Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend welding, soldering, or brazing machines or robots that weld, braze, solder, or heat treat metal products, components, or assemblies. Includes workers who operate laser cutters or laser-beam machines.
Common Job Titles
- Fabricator
- Machine Operator
- Mig Welder
- Spot Welder
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate weld quality, joint integrity, and finished product compliance using gauges, calipers, and visual inspection techniques.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate welding, soldering, and brazing machines and robots in manufacturing environments, following production specifications and safety protocols.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate laser cutters, resistance welding equipment, and TIG welding systems to meet precise tolerances and product requirements.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze machine performance data and process outputs during operations monitoring to identify deviations from standards.Developing
- Hands-onExecute equipment setup, adjustment, and changeover procedures for different metal products and assembly specifications.Developing
- Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and basic repairs on welding machinery to minimize downtime and ensure operational readiness.Developing
- KnowledgeApply production and processing knowledge when selecting appropriate welding parameters, materials, and techniques for specific jobs.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work orders to determine setup requirements and fabrication sequences.Developing
- MindsetEngage in safety protocols and hazard awareness practices when working with high-temperature equipment and personal protective equipment.Developing
- KnowledgeSolve operational problems and process irregularities by troubleshooting machine malfunctions and adjusting control parameters.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in team communication and coordination with supervisors and coworkers to optimize production workflow and quality outcomes.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
36,290
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,780. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,480. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,060. 75th percentile: U.S. $55,870. 90th percentile: U.S. $66,190. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $35,780 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $66,190 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,270 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing3.8/5
- Administration and Management3.5/5
- Design3.1/5
- Public Safety and Security2.9/5
- English Language2.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Linux
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Email software
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Microsoft operating system
- Spreadsheet software
- Tool center point TCP setting software
- Word processing software
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Arc welding equipment
- Ball peen hammers
- Bench vises
- Brazing machines
- Brazing robots
- C clamps
- Center punches