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.
SOC: 51-4122.00
Common Job Titles
Fabricator
Machine Operator
Mig Welder
Spot Welder
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
