Log InSign Up
Article

What does a Pipe Welder do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A pipe welder joins pipes together using a welding torch. They may work on pipelines, in power plants, or in manufacturing settings. Pipe welders must be able to read blueprints and follow instructions carefully. They must also be skilled in operating welding equipment and have a strong understanding of safety procedures.

Pipe Welder job duties include:

  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications
  • Determine the appropriate welding equipment or method based on requirements
  • Operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded
  • Align and fit together fabricated metal parts
  • Tack-weld components and materials
  • Operate welding machines to fuse metal segments together
  • Perform welding sequences in accordance with blueprints
  • Monitor the welding process to avoid overheating the metals or causing distortion
  • Test and inspect welded surfaces and structures
  • Repair damaged metalwork or fill holes

Pipe Welder Job Requirements

Pipe welders are responsible for welding pipes together, as well as performing other duties related to pipefitting. They must be able to read and interpret blueprints and drawings in order to determine the correct way to assemble pipes. Pipe welders must also be able to use a variety of tools and equipment, as well as have a strong understanding of safety procedures. In most cases, pipe welders will need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some jobs may require certification from the American Welding Society (AWS). Most pipe welders will also need to have several years of experience in the field before being able to work independently.

Pipe Welder Skills

  • Pipe welding
  • TIG welding
  • MIG welding
  • Stick welding
  • Flux-cored welding
  • Gas metal arc welding
  • Shielded metal arc welding
  • Oxyacetylene welding
  • Plasma cutting
  • Arc cutting
  • Welding safety

Related: Top Pipe Welder Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Pipe Welder

There are many reasons why someone might want to become a pipe welder. Perhaps they enjoy working with their hands, or they like the challenge of working with difficult materials. Whatever the reason, becoming a pipe welder can be a rewarding career. Here are a few steps to take if you’re interested in becoming a pipe welder.

1. Get an education. While you don’t necessarily need a formal education to become a pipe welder, it can certainly help. There are many trade schools that offer programs in welding, and these can give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this career.

2. Get some experience. Even if you have an education in welding, it’s important to get some real-world experience before you start your career as a pipe welder. Many welders get their start by working as apprentices, shadowing more experienced welders and learning the ropes.

3. Find a job. Once you have the skills and experience necessary to be a pipe welder, it’s time to start looking for work. There are many different industries that use pipe welders, so there should be no shortage of job opportunities available.

4. Keep learning. Even after you’ve landed a job as a pipe welder, it’s important to keep learning and expanding your skillset. Welding is an ever-evolving field, and new technologies and techniques are always being developed. By staying up-to-date on the latest advancements, you can ensure that you’re always providing the best possible service to your clients or employer.

Related: Pipe Welder Resume Example

Related: Pipe Welder Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles