Top 11 Welding Engineer Certifications

Certifications are an important part of any welding engineer’s job market profile. Certifications demonstrate to employers that the welding engineer has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties. They also provide a benchmark for employers to judge applicants against when considering them for employment. Certifications can also be used to differentiate welders from other applicants, as they are tangible evidence of technical proficiency and experience in the field. In addition, many certifications provide continuing education credits that help welding engineers stay up-to-date on new techniques or technologies. Finally, many certifications allow welding engineers to use certain tools or materials that they may not otherwise be able to access without certification.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Welding Engineers and explains how they can help to advance a welding engineer's career.

What are Welding Engineer Certifications?

Welding engineer certification is a program designed to recognize individuals who have attained a high level of expertise in the welding engineering field. It is an internationally recognized certification that is awarded by the American Welding Society (AWS).

The certification process includes passing a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as metallurgy, welding processes and procedures, design, fabrication, quality control and inspection. Individuals must also demonstrate their knowledge of applicable codes and standards related to welding engineering.

Having welding engineer certification can help individuals stand out in the job market and be more attractive to employers. It is an indication of a person's commitment to excellence in the welding engineering field and provides tangible proof of their skills and expertise. Employers may also prefer candidates with this type of certification because it shows that they are up-to-date on industry trends and best practices related to welding engineering.

In addition, having welding engineer certification can open up more career opportunities for individuals because they will be able to apply for jobs that require higher levels of expertise or specialized knowledge. The certification can also provide them with access to exclusive education and training programs offered by AWS or other organizations. Finally, having this type of credential can lead to higher wages as employers often reward certified professionals with greater salaries than those without certifications.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a welding engineer certification, be sure to research the specific requirements and qualifications for your field of interest. Many certifications require experience in welding, as well as passing an exam or completing a course. Additionally, some certifications may require additional training or continuing education credits to maintain the certification.

Related: What does a Welding Engineer do?

Top 11 Welding Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Welding Engineers today.

1. American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

The American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is a professional certification that demonstrates proficiency in welding inspection and quality control. The CWI is the most recognized welding inspector certification in the industry and is considered the gold standard for welding inspectors.

To become a CWI, an individual must pass an examination administered by AWS. The exam consists of three parts: a written portion, a practical portion, and an oral portion. The written portion tests knowledge of welding codes, standards, and specifications; the practical portion evaluates hands-on skills; and the oral portion tests communication skills. It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the exam depending on prior experience.

In order to qualify to take the exam, applicants must have at least four years of relevant work experience or hold certain certifications such as a Certified Welder or Certified Welding Educator from AWS. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of their work experience or certifications when they apply for the exam.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This cost includes registration fees and materials such as study guides and practice exams.

2. AWS Certified Welding Educator (CWE)

AWS Certified Welding Educator (CWE) is an internationally-recognized certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in welding education. It is administered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The CWE certification is a voluntary program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and expertise in welding education.

The CWE certification process includes a written examination and an oral interview. The written exam consists of questions related to welding theory, safety, code requirements, and best practices. The oral interview covers topics such as teaching methods, student assessment, curriculum development, and professional development.

To become certified as a CWE, applicants must have at least five years of professional welding experience or three years of teaching experience in a recognized welding school or college. Applicants must also submit documentation demonstrating their qualifications for the program and pass the written exam with a minimum score of 70%.

The entire process typically takes about six months from start to finish.

The cost of the AWS Certified Welding Educator (CWE) certification varies depending on the type of application you are submitting. For example, if you are applying for an initial certification it will cost $300 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees; if you are renewing your certification it will cost $200 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees; and if you are applying for recertification it will cost $100 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

3. AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welding (CRAW)

AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welding (CRAW) is an advanced welding certification program developed by the American Welding Society (AWS). It is designed to recognize and certify welders who have achieved a high level of proficiency in robotic arc welding. The certification verifies that the welder has mastered the skills necessary to produce quality welds in a robotic environment.

The CRAW certification requires applicants to pass a written exam and demonstrate their welding skills through practical performance tests. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as safety, metallurgy, welding theory, and robotics. The performance test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to set up, operate, and troubleshoot robotic arc welding systems.

It typically takes about 6 months for an applicant to prepare for the CRAW certification exams. Applicants must first complete a training course on robotic arc welding before taking the exams. AWS offers several courses that cover the topics needed for the CRAW certification. After completing the training, applicants can register for the exams with AWS and begin studying for them.

The cost of obtaining the CRAW certification depends on which type of exam you take. The written exam costs $250 while the performance test costs $500 per hour plus travel expenses if applicable.

4. ASME Section IX – Qualification Standard for Welding and Brazing Procedures, Welder Performance Qualifications

ASME Section IX – Qualification Standard for Welding and Brazing Procedures, Welder Performance Qualifications is a standard established by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) that provides requirements for qualifying welders and brazers in order to ensure that they are qualified to perform welding and brazing operations. The standard covers the qualification of welders, brazers, and welding operators; qualification of welding procedures; qualification of personnel performing nondestructive examinations; and qualification of welding supervisors.

