Career Development Grid

Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are responsible for setting up and operating machines that weld, solder, or braze metal parts. These workers typically work in manufacturing or construction industries, and their job duties include:
– Setting up machines and selecting the appropriate welding, soldering, or brazing process
– Loading metal parts into the machine and ensuring they are properly aligned
– Starting and monitoring the machine during the welding, soldering, or brazing process
– Inspecting finished products to ensure they meet quality standards
– Maintaining and repairing machines as needed
To embark on a career in welding, soldering, and brazing, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a vocational or technical training program in welding or a related field. These programs can be found at community colleges, trade schools, and vocational schools.
In Nigeria, there are many vocational and technical schools that offer welding and related courses. After completing a training program, it is important to gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions.
The earning potential for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders varies depending on experience, location, and industry. In Nigeria, the average salary for a welder is around ₦120,000 per month. However, with experience and additional certifications, welders can earn significantly more.
There are opportunities for career advancement in welding, soldering, and brazing. Experienced workers can become supervisors or managers, or they can specialize in a specific type of welding, such as underwater welding or robotic welding.
One of the biggest challenges facing people in this career is the risk of injury. Welders are exposed to high heat, sparks, and fumes, and they must wear protective gear to minimize the risk of burns, eye damage, and respiratory problems. To overcome these challenges, it is important to receive proper training and follow safety guidelines.
To gain experience and build a network in welding, soldering, and brazing, it is important to seek out apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level positions. Joining professional organizations, such as the American Welding Society, can also provide networking opportunities and access to training and certification programs.
The job prospects for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are expected to remain steady in the coming years.

To become a Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. However, some employers may prefer or require vocational training or an associate’s degree in welding technology or a related field.
On-the-job training is also common, and many workers in this field gain experience through apprenticeships or other forms of supervised training. Certification is not always required, but may be preferred by some employers or required by certain industries.
In addition to formal education and training, Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders should have good hand-eye coordination, physical dexterity, and the ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics. They should also be familiar with various welding techniques, safety procedures, and equipment maintenance.

Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are responsible for operating and maintaining various types of welding, soldering, and brazing machines. Their job duties and responsibilities can vary depending on the specific type of machine they are operating, but generally include:
1. Reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and other technical documents to determine the correct settings and procedures for operating the machine.
2. Setting up and adjusting the machine according to the specifications of the job, which may involve selecting the appropriate welding or brazing method, adjusting the speed and temperature of the machine, and positioning the materials to be joined.
3. Operating the machine to join metal parts together using various welding, soldering, or brazing techniques, such as arc welding, gas welding, resistance welding, or laser welding.
4. Monitoring the machine during the welding or brazing process to ensure that it is operating correctly, and making adjustments as needed to maintain the quality of the weld or braze.
5. Inspecting the finished product to ensure that it meets the required specifications for strength, durability, and appearance.
6. Maintaining the machine by cleaning and lubricating it regularly, replacing worn or damaged parts, and performing routine maintenance tasks.
7. Troubleshooting problems with the machine or the welding/brazing process, and making repairs or adjustments as needed.
8. Following all safety procedures and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment for themselves and their coworkers.
Overall, Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders play a critical role in the manufacturing and construction industries by joining metal parts together to create everything from cars and airplanes to buildings and bridges.

The earning potential for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders can vary depending on the level of experience, location, and industry.
In the short term, entry-level positions may earn around $12-$15 per hour. However, with experience and additional skills, the hourly wage can increase to $20-$30 per hour.
In the long term, experienced welders and operators can earn an average annual salary of $40,000-$50,000. Those who advance to supervisory roles or start their own welding businesses can earn even higher salaries.
It is important to note that the earning potential can also vary based on the industry in which the individual is employed. For example, welders in the construction industry may earn less than those in the manufacturing industry.

The opportunities for career advancement in the field of welding, soldering, and brazing machine setting, operating, and tending are quite good. With experience and additional training, individuals in this field can advance to higher-paying positions such as welding supervisors, welding inspectors, or welding engineers. They can also specialize in a particular type of welding, such as TIG or MIG, or move into related fields such as metal fabrication or engineering. Additionally, some individuals may choose to start their own welding businesses and become self-employed. Overall, there are many opportunities for career growth and advancement in the field of welding, soldering, and brazing machine setting, operating, and tending.

The biggest challenges facing people in the Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders career include:
1. Safety concerns: Welding, soldering, and brazing involve the use of high heat and dangerous equipment, which can pose a risk of injury or even death. Operators must be aware of the safety protocols and follow them strictly to avoid accidents.
2. Physical demands: The job requires standing for long periods, working in awkward positions, and handling heavy equipment. This can lead to fatigue, back pain, and other physical strains.
3. Technical skills: Operating welding, soldering, and brazing machines requires a high level of technical skill and knowledge. Operators must be able to read blueprints, understand welding symbols, and have a thorough understanding of welding techniques.
4. Environmental conditions: Welding, soldering, and brazing can produce fumes, smoke, and other hazardous substances. Operators must work in well-ventilated areas and wear protective gear to avoid exposure to harmful substances.
To overcome these challenges, individuals interested in pursuing a career in welding, soldering, and brazing should:
1. Get proper training: Attend a vocational school or community college to learn the technical skills required for the job. Obtain certifications from recognized organizations to demonstrate proficiency.
2. Follow safety protocols: Always wear protective gear, follow safety guidelines, and be aware of potential hazards.
3. Maintain physical fitness: Engage in regular exercise and stretching to maintain physical fitness and prevent injury.
4. Stay up-to-date with industry trends: Attend seminars, read industry publications, and network with other professionals to stay current with the latest technology and techniques.
5. Seek mentorship: Find an experienced welder, solderer, or brazer who can provide guidance and advice on how to succeed in the field.

