Skill Sets for an Underwater Welding Career
by Robert Nirrkon
Underwater welding is a well paid, much sought after, profitable and satisfying
profession. Underwater welding also needs a combination of skills. In case you are asking
yourself how to begin in this great career, the American Welding Society makes
recommendations on their web page to encourage young adults to enter the career field of
underwater welding.
To help you find out what it will take, let us take a look at the skills you will need
to have. First you have to be both a professional welder and a commercial diver. It is
essential to have good diving skills and just as essential to place a premium on safety.
Many people are not aware of it but you will spend most of your time in preparation of the
welding job and not the welding activity itself.
To get an underwater welder, you can attend one of the accredited commercial diving
schools. Most of them provide a certificate of achievement and acceptance as a commercial
diver upon completion of your program. Your certification will be completed by a physical
diving and written exam in the school to demonstrate that you have mastered the necessary skills.
If you'd like to get a list of commercial diving schools, contact The Association of
Commercial Diving Education by writing the Association of Diving Contractors -ADC-, 2611
FM 1960 W., Suite F204, and Houston, Texas 77068. Call them at (713) 893-8388 or fax them
(713) 893-5118.
Once completed your training course you are ready to get a job as underwater welder.
Many commercial diving companies that do offer underwater welding will be thankful to take
you on board if you would like to continue after obtaining your certification. Take your
time to look for the right employer and apply for the job you would like to do.
Upon getting that first underwater welding job, a lot of companies will require you to
enhance your skills by passing certain qualification tests. Please ask your potential
employer before you begin working with them what needs they have. Usually you can make a
lot more money if you have taken enough time to further train on the job after starting out.
In case you come from a background as commercial diver, you will simply have to go
through the welding training. It is usually a good idea to be in peak physical condition
since underwater welding can be demanding. The better shape you're in, the better you'll do.
Which are the chances of finding work in underwater welding is a question which comes
to mind usually. Generally the demand for qualified underwater welders is really high. Of
course there are some regional or seasonal variations. Underwater welding provides a lot
of opportunities to further qualify yourself for more sophisticated or difficult jobs. The
more you can position yourself as an expert, the easier it will be to find a well paid job
for you. It's possible to earn a 6-digit salary per year as an underwater welder in case
you are willed to travel or to take the more challenging jobs. Constant learning and
additional certifications are key if you want to succeed in this job that brings welding
and diving together.
In case you consider one of the many
welding careers
for yourself, take the time and inform yourself a bit on the web and get in touch with your
local welding schools to find out more. A rewarding career is awaiting you.
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