Underwater Welder
Introduction
Truly, underwater welder is a globally competitive job and companies around the world need their skills. This is a type of job that cannot be replaced with somebody, who does not possess the same skills. That is why the salary of the underwater welder can vary hugely depending on the scope of the projects, the diving environment, and the depth of the dive. Salaries vary from $15,000 to as high as $ 150,000 a month. It is high enough for an average commercial surface and standards. Many underwater welders can go on to become welding instructors, diving operations manager, or supervisory management positions and consultants.
How to Become an Underwater Welder
While a career as a commercial diver and underwater welder can be rewarding, it is not for everyone. The industry demands total commitment, long hours, extensive travel, a great attitude and superior work ethic. If you’re interested in becoming a commercial diver and underwater welder then it’s important that you be ready for a physically and mentally challenging career.
If you believe becoming an underwater welder is right for you, these are the minimum requirements you will need to possess:
1. High school certificate / SPM
2. Ability to swim
3. Mechanical aptitude
4. Commercial Diving Certification
5. AWS Certified Welding Training (e.g. Weldcraft Pro)
Finding a School
A commercial diver certification requires significantly more training than a standard recreational SCUBA certification. As a certified commercial diver, you are trained to work in industrial environments that frequently involve heavy construction and dangerous working conditions including electrocution and pressure related injuries.
Commercial divers receive the specialized training that allows them to work in a wide variety of environments from inland dams and bridges to offshore pipelines and oil rigs.
In order to become a certified underwater welder, you will need formal underwater welding training from an accredited dive school and pass their program in accordance with the American Welding Society D3.6 standard (e.g. Weldcraft Pro Course)
