Welding Career Guide for Beginners

What does a Welding Fabricator do?

Welding fabricators measure, design plans, choose appropriate metals and welding techniques, cut materials, join everything together by applying heat fusion, and construct structural frameworks for buildings, infrastructure, machinery, and all types of metal assemblies.

Skills required

While foundational welding expertise is taught through dedicated training, the following are key skills employers will require:-

How to become a Welding Fabricator

For those just starting their career journey or switching industries, the paths you can train are through college courses, company apprenticeships, T-Levels or direct on-the-job training after being hired for an entry-level role

Training courses in Coventry

As we are based near Coventry, we have listed below local training providers that offer introductory and advanced welding skills courses:

Coventry College provides comprehensive Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas in Engineering. The 1-year Level 2 curriculum is an introduction to engineering and the 2-year Level 3 program delves deeper into Mechanical/Electrical Engineering. Their facilities include an engineering workshop, welding and fabrication equipment, turning and milling machines, 3D prints and CAD/CAM equipment.

The CBWA offer several intensive City & Guild Level 2 approved courses in TIG, MIG and Manual Metal Arc Welding.

MGTS in Coventry provides intensive 1 day courses for experienced welders wanting to upskill in addition to tailored courses for employers wanting to train their staff.

Applying for a Welding Apprenticeship

At Universal Fabrications, we have a strong relationship with MTC who provide Level 3 and 4 programmes at their Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre in Coventry, its flagship facility for their advanced apprenticeship programme.

Competition is strong for an apprenticeship and candidates with good GCSE grades in Maths, English and Science, or welding skills developed through college courses, will have an advantage. As requirements may differ between apprenticeship programmes and employers, it’s advisable to check the specific requirements.

The demand for welding jobs spans across various industries, each requiring different skills and expertise. Below are the 5 most popular industries recruiting welders:-

How much does a welder earn?

While apprentice welders start around £18,000, once certified and depending on location, industrial welders earn on average between £24,000-£35,000 with top salaries nearing £40,000+.

What is the highest paid welding job?

Underwater and Rig welders command higher salaries given their niche expertise ranging between £40,000 and £80,000.

Outlook for welding jobs in the UK

The demand for certified welders and fabricators continues to accelerate which is largely due to industry growth and an ageing welding workforce. According to The Engineer, “skilled workers are retiring without an influx of new talent to fill their shoes”. Therefore, newcomers who are eager to learn have excellent job prospects across manufacturing, construction and engineering firms regionally and nationally.

Working with Universal Fabrications

Our fabrication shop in Coventry serves industries across the West Midlands and the UK. We provide competitive salaries, advancement training, and a positive environment where employees continuously hone skills over long-term careers. For more information on working with us, please visit our Careers page or email us.