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What does a Welder Helper do?

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Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A welder helper is responsible for assisting the welder with set-up, preparing materials, and cleaning up after the welding is completed.

Welder Helper job duties include:

  • Help the welder by preparing materials for welding projects
  • Read and interpret blueprints or welding diagrams
  • Select the correct type of welding equipment and consumables
  • Set up and operate welding equipment according to safety procedures
  • Help position and clamp workpieces together
  • Tack-weld workpieces together to hold them in place during welding
  • Remove slag from welds using a wire brush or power grinder
  • Inspect completed welds for defects and ensure that they meet specifications
  • Repair or replace defective welds

Welder Helper Job Requirements

Most welders helper positions do not require any formal education, although some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. There are no specific certification requirements for welders helpers, although completing a welding program at a trade school or community college can be helpful. Previous experience is not required, although welders helpers who have worked in other construction trades may have an advantage.

Welder Helper Skills

  • Welding
  • Blueprints
  • Metals
  • Cutting
  • Bending
  • Assembling
  • Operating machinery
  • Safety procedures
  • Quality control
  • Inspection
  • Maintenance

Related: Top Welder Helper Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Welder Helper

A welder helper is responsible for assisting the welder with set-up, operation, and cleanup of welding equipment. They may also be responsible for holding materials in place during welding or grinding operations.

The first step to becoming a welder helper is to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many welders helpers have completed a vocational program in welding technology. Some employers may require certification from the American Welding Society (AWS).

Most welders helpers learn on the job, working under the supervision of an experienced welder. They start by performing simple tasks and gradually assume more responsibility as they gain experience. Many welders helpers eventually become certified welders themselves.

Related: Welder Helper Resume Example

Related: Welder Helper Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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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.

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