How to Be a MIG Welder
Buildings, lawn mowers and sculptures are just some of the things that can be constructed by MIG welding. MIG stands for metal inert gas, and this type of welding uses shielded gas fed through a welding gun to join metal together. It doesn't take long to learn to perform MIG welds, and with training and practice you can be a MIG welder.
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Instructions
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Complete a training program. Training in MIG welding is available across the United States through high schools, community colleges, technical schools and special welding schools such as the Tulsa Welding School. You can find programs in your area by visiting the website of the American Welding Society, which offers a welding program locator searchable by zip code and state. Find out if the program you're interested in teaches a variety of different types of welding or caters specifically to MIG welding.
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Find a company that uses MIG welding. More than 65 percent of welding positions are found in the manufacturing field, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. When seeking a position as a MIG welder, it's important that you find out what type of welding a company uses. Companies that use MIG welding will require you to take a weld test when you interview for a job to see if you have the skills they need.
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Purchase your own safety equipment. MIG welders are required by most companies to have their own safety gear. This includes steel-toed boots, a welding hood, safety goggles and welding gloves.
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Collect your paycheck. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for MIG welders is $13 to $15 per hour. However, this can vary based on experience. Entry-level welders start around $10 per hour and advanced welders make $22 per hour or higher.
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Work toward leadership roles. Shop managers, foremen and production managers often start out as MIG welders before being promoted to management roles. Experience, welding skills and leadership qualities are important if you want to advance to higher-paying positions in the welding field.
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