Welder in Oregon
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OR
How to Become a Welder in Oregon
To become a certified Welder in Oregon, individuals must obtain an Oregon Welder Certification from the Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD), which functions as a state license for structural welding and work on boilers, pressure vessels, or pressure piping. This requires passing a performance qualification test based on codes like AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code or ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX, Part QW. While the application fee is $82.50, the exam cost, typically around $300, is paid to third-party testing facilities. The certification renews every three years, and Oregon accepts national certifications such as the AWS Certified Welder (CW) card.
Welder Requirements in Oregon
| Detail | Oregon |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Oregon Building Codes Division (BCD) |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Must pass a performance qualification test based on AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code or ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX, Part QW. A high school diploma or GED is generally required to enroll in a trade school or apprenticeship program. |
| Exam | Oregon Welder Certification Test (based on AWS D1.1 or ASME Section IX) ($300) |
| Application Fee | $82 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Notes | This certification is required for welders performing structural welding, or welding on boilers, pressure vessels, or pressure piping. The state certifies welders to specific codes (e.g., AWS D1.1, ASME Section IX). Exam costs are paid to third-party testing facilities. Minimum age of 18 is generally required for training programs. Some sources indicate a background check may be required. Oregon accepts pre-approved national certifications like the AWS Certified Welder (CW) card if issued by an AWS Accredited Test Facility. |
Welder Salary in Oregon
The median welder salary in Oregon is $58,590 per year, which is 14.9% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $45,570 |
| 25th | $49,420 |
| 50th (median) | $58,590 |
| 75th | $66,330 |
| 90th (experienced) | $79,230 |
Oregon employs approximately 4,870 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 Oregon Worth It?
Factors to consider: Oregon's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.