Welder in Arkansas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AR
How to Become a Welder in Arkansas
To become a welder in Arkansas, a general state license is not required. However, most employers will require industry-recognized certifications, primarily through the American Welding Society (AWS). For welders working on boilers and pressure vessels, qualification to ASME Section IX is mandatory and overseen by the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing, Boiler Inspection Division. While formal education isn't strictly mandated, completing a welding training program at a technical school or community college is highly recommended to gain the necessary skills and prepare for certification exams.
Welder Requirements in Arkansas
| Detail | Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing, Boiler Inspection Division |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED; formal welding training recommended. |
| Exam | ASME Section IX Welder Qualification Test (for boilers/pressure vessels); AWS certifications are industry standard for other welding. ($35) |
| Notes | Arkansas does not require a general state welding license. Certification is primarily employer-driven and often involves AWS (American Welding Society) certifications. Welders performing work on boilers and pressure vessels in Arkansas must be qualified to ASME Section IX. Companies performing welded repairs on boilers/pressure vessels for others must hold a National Board 'R' stamp or have their Quality Control Manual, Weld Procedures Specifications, Welder Qualification Records, and supporting Procedure Qualification Records on file with the Boiler Inspection Division. There is no minimum age specified for welder certification, but a high school diploma or GED is typically required for training programs. |
Source: Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing, Boiler Inspection Division
Welder Salary in Arkansas
The median welder salary in Arkansas is $47,100 per year, which is 7.6% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $36,340 |
| 25th | $41,530 |
| 50th (median) | $47,100 |
| 75th | $52,400 |
| 90th (experienced) | $63,570 |
Arkansas employs approximately 7,240 welders.
Welder Job Outlook
AI Impact on Welders
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.20/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Welder in Arkansas Worth It?
With an estimated total investment of $180 and a median salary of $47,100 in Arkansas, the rough payback period is approximately 0 months.
Factors to consider: Arkansas's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.