Welder in Maine
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for ME
How to Become a Welder in Maine
To become a welder in Maine, a state license is not required. Instead, industry-recognized certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS) are the standard, with ASME Section IX certification necessary for pressure vessel welding. Aspiring welders typically complete vocational training programs, which can range from six months to two years, and then pass performance-based certification exams. Welders must be at least 18 years old, and AWS certifications require ongoing maintenance through continued welding activity or retesting every six months.
Welder Requirements in Maine
| Detail | Maine |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED recommended; vocational training highly recommended |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance test, ASME Section IX (for pressure vessels) ($35) |
| Notes | Maine does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard. ASME Section IX certification is required nationwide for welding on boilers and pressure vessels. Welders must be at least 18 years old. AWS Certified Welder (CW) performance tests must be maintained every 6 months through continued welding activity or retesting. OSHA 10/30-hour training may be required by employers. |
Source: American Welding Society (AWS) and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Welder Salary in Maine
The median welder salary in Maine is $58,340 per year, which is 14.4% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $43,400 |
| 25th | $48,250 |
| 50th (median) | $58,340 |
| 75th | $65,090 |
| 90th (experienced) | $73,830 |
Maine employs approximately 1,950 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 Maine Worth It?
Factors to consider: Maine's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.