Here are some ways to gain experience and build a network in the field of Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders:
1. Apprenticeships: Many welding and soldering programs offer apprenticeships that allow you to learn on the job while earning a wage. These programs can last anywhere from six months to several years, depending on the level of training required.
2. Vocational training: You can also gain experience by enrolling in a vocational school or community college that offers welding or soldering programs. These programs typically provide hands-on training and may offer opportunities to work with local businesses.
3. Internships: Look for internships at local welding or soldering companies. These opportunities can provide valuable experience and help you build a network of industry contacts.
4. Networking: Attend industry events and conferences to meet other professionals in the field. Joining professional organizations, such as the American Welding Society or the International Association of Brazing and Soldering, can also help you make connections and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
5. Online resources: There are many online forums and communities where welders and solderers can connect and share information. Joining these groups can help you learn from others in the field and build your network.

The job prospects for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are currently good, with a steady demand for workers in this field. Welding, soldering, and brazing are essential processes in the manufacturing and construction industries, and these skills are in high demand.
However, the future job prospects for this career may be affected by advancements in automation and robotics. As technology continues to advance, some of the tasks performed by Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders may become automated, leading to a decrease in the number of jobs available.
To remain competitive in this field, it is important for workers to stay up to date with the latest technological advancements and to continue developing their skills. Workers who are able to adapt to new technologies and processes will have the best job prospects in the future.

The most important skills and qualities for someone to succeed as a Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setter, Operator, or Tender include:
1. Attention to detail: Welding, soldering, and brazing require precision and accuracy. A successful operator must be able to pay attention to small details and ensure that their work meets the required standards.
2. Technical knowledge: Welding, soldering, and brazing machine operators must have a thorough understanding of the machines they operate, as well as the materials they work with. They must also be familiar with safety procedures and regulations.
3. Physical stamina: This job requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and working in uncomfortable positions. Operators must have the physical stamina to perform these tasks without getting tired or injured.
4. Hand-eye coordination: Welding, soldering, and brazing require excellent hand-eye coordination to ensure that the work is done accurately and precisely.
5. Problem-solving skills: Machine operators must be able to identify and solve problems that arise during the welding, soldering, or brazing process.
6. Communication skills: Welding, soldering, and brazing machine operators must be able to communicate effectively with other team members to ensure that the work is done efficiently and safely.
7. Time management: Operators must be able to manage their time effectively to ensure that they meet production deadlines and complete tasks within the allotted time frame.

The welding, soldering, and brazing industry is in demand across a variety of sectors and industries, including:
1. Manufacturing: Welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders are in demand in the manufacturing industry, where they are responsible for joining metal parts and components together to create various products.
2. Construction: The construction industry also requires welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders to join metal components together to create structures like buildings, bridges, and roads.
3. Automotive: In the automotive industry, welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders are needed to produce and repair vehicles.
4. Aerospace: The aerospace industry requires skilled welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders to create and repair aircraft parts and components.
5. Shipbuilding: Welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders are also needed in the shipbuilding industry to join metal components together to create ships and boats.
6. Oil and gas: The oil and gas industry requires welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders to construct and maintain pipelines, oil rigs, and other equipment.
Overall, the demand for welding, soldering, and brazing machine setters, operators, and tenders is high in any industry that requires the joining of metal components.

Misconception: Welding, soldering, and brazing jobs are dirty and dangerous, and only men can do them.
Reality: While these jobs can be physically demanding and require safety precautions, they are not necessarily dirty or dangerous. Welding, soldering, and brazing jobs require skilled operators who can work with precision and attention to detail. Women can also excel in these jobs, and many companies actively seek a diverse workforce.
Misconception: Welding, soldering, and brazing jobs are low-paying and dead-end.
Reality: Welding, soldering, and brazing jobs can be lucrative and offer opportunities for advancement. Skilled workers can earn a good income, and many companies offer training programs and career paths that lead to supervisory or management roles.
Misconception: Welding, soldering, and brazing jobs are becoming obsolete due to automation and outsourcing.
Reality: While some aspects of welding, soldering, and brazing may be automated, skilled operators are still in demand. Many companies prefer to have workers who can troubleshoot and make adjustments to machines, and outsourcing is not always a viable option for these jobs. Additionally, the demand for welding, soldering, and brazing is expected to grow in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation.