The Skinny on Underwater Welding Jobs

Nailing underwater structures with lasers of heat to fix a leak or structural problem is prestigious in every sense of the world. Unlike ground activities, any form of underwater work requires dexterity, precision, and a calm demeanor in rigorous territory. Over the past few years, many commercial divers and students have contacted welding societies to explore the possibility of working as underwater welders. In response, the American Welding Society has promoted new job opportunities along with establishing guidelines for those trying to enter the field.

For starters, those seeking underwater welding jobs must have commercial diving certification. Surface welders with no commercial diving experience must undergo a commercial diving course offering a basic commercial diver certificate that is awarded upon completion of a physical and written exam. Going through basic commercial dive training is an excellent decision maker booster and can make or break your underwater welding decision. After training, interviews may be set up with the employee of your choice. Initially, you may be thrust into an apprentice role where you'll be subject to additional qualification tests.

Underwater welders have no age restrictions, although the job is rigorously demanding requiring above average dexterity and endurance. Annual dive physicals should be aced. The Association of Diving Contractors sponsors a dive physical that is recognized in the industry as acceptable - internationally as well.

Underwater welders' salaries depend on their experience and skill set. Cementing a high reputation means tackling on additional qualifications in your field, like underwater cutting specialists, mastery of mechanical cutting equipment, comprehension of inspection, and more. In addition, employers look for underwater welders who can be adept at planning projects through the use of computers and photographs. Since many underwater welding companies have staff members with different specialties, finding a diver-welder with a diverse skill set is highly sought. In many ways, welding works similar to the freelance writing industry. Writers who can create press releases, write articles, craft e-books, propose grants, and write entire books are highly sought after and command the highest prices.

Salaries for underwater welders run the gamut. Many may earn as little as $20,000, while others (based on experience) may earn upwards of $100,000 a year. Typically, underwater welders are paid per project. In addition, diving environment conditions can influence salary. In essence, there are virtually an unlimited number of career opportunities for underwater welders. The engineering and management industries all use this profession as an entryway to bigger careers.