Welder in Indiana
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for IN
How to Become a Welder in Indiana
To become a welder in Indiana, individuals typically pursue certification through the American Welding Society (AWS), as there is no statewide licensing requirement. The primary certification is the AWS Certified Welder (CW), which requires passing a hands-on performance test at an AWS-Accredited Test Facility. While no specific education is mandated for AWS certification, completing a welding certificate program (typically 6-12 months) or an apprenticeship (2-4 years) is highly recommended to gain the necessary skills and prepare for the exam. For structural steel welding on public works projects in Indiana, AWS certification is legally required.
Welder Requirements in Indiana
| Detail | Indiana |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) for certification; Indiana does not have a statewide licensing body for welders. |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Not specified for AWS certification, but training programs are highly recommended and often lead to certification. |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance test ($500) |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 80.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Indiana does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. However, certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers, especially for high-paying jobs and for structural steel welding on public works projects. Some training programs may have a minimum age of 18 and require a high school diploma or GED. |
Welder Salary in Indiana
The median welder salary in Indiana is $48,460 per year, which is 5.0% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $37,690 |
| 25th | $43,300 |
| 50th (median) | $48,460 |
| 75th | $59,100 |
| 90th (experienced) | $70,470 |
Indiana employs approximately 13,260 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 Indiana Worth It?
Factors to consider: Indiana's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.