The process for obtaining ASME Section IX certification typically takes anywhere from 4-6 weeks depending on the complexity of the application. To obtain certification, an applicant must submit an application package including: a completed application form, evidence of prior qualifications or experience, a written test, and a practical performance test. The cost for obtaining certification varies depending on the type of testing required but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

5. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Welder

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certified Welder program is a certification program that recognizes welders who have achieved a high level of skill in welding. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that the welder has the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform welding tasks safely and efficiently.

To become an NCCER Certified Welder, individuals must first complete an approved welding curriculum from an accredited training provider. This includes courses in welding safety, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and welding processes. After completing the curriculum, students must then pass a written exam and demonstrate their welding skills by passing a performance test. The performance test involves demonstrating proficiency in various types of welds such as fillet welds, groove welds, and T-joints.

The cost of becoming an NCCER Certified Welder depends on the training provider. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the type of training program chosen.

Once all requirements are met and the individual passes both exams they will receive their NCCER Certified Welder credential which is valid for five years from the date of issuance. To maintain their certification status after five years they must retake the written exam every two years or take additional training courses as required by their employer or training provider.

6. American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 – Standard for Welding Pipelines and Related Facilities

The American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 Standard for Welding Pipelines and Related Facilities is a comprehensive welding standard that provides guidelines for the fabrication, inspection, and testing of pipeline welds. It covers all aspects of welding, from pre-weld preparation to post-weld heat treatment. The standard also includes requirements for welding personnel qualifications and quality control procedures.

It typically takes 2-3 weeks to receive an API 1104 certification after submitting an application and paying the required fee. To get certified, applicants must successfully pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as the American Welding Society (AWS). The cost of the certification varies depending on the organization administering the exam, but it typically ranges from $250-$500.

7. International Institute of Welding (IIW) International Certification in Welding Inspection

The International Institute of Welding (IIW) is an international non-profit organization that promotes the science and technology of welding, joining, and allied processes. The IIW offers a certification program for welding inspectors which is recognized by many countries around the world.

The IIW Certification in Welding Inspection is a rigorous program that covers all aspects of welding inspection from visual inspection to non-destructive testing. It includes topics such as welding metallurgy, weld joint design, codes and standards, safety regulations, and quality control procedures. To become certified, applicants must pass a written examination as well as a practical assessment.

The length of time it takes to complete the certification process depends on the individual applicant's level of experience and knowledge. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all requirements for certification.

To get started with the IIW Certification in Welding Inspection process, applicants must first register with the IIW and pay an application fee. After registering, they will be provided with study materials and access to online resources to help them prepare for their examinations. Once they have completed their studies and are ready to take their exams, they must submit an application form along with proof of their qualifications before taking the exam.

The cost of the IIW Certification in Welding Inspection varies depending on the country where you are applying for certification but generally ranges from $500-$2000 USD. This cost includes registration fees, study materials, exam fees and any other associated costs such as travel expenses or accommodation costs if required.

8. NACE International – Certified Coating Inspector Program

The NACE International – Certified Coating Inspector Program (CCI) is a comprehensive program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to inspect protective coatings applied to steel surfaces. The program consists of three levels of certification: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. All three levels require successful completion of a written examination as well as practical application of coating inspection techniques.

Level 1 focuses on basic coating inspection principles and processes, including surface preparation, coating selection and application methods. It also covers the use of visual inspection tools such as holiday detectors and thickness gauges. This level requires approximately 40 hours of study time and takes about two weeks to complete. The cost for this level is $1,000 USD plus applicable taxes.

Level 2 builds upon the concepts learned in Level 1 by introducing more advanced topics such as failure analysis, environmental considerations, corrosion control strategies and quality assurance/quality control procedures. This level requires approximately 80 hours of study time and takes about four weeks to complete. The cost for this level is $2,000 USD plus applicable taxes.

Level 3 is the most advanced level in the CCI program and focuses on specialized topics such as blast cleaning specifications, hazardous materials management, safety practices and project management principles. This level requires approximately 120 hours of study time and takes about six weeks to complete. The cost for this level is $3,000 USD plus applicable taxes.

Upon successful completion of all three levels, candidates will receive their NACE International – Certified Coating Inspector certification which is valid for five years from the date it was issued. After five years they must recertify by taking an exam or completing additional training courses that have been approved by NACE International in order to maintain their certification status.

9. Canadian Standards Association CSA W178 – Level 1 & 2 Certification in Structural Steel & Aluminum Welding

The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) W178 – Level 1 & 2 Certification in Structural Steel & Aluminum Welding is a certification program that provides welders with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively weld structural steel and aluminum components. This certification is recognized by employers, regulatory bodies, and other organizations as a mark of quality assurance for welders.

