Welder in Vermont
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for VT
How to Become a Welder in Vermont
Vermont does not require a state license for welders; however, industry certifications, particularly through the American Welding Society (AWS), are the industry standard and often expected by employers. To become a certified welder, individuals typically need to complete an approved training program and successfully pass the AWS Welding Certification Test. While there is no state licensing body, the Vermont Agency of Transportation maintains a pre-qualified welder list for specific projects, which requires current AWS certification and a welding log.
Welder Requirements in Vermont
| Detail | Vermont |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Vermont does not have a statewide licensing body for welders. |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | Completion of an approved training program is mandated for qualification, typically lasting 6 months to 2 years through community colleges, vocational schools, or apprenticeships. |
| Exam | AWS Welding Certification Test ($35) |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Notes | Vermont does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders; however, certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers. For specific projects, such as those with the Vermont Agency of Transportation, welders may need to be on a pre-qualified list, which requires submitting AWS certification or qualification test results and a welding log showing continuous activity every 6 months. OSHA 10/30-hour training may also be required by employers. The state mandates a clean criminal background check. |
Source: Vermont does not have a statewide licensing body for welders.
Welder Salary in Vermont
The median welder salary in Vermont is $57,520 per year, which is 12.8% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $40,060 |
| 25th | $47,540 |
| 50th (median) | $57,520 |
| 75th | $63,200 |
| 90th (experienced) | $71,660 |
Vermont employs approximately 340 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 Vermont Worth It?
Factors to consider: Vermont's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.