What do I need to become an underwater welder?

If you believe becoming an underwater welder is right for you, these are the minimum requirements you will need to possess:

1. High school Diploma or GED.
2. Ability to swim.
3. Mechanical aptitude.
4. Commercial Diving Certification.
5. AWS Certified Welding Training.

How much does an underwater welder make in a year?

According to commercial divers and global statistics, the average underwater welding salary is $53,990 annually and $25.96 per hour. However, most incomes float around $25,000 – $80,000. Diver welders in the top 10% make $83,730 while the bottom 10% pull in $30,700.

How much does an underwater welder make a hour?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, commercial divers and underwater welders have a mean (average) hourly wage of $26.32, while the mean annual wage is approximately $54,750. Additionally, the top percentile (90%) can make approximately $93,910 or more.

How many years does it take to become an underwater welder?

The course content and length of underwater welding programs can vary greatly, but most consist of both traditional study and hands-on training in wet welding skills, and may range from 6 months to 2 years.

What is the life expectancy of an underwater welder?

As we saw, the TDA study yields 10-15 years of life in the commercial diving occupation. But in the end, an underwater welder’s life expectancy doesn’t solely depend on one factor. The two most important variables of keeping welder-divers safe include proper training and company safety regulations.

Does underwater welding take years off your life?

Do all welders go blind?

Yes, they completely prevent eye damage as long as the person always has it in place, over their eyes when welding or watching an arc weld. Thousands of welders have worked forty years welding 8 hours a day without eye damage. Any damage comes from exposure to the arc light without the helmet on.