brazing and soldering machine operators
Some secondary school education is required.
Several months of on-the-job training are usually provided.
Experience as a machine operator helper may be required.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Welders and related machine operators in B.C.
- Welder Red Seal Certification
- Skilled Trades Certification - Welders
Welder Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Skilled Trades Certification - Welders
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a welder or related machine operator in B.C., you may need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.