- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- the ability to work on your own
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to analyse quality or performance
- physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- following engineering drawings and instructions for each job
- checking dimensions and thicknesses of materials
- preparing and setting out materials to be joined or repaired
- calibrating tools and machinery
- operating welding equipment
- inspecting and testing welds and joins, using precision measuring instruments
- cutting up and dismantling metal structures
- cleaning tools, equipment and work areas
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
You could work on a construction site, on a demolition site or in a workshop.
Your working environment may be hot, cramped and at height.
You could become a supervisor or fabrication workshop manager.
You could also work in welding inspection, non-destructive testing and quality control. With commercial diver training, you could specialise in underwater welding, for example in marine engineering.
You can find out more about welding careers through the Engineering and Construction Industry Training Board and The Welding Institute.
