Benefits of a Career as a welder
Are you looking for a career with strong job security, competitive income opportunities, and the chance to work hands-on in diverse industries? Look no further than welding! In Australia, welding is more than just a trade—it’s an essential skill that fuels the nation’s infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing industries. From building skyscrapers to maintaining pipelines, welders are the backbone of Australia’s growing economy.
With Australia’s increasing demand for skilled welders, coupled with the opportunity to work across various industries and regions, a career in welding is both fulfilling and lucrative. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of becoming a welder in Australia, the skills and qualifications you need, and how you can advance in this exciting field.
Benefits of Pursuing a Welding Career
1. Have strong job stability
As previously mentioned, trade skills such as welding are lacking in Australia. This shortage is expected to continue. This is especially true in sectors such as construction and manufacturing. According to the Australian Government National Skills Commission Welders are listed on the skill priority list. This indicates the continued need for experts in this sector.
Example: In areas such as Western Australia The mining sector is often looking for welders for ongoing projects. To ensure that there are job opportunities for skilled workers.
2. Competitive income opportunity
Welding has the potential to generate income. Especially for those who are willing to work in remote areas or have some technical expertise. Entry-level welders can earn between $60,000 and $70,000, while experienced welders can earn more than $100,000. Welders Salary in Australia
Example: Welders in the mining industry often receive special bonuses and higher hourly rates. Due to the demanding nature of the work and the remote location.
Government Link: Job Outlook - Welders
3. Diversity in work
Welding offers a wide variety of job positions in various industries. This variety keeps the job interesting and allows welders to develop a broader skill set.
Example: A welder might build parts for a new rail system one week. and repair the pipe next week. which shows the agility of the business
4. Physical and proactive work
Welding is a physically demanding job that keeps you active throughout the day. Suitable for those who prefer hands-on work rather than being in an office.
Example: Welders often work in a variety of environments. From construction sites to workshops This requires physical endurance and flexibility.
5. Job satisfaction
The tangible results of welding work lead to a high level of job satisfaction. Seeing a finished product like a bridge or building can be incredibly rewarding.
Example: Welders involved in community projects, such as building a playground or installing public art. They often report feeling great pride in their participation.
6. Advancement opportunities
Welders have many opportunities for career advancement. with additional training and certification They can step into a supervisory role. Become a welding inspector Or have expertise in a field that is in high demand, such as underwater welding. How to Get a Welding Licence in Australia
Example: Many welders start out as apprentices and can advance to senior welding positions or even management roles within a few years.
Government Link: Australian Apprenticeships - Welding
7. Engagement of sustainable practices
Welders play a key role in the development of sustainable infrastructure, such as renewable energy projects (such as wind turbines and solar panels). This type of welding is in line with Australia's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.
Example: A welder working on a solar farm helps build a structure that supports renewable energy production. which contributes to a greener future.
Government Link: Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources - Renewable Energy
8. Global opportunities
Welding skills can be transferred around the world. Providing opportunities to work internationally Many Australian welders find work in countries where there is a high demand for skilled welders.
Example: Welders can take their skills to use in countries like Canada and New Zealand. Qualified professionals are also in high demand.
Government Link: Australian Trade and Investment Commission - Working Overseas
The Cons of Being a Welder
1. Physical needs and health risks
Welding is a physically demanding job. Long hours spent in challenging environments Welders often work in uneven areas, confined spaces, or with extremely high temperatures. This can cause fatigue and chronic physical stress.
Additionally, exposure to extreme heat, UV rays, and welding fumes can pose health risks. Including respiratory problems and skin damage. According to Safe Work Australia, prolonged exposure to welding fumes may increase the risk of lung diseases, such as asthma or pneumonitis, and certain cancers.
Example
In 2017, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified welding fumes as "Human carcinogens" A report published by Safe Work Australia reveals that welders are at increased risk of work-related diseases due to exposure to fumes, gases and radiation.
How to relieve
Use high quality personal protective equipment (PPE), including a respirator. Welding helmet with automatic black hole and fire-resistant clothing
Work in a well-ventilated area. Or use a smoke extraction system to reduce exposure to hazardous substances.
Have regular checkups to look for signs of respiratory or skin problems.
2. Risk of injury from work
Welders face a high risk of injury on the job. including burns, cuts and eye injuries, extreme heat, flying sparks And handling heavy equipment makes safety precautions important. Injuries from welding equipment or electric shocks are also common. Especially if proper safety measures are not in place.
Example
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Workplace injuries in manufacturing and trade including welding It is considered the most common in Australia. Burns and eye injuries from improper use of equipment are frequently reported.
How to relieve
Follow strict safety procedures. and use safety equipment at all times.
Conduct regular safety inspections of your tools and equipment to ensure your tools and equipment are in proper working order.
3. Long and irregular hours
Welders often work long hours. Including nights and weekends. It depends on the project deadline. Welders in industries such as mining or construction may work in remote locations. This caused them to be away from home for long periods of time. This may affect work-life balance. Especially those with families
Example
Welders in Australia's mining sector often work 12-hour shifts on a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) schedule, spending weeks at a time away from home. Although these roles pay well, the lifestyle can also be lonely and physically exhausting.
