Underwater Welder Job Description
Underwater welders repair ships, bridges, oil drilling platforms, pipelines and other underwater structures using various welding techniques. Underwater welders are certified commercial divers and must be prepared to adapt to many different working environments.
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Educational Requirements
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An underwater welder must have a commercial diver’s certification and be a certified welder. It is recommended that welders gain certifications in underwater welding support tasks for additional employment opportunities and advancement.
Job Duties
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Underwater welders photograph projects, then recommend and prepare supplies and equipment. They prepare welding sites following established safety protocols. Underwater welders dive, cut material to specific sizes and shapes, clean areas to be repaired and aid inspectors.
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Advancement
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Underwater welders with several certifications in various types of welding and underwater work will receive better job opportunities and higher pay. They may become project supervisors, welding inspectors or consultants.
Employment Outlook
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Employment opportunities for underwater welders are available, according to the American Welding Society’s (AWS) D3B Subcommittee on Underwater Welding, but will vary according to economic conditions and the welder’s willingness to travel to various geographical locations.
Earnings
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According to the AWS, there isn’t an average salary for underwater welders. Wages range from $15,000 to more than $100,000 annually. Diving methods, depth and diving environments often determine the amount paid for a project.
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References
- Photo Credit underwater viewing image by Oleg Gribanov from Fotolia.com
