Human Resources Analyst

Welders join or sever metals in beams, girders, vessels, piping, and other metal components, make metal parts used in construction and manufacturing plants, and weld parts, tools, machines, and equipment.

Welding usually involves applying heat to metal pieces to melt and fuse them together. In electric arc welding, heat is created as an electric current flows through an arc between the tip of the welding electrode and the metal. In gas welding, such as oxy-acetylene welding, the flame from the combustion of burning gases melts the metal. In both arc and gas welding, filler materials are melted and added to fill the joint and make it stronger. In resistance welding, the metal piece itself is melted as current flows through it, and no filler is added.

Welders use different welding processes and fillers depending upon the type of metal, its size and shape, and requirements for finished product strength. For a typical welding project, they:

1. Develop patterns for projects or follow directions given in layouts, blueprints, and work orders.
2. Clean, check for defects, and shape component parts, sometimes using a cutting torch.
3. Weld parts together.

Welders may also build up worn parts by welding layers or high-strength hard-metal alloys onto them.

Working Conditions:

Welders generally work on construction sites. Working conditions are often cramped, dirty, and involve exposure to chemical vapours, wetness, or high noise levels. The normal workweek is 40 hours, but some overtime may be required. There is always some risk of injury involved in working with heavy equipment, especially when working at considerable heights.