If you're looking to jumpstart a career in welding in Columbus, OH, the first step is to enroll in a training program at institutions like Columbus State Community College or Terra State Community College. These programs offer certificate courses such as the Intermediate Welder Certificate and the Intermediate Pipe II Welder Certificate, which provide the foundational skills needed for entry-level and advanced welding roles 12. With the average hourly wage for welders in Columbus ranging from $21.50 to $23.28 34, and 84 automated welder jobs listed across Ohio 5, the welding trade offers competitive salaries and growing opportunities in automation and robotics. By 2025, the U.S. welding industry is projected to need over 320,000 new welding professionals to address anticipated openings from retirements and job growth 6, making it an ideal time to enter the field. For more job listings, check out Indeed for robotic welding jobs.
Before diving into the steps, it's essential to understand what being a welder entails. Welders are skilled professionals who join metal parts using various techniques such as MIG, TIG, flux core, and submerged arc welding. They work in industries like manufacturing, construction, and automotive, and may also be involved in repairing and maintaining structures, pipelines, and machinery. In Columbus, companies like METTLER TOLEDO METTLER TOLEDO Jobs require welders to have proficiency in blueprint reading, equipment operation, and quality inspections 6. For additional insights on welding roles, visit Welding Workforce Data.
While Ohio does not require a state-level license for welders, obtaining certifications is crucial for career advancement. The American Welding Society (AWS) offers certifications such as Certified Welder (SMAW) AWS Certifications, which are recognized in Ohio's manufacturing sector 7. Additionally, Owens Community College, an AWS Accredited Test Facility, provides certification testing for welders 8. Employers in Columbus often prefer candidates with AWS certifications, as they demonstrate expertise in specific welding processes and adherence to industry standards. Learn more about welding certifications at ZipRecruiter for salaries.
To begin your welding career in Columbus, you can enroll in programs at institutions like Columbus State Community College, which offers Associate Degrees in Welding and certificates for various skill levels 5. EWI (Edison Welding Institute) EWI Training also provides specialized training, including the Fundamentals of Welding Engineering Course, which covers welding processes, metallurgy, and code compliance 3. These programs typically include hands-on training in MIG, TIG, shielded metal arc, and oxy-acetylene welding, as well as the use of equipment like plasma cutters 6. To find a welding program: * Use Gild to find welding jobs and training opportunities in Columbus: Gild connects job seekers with local welding positions and apprenticeships. * Explore local trade schools and community colleges: Institutions like Columbus State Community College offer comprehensive welding programs. For more resources, check Earlbeck's Welding Outlook.
To become a welder in Columbus, you must meet specific basic requirements:
Completing a welding education program is highly recommended to gain the foundational skills needed for the trade. These programs are offered by trade schools, community colleges, and technical institutes in Columbus and usually cover topics like:
Hands-on experience is crucial for developing your welding skills. Many training programs include apprenticeships or internships where you can work under the supervision of experienced welders. This experience allows you to apply what you've learned in real-world settings and build a portfolio of work. For apprenticeship opportunities, explore Gild's job feed.
After completing your training, obtaining certifications is essential for career advancement. The AWS Certified Welder (SMAW) certification is widely recognized in Ohio and demonstrates your proficiency in specific welding processes 7. Additionally, certifications like OSHA-10 and aerial lift or forklift certifications can increase your versatility and job prospects 6. Visit Welding Workforce Data for more certification details.
With the increasing use of automation and robotic welding, welders in Columbus can benefit from specializing in these areas. Companies like Path Robotics are developing AW-3 Welding Robots, which can reduce the need for manual labor in hazardous conditions 6. By 2025, there are expected to be 28 robotic welding jobs available in Columbus, indicating a growing demand for specialized roles in this area 3. For the latest on automation, check out Fabtech Expo Blog.
Welders in Columbus, OH, are well-compensated compared to many entry-level trades, with salaries varying based on experience, certifications, and specific job roles. Here is a summary of the average salaries for welders and other trade careers in Columbus:
| Trade Career | Average Salary in Columbus, OH (2025) |
|---|---|
| Welder (Hourly) | $21.50 - $23.28 34 |
| Welder I (Annual) | $44,149 (Range: $40,880 - $48,237) 56 |
| Electricians (General Range) | $50,000 - $90,000 (Note: Specific data not provided for Columbus) |
| Other Trades (General Range) | $35,000 - $80,000 (Varies by trade and experience) |
While welders in Columbus may earn slightly less than some other trades, the demand for skilled welders is expected to grow, particularly in automation and robotics. The American Welding Society projects that about 80,000 welding jobs will need to be filled annually between 2025 and 2029 to address anticipated openings from retirements and job growth, totaling over 320,000 new welding professionals required by 2029 across the U.S. 69. For detailed salary data, refer to ZipRecruiter.
Starting a career as a welder in Columbus, OH, is an exciting opportunity to enter a field that is essential and well-paid. Whether you're just finishing high school or considering a career change, following these steps will set you on the path to success in this critical industry. As you gain experience and build your credentials, the opportunities in welding will only continue to grow. Good luck on your journey and be sure to check out Gild for welding jobs and training opportunities near you! Explore more resources at Welding Workforce Data.
https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/51-4122.00?st=OH ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://ohiolmi.com/_docs/PROJ/Ohio/Ohio_Job_Outlook_2018-2028.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3
https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-s-Graduation-Requirements/Contacts-and-Resources/Industry-Recognized-Credentials/Industry-Recognized-Credentials-by-Career-Field/Manufacturing ↩ ↩2
https://www.earlbeck.com/welding-101-blog/2025-welding-career-outlook ↩
