Robotic Welder is a skilled person who operates and maintains robotic welding equipment to join metal components together. The primary objective of a robotic welder is to ensure accurate and efficient welding operations while maintaining a high level of quality and productivity. These individuals work in a variety of industries such as automotive manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and fabrication. Candidates aspiring in this field require a certain education level, work experience, certification, skills, etc. In this article, read all the careers of a Robotic Welder.
Post Highlights:
- Educational Qualifications
- Course Types
- Certification/License
- Work Experience
- Duties/Responsibilities
- Abilities/Skills
- Work Environment
- Physical Requirements
- Top Industries
- Job Types
- Salary Information
- Benefits/Perks
Educational Qualifications
Typical education level includes-
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Technical or Vocational Training in Welding (a plus)
Course Types
Some common course types include-
- Welding Technology Programs
- Industrial Robotics Programs
- Robotic Welding Courses
- Manufacturer-Specific Training
- Apprenticeships
Certification/License
Some common certification types include-
1. Certified Robotic Operator (CRO) – by the American Welding Society (AWS)
2. Certified Robotic Arc Welding (CRAW) – AWS
3. Certified Robotic Welding Technician (CRWT) – by AWS
4. Manufacturer-Specific Certifications
5. OSHA Certification
6. Other Welding Certifications by AWS-
- Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
- Certified Welding Educator (CWE)
- Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS)
Work Experience
Some general work experience includes-
- Documentation and Reporting Experience
- Programming and Setup Experience
- Quality Control and Inspection Experience
- Robotic Welding Equipment Operating Experience
- Safety Compliance Work Experience
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance Experience
- Welding Techniques and Processes Proficiency
Duties/Responsibilities
Some common job duties include-
- Adhere to safety regulations such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Collaborate with maintenance technicians or engineers
- Conduct routine maintenance tasks on robotic welding equipment
- Conduct visual inspections of welded joints to ensure quality standards
- Document/maintain accurate records of welding activities
- Monitor/control the robotic welding process
- Operate robotic welding equipment to perform welding tasks
- Perform non-destructive testing (NDT) methods
- Program robotic welding systems
- Provide work reports/feedback to supervisors or engineering teams
- Set up/prepare robotic welding equipment for operation
- Stay updated with advancements in robotic welding technologies
- Troubleshoot/resolve the potential technical issues that may arise
- Use measurement tools, such as calipers or gauges
- Perform other tasks as assigned from time to time
Abilities/Skills
Some common abilities include-
- Adaptability to changing work environments
- Ability to perform quality inspections
- Blueprint reading skills
- Effective communication skills
- Familiarity with various welding processes
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of welding techniques and materials
- Strong attention to detail
- Strong organizational skills
- Understanding of blueprints and welding symbols
Work Environment
Some general work conditions include-
- May be exposed to various hazards (heat, spark, gases, fumes)
- May be required to work on different shifts
- May need to work under pressure to meet production deadlines
- Often work as part of a team
- Typically work indoors in manufacturing or fabrication facilities
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
Physical Requirements
Some physical aspects may include-
- Ability to coordinate hand movements with eyes
- May also need to move around the welding area
- May involve lifting and carrying heavy objects
- May need to work in various body positions
- Often need to stand for extended periods
- Possess good manual dexterity
- Tolerance to heat and sparks
Top Industries
Some common work areas include-
- Aerospace Industry
- Automotive Industry
- Construction Industry
- Custom Fabrication Shops
- Heavy Machinery/Equipment Manufacturing
- Manufacturing/Industrial Facilities
- Metal Fabrication shops
- Oil and Gas Industry
- Research/Development Settings
- Shipbuilding/Maritime Industry
Job Types
Some common job types include-
- Robotic Welding Engineer
- Robotic Welding Inspector
- Robotic Welding Operator
- Robotic Welding Programmer
- Robotic Welding Project Manager
- Robotic Welding Technician
- Robotic Welding Sales Representative
Salary Information
Robotic welders do not earn equally at all places in the industry. Factors like education, certification, location, experience, industry, and employer types. The average hourly salary of a Robotic Welder is $31. However, some of the approximate salary figures include.
- Hourly Salary – $27 to $36
- Monthly Salary – $4,320 to $5,760
- Yearly Salary – $51,840 to $69,120
These salary figures are just estimates, actual salaries can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances. Also, robotic welders may earn higher wages in certain industries such as automotive, aerospace, and high-tech manufacturing industries.
Benefits/Perks
Some common benefits and perks include-
- Retirement Plans (401(k) or pension plans)
- Advancement Opportunities
- Bonuses and Incentives
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
- Employee Discounts on products or services
- Flexible Work Arrangements
- Health Insurance (medical, dental, and vision coverage)
- Overtime Pay
- Paid Time Off (vacation days, holidays, and sick leave)
- Safety Equipment and Gear (PPE)
- Training and Development
Summary
The profession of robotic welders is crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and construction. They operate and program robotic welding systems to create high-quality welds consistently and efficiently. These individuals typically need a combination of technical skills for robotic welding. This rewarding career is a good choice for individuals interested in automation, welding, and working with cutting-edge technology. The career offers financial stability, professional growth, and a chance to contribute to manufacturing processes.