Welder in Pennsylvania
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for PA
How to Become a Welder in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, there is no statewide licensing requirement for welders. However, industry certification, primarily through the American Welding Society (AWS), is the recognized standard and often a prerequisite for employment. For those working with boilers and pressure vessels, ASME Section IX certification is required. Aspiring welders typically complete a welding training program or apprenticeship, then pass a performance-based certification test at an AWS Accredited Test Facility.
Welder Requirements in Pennsylvania
| Detail | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) or ASME for pressure vessels |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED recommended; formal welding program or apprenticeship highly recommended. |
| Exam | AWS Certified Welder (CW) or other specialized AWS/ASME certifications ($35) |
| Notes | Pennsylvania does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers. For boiler and pressure vessel welders, ASME Section IX certification is required. Welder performance qualifications must be maintained through continued welding activity every 6 months. AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification requires 80 Professional Development Hours (PDHs) per 3-year cycle for renewal. |
Source: American Welding Society (AWS) or ASME for pressure vessels
Welder Salary in Pennsylvania
The median welder salary in Pennsylvania is $50,860 per year, which is 0.3% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $38,620 |
| 25th | $46,680 |
| 50th (median) | $50,860 |
| 75th | $58,920 |
| 90th (experienced) | $67,010 |
Pennsylvania employs approximately 16,060 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 Pennsylvania Worth It?
Factors to consider: Pennsylvania's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.