The job of a welding engineering technician is the most important connection for an engineer department and welding shop. They are essential for welders\’ jobs and operations.
A technician must be knowledgeable about the various welding techniques, the properties of metals, blueprint reading, metal fitting, and all the codes and standards of the American Welding Society. In other words, the technician knows not only what the welding engineer is specifically doing, but can visualize how the welding shop will accomplish it.
Additionally, a welding engineering technician determines the cutting, fitting, and welding sequences needed to construct metal plates and other shapes as specified on projects by engineers. They need to have knowledge of mathematical functions, spatial reasoning, good communication skills, and the ability to use a broad range of welding equipment and procedures.
Job Description of a Welding Technician
A welding engineering technician is involved in the practical, hands-on welding tasks. Technicians establish, prepare, and test welding and cutting procedures for the various code requirements.
Therefore, a thorough knowledge of all codes and standards for different types of projects is needed. Examples are AWS D1.1 for structures such as buildings and bridges; ASME Section IX for pressure vessels and piping; and API 1104 for pipelines and related facilities.
The job duties of a welding engineering technician may include:
- Layout and fabrication of component parts of products from a variety of metals and other materials.
- Assembly of prototypes in preparation for installation and testing.
- Working from engineering drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions to meet quality and time frame requirements to safely complete projects.
- Installing and removing product prototypes.
- Utilizing various fabrication, installation, and assembly tools such as Metal Inert Gas (MIG) Welding, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding, Shielded Metal Arc (SMAW) or Stick Welding, vertical band saw, drill press, and many others to fabricate, modify, and repair equipment.
- Monitoring building system operations and system performance.
Required Education and Training for Welders
A welding engineering technician must receive a general education in practical math, computer literacy, English, and written and oral communication.
Courses in welding safety, construction site safety, blueprint reading, welding techniques, welding machinery operation, Sheet Metal Arc Welding (stick welding), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), Flux-Cored Arc Welding, fusion, and fabrication are required.
Students must also receive training in draftsmanship, metallurgy, hands-on welding and cutting.
AWS Certification
Welding certification with the American Welding Society (AWS) requires five years of experience plus the required education and training.
A welding engineering technician can also obtain Universal Technician Certification (CFC) to remain in compliance with EPA guidelines while on the job. With certification comes higher pay and job security.
Advanced Welding Techniques Used
Some of the more advanced welding techniques a welding engineering technician may be required to perform include:
- Robotic/Automatic Welding – Although very expensive to acquire and maintain, robotic welding machines are becoming necessary to stay relevant. Skilled operators such as welding engineering technicians are a requirement for automatic welding. Operators are also required to perform routine preventive maintenance.
- Laser/E-Beam Welding – Laser welding uses a laser beam to form welds. Advanced training is needed to learn how to safely handle and operate the beam.
Welding Career Types And Info
Other careers in the field of welding include:
- Welders/Welding Technicians are in demand for commercial, industrial and small business welding and the job growth outlook is very promising. Welding technicians can find employment as MIG welders, TIG welders, pipe fitters, fabricators, combo welders, or sheet metal workers, to name a few.
- Welding Technologists may perform engineering department functions such as research and development of welding. A technologist should be familiar with both the physical and mechanical properties of metal.
- A Welding Inspector inspects the pre-welding environment, supervises welds, and inspects completed welds. This job is extremely important for projects like bridges, elevators, buildings, and vehicles. Accountability and strict attention to detail are the major responsibilities of the inspector’s job.
- Certified Welding Engineers are familiar with all the specifications, codes, and standards for the fabrication and assembly of welded joints. While a bachelor’s degree is required, a master’s degree is preferred for this career.
Welding Training in Texas
If you want to be in control of your life and start a career in welding, we can help. At Southern Careers Institute, we have a 7-months long welding program that can prepare you for advanced study to become a professional welder in Texas.
To begin working towards your career in welding, all you have to do is reach out and request information. Southern Careers Institute can help you prepare to sit for certification exams or to prepare for more advanced learning.
SCI Campuses that offer our welding program are located in Austin, San Antonio, Harlingen, Pharr, Waco, and Corpus Christi, Texas. At SCI, we can help you reach your goals. Our community includes caring instructors, supportive staff, and motivated career seekers just like you.
SCI is an accredited institution authorized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to grant associate degrees or credits toward degrees.
Call us today at 1.833.SCI.TEXAS to speak to an admissions advisor. Our friendly and experienced career training admissions team can help you get started on the road to a better life.
Blog Disclaimer: Information stated in this blog is for general information purposes only. SCITexas.edu not assume or guarantee income earning potential or salary expectations based on the programs offered at Southern Careers Institute.