How to relieve
Look for a position with regular working hours. Instead, work on remote or industrial projects, such as in construction shops or in urban areas.
Negotiate schedules with employers to ensure adequate rest and time off.
4. Career advancement is competitive
Although welding offers many opportunities for growth, career advancement may require additional significant training and certification. Specialized roles such as underwater welding or weld inspection It often requires years of experience and expensive certifications. For some, the financial and time investment can be a barrier to career advancement.
Example
In Australia, underwater welders must hold advanced certifications such as a commercial driver's license. and special underwater welding training Although these roles are highly lucrative, (In some cases earning more than $200,000 per year) But they are also highly competitive and physically demanding.
How to relieve
Start by gaining basic experience and certification, such as Engineering – Certificate III in Construction Trades, and gradually progress to more advanced specializations.
Take advantage of government-backed training programs, internships, and funding options to offset costs.
Government Resource: Visit the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways website to explore apprenticeship and funding opportunities.
5. Exposure to job-specific hazards
Welders often face hazards that come with the nature of their work. This includes working at heights, confined spaces and operating heavy machinery. Different types of welding also have different risks. For example, MIG welding produces high levels of fumes. While TIG welding requires the use of highly flammable materials.
How to relieve
Has undergone specialized training for high-risk environments, such as working at heights or in confined spaces.
Always follow proper protocols for handling hazardous materials and equipment.
Ensure emergency procedures and first aid resources are available at the job site.
Types of welding and skills you need
Popular types of welding
Welding is a specialized trade that includes various techniques. that is suitable for different uses Common types of welding include:
MIG welding: ideal for repairs and heavy-duty construction.
TIG welding: Used for precision work in the aerospace and automotive industries.
Stick welding: Typically used for outdoor applications such as pipe and fence repairs.
Flux core welding: Ideal for high speed applications of rough materials.
Essential skills for welders
If you want to succeed as a welder You will need to develop technical skills and soft skills such as:
Hand Dexterity: Precision and stable hand movements are important.
Problem Solving Ability: Find quick solutions to structural and technical challenges.
Attention to detail: To ensure precision in each weld.
Physical Durability: Welding often takes many hours in demanding environments.
Career opportunities for welders in Australia
Industry employers of welders
Welders are in high demand in many industries such as:
Construction: Welders are essential to the development of structures. From skyscrapers to bridges
Mining: Maintenance and repair of heavy equipment
Renewable energy: building wind turbines and solar farms
Shipbuilding: Welding of ships and submarines for defense and commercial purposes.
Opportunities across Australia
Connectivity opportunities are not limited to major cities, rural and remote areas. Especially in areas with mining and construction projects. There are exciting roles for welders. For example, Western Australia's mining industry is constantly looking for skilled welders to support its operations.
Demand for welders around the world
A welding career can open doors internationally. With certifications such as ISO 9606-1, Australian welders can work overseas in a variety of industries. From Canada to the Middle East
Advancing Your Career as a Welder in Australia
A career in welding offers an exciting pathway filled with opportunities for specialization, skill enhancement, and professional growth.
A career in welding is not just about securing a job; it is about embracing a world of possibilities that includes job security, high earning potential, and the rewarding experience of contributing to important infrastructure projects in Australia. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to specialize and advance further, welding provides ample opportunities for growth and success.
If you're ready to take the first step toward a fulfilling welding career, consider exploring the training programs offered by the Building Institute. With a commitment to excellence and safety, the Building Institute is dedicated to equipping you with the right qualifications and skills.
Additionally, if you're interested in expanding your skill set beyond welding, check out the Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician. This qualification opens pathways into the electrical trade, further broadening your career prospects in Australia’s thriving industries.
Start your journey today with the Building Institute and build a rewarding future in welding and beyond!
FAQ
What is welding? And why is it important?
Answer: Welding is the process of joining materials. They are typically metal or thermoplastic. Using heat and pressure Essential for the construction and maintenance of infrastructure, machinery, vehicles, pipelines, and more, welding powers industries such as manufacturing, mining, and construction.
What industries employ welders in Australia?
Answer: Welders are used in industries such as construction, mining, shipbuilding, energy (including renewable energy), construction, and aerospace.
How much do welders earn in Australia?
Answer: Entry-level welders earn $60,000-$70,000 per year, while skilled or experienced welders can earn more than $100,000. Welders in remote areas or high-demand industries, such as mining, often earn more.
How long does it take to become a certified welder?
Answer: It typically takes 3 to 4 years to complete an apprenticeship and qualify for a third certificate. Short courses are available for basic welding skills. But it may not lead to full commercial certification.
Do welders need insurance?
Answer: Yes, welders, especially those who are self-employed. Liability and workers' compensation insurance should be considered to cover workplace risks such as injuries and damage.
What is underwater welding? And how can I be one?
Answer: Underwater welding involves the repair of pipes, ships, and underwater structures. If you want to be an underwater welder You must have professional diving training and specialized underwater welding certification.
What is robotic welding? And is it a possible career choice?
Answer: Robotic welding involves programming and operating a welding robot. which is often used in construction. It is a growing field that requires welding and automation skills.