WELDING JOB OUTLOOK

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the employment of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is projected to grow 2 percent from 2023 to 2033, slower than the average for all occupations.

Despite limited employment growth, about 45,800 openings for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment

The nation’s aging infrastructure will require the expertise of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers to help rebuild bridges, highways, and buildings. These workers also will be needed in manufacturing plants, such as those that produce metal products and machinery. However, automation in manufacturing may limit overall demand for these workers.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/production/welders-cutters-solderers-and-brazers.htm (visited September 05, 2024).