Welder Job Requirements
Welding professionals in the oil and gas industry work at least 40 hours a week in workshops, job sites, and onshore and offshore drilling rigs, and are typically required to put in overtime. Due to the hazardous nature of welding, safety training and supervision are required before a welder can work independently in the field. The safety of the rig and crew can be dependent on the strength of a weld, and welds in the oilfield are subject to corrosion, extreme stress, and specific weight regulations. As a result, oil and gas must be experienced, efficient, have solid welding skills, and be trained in specialty welding techniques, such as brazing and hard facing.
Companies involved in deep-sea oil and gas development employ underwater welders, who must be certified both as a welder and as a commercial diver.