Welder in South Dakota
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for SD
How to Become a Welder in South Dakota
To become a welder in South Dakota, individuals are not required to hold a state-issued license. The industry standard is certification through the American Welding Society (AWS). Aspiring welders should complete an educational program in welding from a vocational or technical school and then obtain relevant AWS certifications by passing written and practical exams. Welders must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license, with some specialized roles requiring additional specific AWS certifications.
Welder Requirements in South Dakota
| Detail | South Dakota |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | American Welding Society (AWS) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED is beneficial; formal welding training or certification from a vocational or technical school highly recommended. |
| Notes | South Dakota does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard. Welders must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license. Some specific welding jobs, such as those for the South Dakota Department of Transportation or certain structural welding, may require specific AWS certifications. |
Source: American Welding Society (AWS)
Welder Salary in South Dakota
The median welder salary in South Dakota is $48,340 per year, which is 5.2% below the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $36,960 |
| 25th | $42,340 |
| 50th (median) | $48,340 |
| 75th | $56,070 |
| 90th (experienced) | $61,330 |
South Dakota employs approximately 3,480 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 South Dakota Worth It?
Factors to consider: South Dakota's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.