Starting a welding career in Phoenix, AZ, offers professionals an opportunity to enter a field with strong job availability, competitive salaries ($21.26-$25.89 hourly), and rapid training programs (as short as 7 months) 12. Unlike plumbing, Phoenix welders don't require a formal license but will find AWS certification significantly increases job prospects 3. With 437+ welding jobs currently available on major platforms and several local training options, Phoenix remains a strong market for skilled welders. Whether you're finishing high school or transitioning careers, understanding the education pathways, certification importance, and local job landscape will help you succeed in this essential trade.
Before diving into the steps to become a welder, it's essential to understand the profession. Welders are skilled tradespeople who use specialized equipment to join metal parts through high-heat processes. Their expertise is crucial in construction, manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries. In Phoenix, welders may work on infrastructure projects, semiconductor manufacturing, structural steel, or specialized aerospace components.
No, welders in Phoenix, AZ do not require a state license to work. However, certification is highly valued in this industry. The American Welding Society (AWS) certification is the most recognized credential for welders seeking better job prospects and potentially higher wages 3. Some specialized roles, particularly those working with licensed contractors, may require passing a trade exam, but this is separate from formal licensing 3.
Although not mandatory, attending a vocational or technical school is the most efficient way to gain the skills needed for a welding career. Several local institutions offer comprehensive programs tailored for rapid workforce entry:
1. Refrigeration School, Inc. (RSI):
2. Universal Technical Institute (UTI):
3. GateWay Community College:
4. Vern Lewis Welding Supply Training Centers:
These programs provide technical skill development, safety training, blueprint reading, and real-world practice to prepare graduates for their first welding jobs. Many include AWS certification exam preparation to help students qualify for better-paying positions 14.
If you're interested in welding apprenticeship roles in Phoenix, consider exploring platforms like Gild that aggregate trade job opportunities in the area.
While Phoenix does not require welders to pass a licensing exam, AWS (American Welding Society) certification is widely recognized by employers across multiple industries. Having this certification can open doors to jobs in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and high-specification welding roles that offer higher wages and better benefits 3.
Many local training programs, including RSI and UTI, incorporate AWS certification preparation into their curriculums. The certification focuses on specific welding processes and materials, allowing welders to specialize in areas like:
Some high-demand roles, particularly in aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing, require TIG welding certification and experience with 6G positional welding, which these programs prepare students for 6.
Modern welders need a blend of technical expertise, safety knowledge, and professional skills to succeed in today’s job market. Essential skills for welders include:
Developing these competencies through formal training helps ensure both job readiness and long-term career growth in Phoenix’s evolving manufacturing and construction sectors.
To pursue a career in welding in Phoenix, you should meet these baseline criteria:
As mentioned earlier, completing a welding program helps you gain essential technical instruction and prepares you for industry certifications. Training programs typically last between 7 months at institutions like RSI to 9 months at UTI, and often provide hands-on experience to build your skillset quickly.
You can explore welding jobs in Phoenix on platforms such as Gild, which list employment opportunities from multiple employers in the region across various industries.
Once you complete training, applying for AWS certification can distinguish you from other entry-level candidates and open doors to better-paying opportunities. Many industries, including aerospace and manufacturing, specifically seek out AWS-certified welders, particularly those with experience in TIG welding or 6G positions 6.
The AWS certification process tests your ability to complete welds to exacting standards and is typically administered by certified inspection agencies or training schools. Some programs include the exam fee in their training costs, making it easier to earn the credential while finishing your program 3.
With your training and certification complete, applying for welding jobs in Phoenix becomes the next step. Entry-level roles can include:
You'll often find these listings on job boards like Indeed or ZipRecruiter, with dozens of openings available at any given time.
For continued career advancement, consider specializing in in-demand welding techniques such as:
Additional courses offered by training centers such as Vern Lewis Welding Supply or continuing education at community colleges like Mesa Community College can provide advanced training and open opportunities in supervisory, inspection, or contracting roles 6.
As of 2025, the welding job market in Phoenix remains strong. According to Indeed, the average hourly wage for welders in Phoenix is $25.89, while ZipRecruiter reports $21.26 12. CareerBuilder and local job boards indicate over 437 open positions, reflecting a consistent demand for skilled welders across industries such as manufacturing, construction, and aerospace 2.
With experience, AWS certification, and specialized skills, senior positions in Phoenix can command $33 to $35 hourly, particularly in sectors like aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing 5. Given the local infrastructure and industrial growth, the demand for welders is expected to remain steady through 2025 and beyond.
| Step | Estimated Timeline | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Complete welding training program | 7-9 months | Programs at RSI or UTI with hands-on experience and certification prep 14 |
| Obtain AWS Certification | Several weeks after training | Often included within training programs or offered separately 3 |
| Apply for entry-level welding jobs | Immediately after certification | Look on platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter 25 |
| Specialize in a niche (e.g., TIG welding) | 1–2 years of experience recommended | Adds higher value and opens advanced positions 6 |
Starting a career as a welder in Phoenix offers strong short-term training options, occupational stability, and the opportunity to work in growing industries such as aerospace, semiconductors, and infrastructure. With multiple local education programs, competitive wages, and a strong job market, Phoenix continues to be an attractive location for aspiring welders aiming to build long-term trades careers.
Begin by researching educational programs at Refrigeration School, UTI, or GateWay Community College, and explore open skill bridging roles through platforms like Gild to start your journey into this in-demand trade profession today!
https://www.indeed.com/q-welder-l-phoenix,-az-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6
https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Welder/-in-Phoenix,AZ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.rsi.edu/blog/skilled-trades/welder-certification-in-arizona-5-frequently-asked-questions-about-licensing/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7
https://swscale.com/about/careers/arizona-welder-fabricator/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.careerbuilder.com/jobs-welder-in-phoenix,az ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
https://myvocationaltrainingaz.com/blog/the-future-of-the-welding-industry/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
