A welder is a professional who fuses metal parts by applying heat. They work in a variety of industries, including construction, automotive manufacturing, and energy extraction. Welders use different welding techniques and equipment to complete a weld, depending on the type of metal, specific purpose, and welding environment, among other factors. Some of the typical duties and responsibilities of a welder include:

• Joining metal parts in flat, vertical, or overhead positions
• Studying engineering drawings, blueprints, sketches, and material safety data
• Calculating dimensions of metal parts to be welded
• Laying out, positioning, aligning, and securing metal parts
• Inspecting workpieces for defects and checking for specifications
• Igniting welding torches and striking arcs
• Selecting welding methods and required equipment
• Cleaning welded metal off excess weld, slag, or spatter
• Filling holes or hammering out bulges and bends
• Mixing and applying protective coatings
• Maintaining equipment and machinery

Welders need both physical and technical skills to undertake several tasks on their job. They should have patience, ensuring the welding process is accurately done. Welders work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in a confined area, and may work more than 40 hours per week.