The CSA W178 – Level 1 & 2 Certification in Structural Steel & Aluminum Welding consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. To obtain the Level 1 certification, a welder must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of welding safety, welding processes, welding symbols, welding techniques, and inspection procedures. The Level 2 certification requires the successful completion of a practical test that evaluates the welder’s ability to perform specific welding tasks.

The CSA W178 – Level 1 & 2 Certification in Structural Steel & Aluminum Welding can typically be obtained within one to two weeks depending on the availability of testing centers and exam schedules. To get certified, interested individuals must first register with the CSA by filling out an application form online or through mail-in service. After registering, they will receive instructions on how to proceed with the testing process including how to schedule an exam date.

The cost of obtaining the CSA W178 – Level 1 & 2 Certification in Structural Steel & Aluminum Welding varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$500 USD per level. This cost includes registration fees as well as any additional materials needed for the exams such as study guides or practice tests.

10. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX – Qualification Standard for Welders, Brazers, and Welding Operators

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX – Qualification Standard for Welders, Brazers, and Welding Operators is a set of requirements for welders, brazers, and welding operators to qualify for welding work on boilers and pressure vessels. This code section outlines the qualifications that must be met in order to weld or braze these components.

To become certified under ASME Section IX, an individual must pass a written test as well as a practical exam. The written test covers welding theory, safety procedures, and other related topics. The practical exam requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to properly perform welds and brazes according to the standards outlined in the code.

The certification process typically takes about four weeks from start to finish. To get started, an individual must first register with an approved testing agency such as the American Welding Society (AWS). Once registered, they will need to complete a series of courses covering the topics outlined in the code before taking the written and practical exams.

The cost of becoming certified under ASME Section IX varies depending on where you take your courses and exams. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1000 USD depending on what type of certification you are seeking (welder only or welder/brazer).

11. American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT) Level III Certification in Visual Testing

American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT) Level III Certification in Visual Testing is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to perform visual testing. This certification is offered by the American Society of Non-Destructive Testing (ASNT), which is an international professional organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of non-destructive testing.

The certification process consists of three main parts: a written exam, practical exam, and an oral exam. The written exam tests your knowledge on the fundamentals of visual testing and covers topics such as principles of light, optics, illumination techniques, interpretation techniques, and safety considerations. The practical exam requires you to demonstrate your ability to perform various visual tests using different equipment. Finally, the oral exam tests your understanding of the concepts covered in both exams and evaluates your ability to apply them in a real-world setting.

In order to be eligible for ASNT Level III Certification in Visual Testing you must have at least three years of relevant work experience or have completed an approved course in visual testing. You must also pass all three parts of the certification process with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for ASNT Level III Certification in Visual Testing varies depending on whether you are taking the online or classroom version of the course. The online version costs $595 while the classroom version costs $795. It typically takes around four months to complete all three parts of the certification process if you are taking it online or six months if you are taking it in a classroom setting.

Do You Really Need a Welding Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your particular situation. If you are looking to become a certified welding engineer, then yes, it is essential that you obtain a welding engineer certificate. A welding engineer certificate is a professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge and experience in welding engineering principles and processes. It is designed to validate the competency of individuals who work in the field of welding engineering.

The certification can be obtained through various educational institutions or organizations, including the American Welding Society (AWS). To obtain a certificate, you must pass an exam and demonstrate proficiency in welding techniques, safety procedures, and other related topics. In addition, some employers may require certification for certain positions.

In most cases, obtaining a welding engineer certificate is not required for entry-level positions in the industry. However, having one can be beneficial as it demonstrates your knowledge and commitment to the profession. Additionally, having a certificate can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions within the industry.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a welding engineer certificate depends on your individual goals and objectives as well as any requirements set forth by employers or educational institutions. If you feel that obtaining such certification would be beneficial to your career prospects then it may be worth considering pursuing one.

Related: Welding Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Welding Engineer Certifications

1. What welding engineer certifications are available?

Answer: The American Welding Society (AWS) offers several professional certifications for welding engineers, including the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI), and Certified Welding Educator (CWE).

2. How do I become certified as a welding engineer?

Answer: To become certified as a welding engineer, you must first meet the minimum requirements for the AWS certification you’re interested in, then complete an approved training program and pass an examination.

3. What is the cost of getting certified as a welding engineer?

Answer: The cost of getting certified as a welding engineer will depend on the specific certification you choose to pursue. Generally, fees range from $200-$500 for most AWS certifications.

4. How long does it take to become a certified welding engineer?

Answer: It typically takes 4-6 months to complete the required training and pass the exam needed to become a certified welding engineer.

5. Is there any additional education or experience required before becoming a certified welding engineer?

Answer: Yes, before becoming a certified welding engineer, you must have at least three years of experience in design engineering, fabrication engineering, or related fields and/or have completed an accredited degree in engineering or related sciences.