Welder in Ohio
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OH
How to Become a Welder in Ohio
To become a certified welder in Ohio, individuals typically pursue certifications through the American Welding Society (AWS) or ASME, as Ohio does not require a general state welding license. Aspiring welders must pass a performance qualification test, such as the AWS Certified Welder Performance Test, to demonstrate their skills. While no formal education is mandated, many choose to complete welding training programs offered by vocational schools or apprenticeships. For those working on boilers and pressure vessels, ASME Section IX certification is required.
Welder Requirements in Ohio
| Detail | Ohio |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Industrial Compliance |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | No formal education is required, but welding training programs are available through community colleges, vocational/technical schools, and union apprenticeships. Must pass a performance qualification test. |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder Performance Test (or ASME Section IX for boiler and pressure vessel welding) ($35) |
| Notes | Ohio does not require a general state welding license. Certification is primarily managed through the American Welding Society (AWS) and ASME. ASME Section IX certification is required for welding on boilers and pressure vessels. AWS Certified Welder performance qualifications must be maintained every 6 months through continued welding activity or retesting. Minimum age of 18 is generally required for professional welders. |
Source: Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Industrial Compliance
Welder Salary in Ohio
The median welder salary in Ohio is $49,410 per year, which is 3.1% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,380 |
| 25th | $45,490 |
| 50th (median) | $49,410 |
| 75th | $57,790 |
| 90th (experienced) | $67,500 |
Ohio employs approximately 20,110 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 Ohio Worth It?
With an estimated total investment of $50 and a median salary of $49,410 in Ohio, the rough payback period is approximately 0 months.
Factors to consider: Ohio's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.