Welders work for construction ironwork contractors and machinery, pipeline and transportation equipment companies. They build, install and repair products made of metal. As a sheet metal worker or welder you may work outside in all kinds of weather.
Construction projects can be in remote areas.
Work may be at heights or in cramped and awkward positions and the conditions can be hazardous. You may need to supply your own equipment. You will usually work regular hours for 20 to 40 hours, six days per week. For welders there is a high rate of unemployment over the winter due to the cyclical and seasonal nature of the construction industry. In 1995, all workers in the Cowichan region were men, and their average age was 42.