They generally plan work from drawings or specifications, or by analyzing damaged metal parts, using their knowledge of welding and metals. They select and set up welding equipment and examine welds to insure they meet standards or specifications. Some welders have more limited duties. They perform routine production work that has already been planned and laid out. These jobs do not require knowledge of all welding techniques.
Cutters dismantle large objects, such as ships, railroad cars, automobiles or aircraft.
Some operate and monitor cutting machines similar to those used by welding machine operators. In this process, a machine performs the welding tasks while monitored by a welding machine operator . Welding machine operators set up and operate welding machines as specified by layouts, work orders, or blueprints. Operators must constantly monitor the machine to ensure that it produces the desired weld. They wear protective clothing, safety shoes, goggles, hoods with protective lenses, and other devices to prevent burns and eye injuries, and to protect them from falling objects.