Welders are always in demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that welding jobs will increase by 8% between now and 2030. Education and skill development are crucial for taking advantage of these opportunities. This guide details some popular welding schools in Oregon, plus vital info about getting licensed and certified.
What Does a Welder Do?
The art of metallurgy has existed for thousands of years, but its methods and technologies have gradually improved. Modern welders join metal pieces together at high temperatures using sophisticated equipment. They use other critical skills to do their jobs: blueprint reading, equipment maintenance, and measuring components. The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers more details about essential job skills for welders.
Oregon welders can choose from many career opportunities. Engineering, construction, manufacturing, and even insurance companies need welders for repairs and product assembly. To qualify for these jobs, you need education in essential welding knowledge and skills.
Welding Schools Near Me in Oregon
As you discover how to become a welder in Oregon, you should first complete a reputable training program. Fortunately, you have several options from which to choose. While most programs require a high school diploma or GED, you should check with each school before applying.
Portland Community College
Students can pursue welding certificates or associate degrees at three campus locations: Rock Creek, Swan Island, or OMIC at Columbia County. Coursework includes welding techniques, fabrication, sculpting, and blueprint reading.
- Location: Portland, OR
- Phone number: (971) 722-6111
- Programs available: Associate of Applied Science in Welding, plus several Career Pathway welding certificates
- Program duration: 12 months (certificate); 24 months (associate degree)
- Average cost: $2,000 per term for full-time students; does not include equipment
Chemeketa Community College
The school’s welding program teaches basic techniques plus metallurgy, fabrication, equipment setup, and blueprint reading. Students can pursue an associate degree or one of three welding program certificates. Keep in mind that Chemeketa operates on the term system, not semesters.
- Location: Salem, OR
- Phone number: (503) 399-5000
- Programs available: Associate of Applied Science in Welding; welding Career Pathway certificates
- Program duration: 12 months (welding certificate); 24 months (associate degree)
- Average cost: $7,000 (certificate); $12,000 (associate degree)
Southwestern Oregon Community College
SWOCC offers several welding programs, including an associate degree and Career Pathways certificates. Topics include welding methods, fabrication, reading blueprints, and pipe welding.
- Location: Coos Bay, OR
- Phone number: (541) 888-2525
- Programs available: Welding Certificate of Completion; Associate of Applied Science in Welding
- Program duration: 12 months (certificate); 24 months (associate degree)
- Average cost: $6,500 (certificate); $13,000 (associate degree)
Umpqua Community College
Umpqua’s welding program teaches cutting, fabrication, measurement, repairing, and joining processes. Other critical skills include blueprint reading, materials safety, machine setup, and equipment troubleshooting.
- Location: Roseburg, OR
- Phone number: (541) 440-4600
- Programs available: Welding Certificate; Associate of Applied Science in Welding
- Program duration: 12 months (certificate); 24 months (associate degree)
- Average cost: $5,500 per year
Linn-Benton Community College
Linn-Benton Community College offers an associate degree in welding plus two certificates: industrial pipe trades welding and welding/fabrication. Skills learned in the program include mathematics, blueprint reading, equipment repair, and technical writing. Specialized skills such as pipe and arc welding are also included.
- Location: Albany, OR
- Phone number: (541) 917-4999
- Programs available: two welding certificates; Associate of Applied Science in Welding
- Program duration: 12 months (certificate); 24 months (associate degree)
- Average cost: around $6,000 per year (does not include equipment)
Welding Career Opportunities in Oregon
Welding offers a wide range of job opportunities. As you explore welding careers in Oregon, you’ll discover many different employers, job roles, and compensation packages.
How Much Do Welders Make in Oregon?
Indeed mentions that Oregon welders earn an average pay rate of $21.01 per hour. Remember that salaries can vary based on years of experience and credentials. For instance, a welder with 10 years of experience can earn an average of $24.01 per hour. Those with specialized skills can command higher salaries.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the average Oregon welder takes home $49,320 every year. Keep in mind that pay rates can be higher or lower based on location. Indeed reports average pay of $26.52 per hour in Albany. At the lower end of the scale, welders in Eugene take home $18.87 per hour.
Major Employers of Welders in Oregon
If you’re seeking welding careers in Oregon, you’re in luck. The state has a thriving job market in which many possibilities await. Five major employers offer welding job opportunities in Oregon:
- SLS: insurance; welder pay rates average $62.36 per hour
- Bechtel Corporation: engineering and construction; average welder pay rate of $43.83/hour
- Toyota: automobile manufacturing; average welder pay rate of $40.63/hour
- McDermott: engineering and construction; welder pay averages $39.20 per hour
- Zachry Construction Corporation: construction and industrial maintenance; average welder pay rate of $37.96 per hour
How To Become a Certified Welder in Oregon
Welders can become professionally certified through the American Welding Society. You have many certification options from which you can choose. While many professionals start with the AWS Certified Welder Program, you can also become certified in welding inspection, supervision, and engineering. The AWS also offers specialized certifications in resistance welding and robotic arc welding.
With certification comes higher salaries and better job opportunities. It proves that you have critical knowledge and skills in the profession. It also says that you care enough to invest in reaching the highest performance standards. For those reasons, a certified welder is more attractive to potential employers. Positions calling for certified professionals also tend to pay more. You can also more easily qualify for management roles.
Do You Need a License to Be a Welder in Oregon?
The state of Oregon has no specific licensing requirements for welders. However, you may need a license if you work in certain construction activities. You can review general construction contracting licensing guidelines for more information.
Oregon Welding FAQs
You’ve probably got more questions about welding careers in Oregon. You can find the answers you need in the FAQ section below.
1. How Long Does It Take To Become a Welder?
Most candidates can complete a welding certificate program within 12 months. If you want to pursue an associate degree, plan on at least 24 months of study. Welding apprenticeships and internships vary in length and scope. Many welders can find employment within 18 months after they begin their education.
2. Does a Welder Need Insurance in Oregon?
Oregon doesn’t require individual welders to carry insurance. However, contractors must have liability coverage. Even if you’re not self-employed, you may want to purchase insurance for your welding equipment. Check with individual insurers for more details. Get a FREE small business insurance quote below from one of our trusted partners:
3. Who Can I Contact If I Have Questions?
You have many resources you can consult to learn how to become a welder in Oregon. You may want to check out the AWS certification landing page. Your welding instructors may also be available to answer your questions. Don’t forget about trade and union organizations like the Ironworkers Local 29 and the UA Local Union 290.
Welding can be a lucrative career if you have the training and know-how. Completing your education at one of the welding schools in Oregon is a vital first step. Apprenticeships, internships, and professional certifications may open up more job opportunities.
For More License and Career Guides
To find out how to become a Welder in another state, start here.
For information on other trades in Oregon, click on a link below to learn more about the licensing requirements:
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