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
FabricatorMachine OperatorMig WelderSpot 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
| 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
LinuxMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordSAP software
Technology Skills
Email softwareEnterprise resource planning ERP softwareMicrosoft operating systemSpreadsheet softwareTool center point TCP setting softwareWord processing software
Tools & Equipment
Adjustable widemouth pliersArc welding equipmentBall peen hammersBench visesBrazing machinesBrazing robotsC clampsCenter punches