The worker whose knowledge and skills keep pace with new development in metals, equipment, and processes will always be in demand. However, there will continue to be more semiskilled workers than the number of jobs available. Advancement Routes to advancement vary with the employer, location and type of work. Some welders who have the necessary capital open job shops of their own. Welders and cutters with the required experience and training may advance to inspector or may become welding instructors.
Some welders belong to more than one union, which increases their job referral possibilities.
Often, employers use a pre-employment screening process. Many different unions represent Welders and Cutters. Among these are the International Association of Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron Workers, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Iron Ship Builders and the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry. Some unions, apprenticeship training programs and vocational schools give job-hunting instruction as part of formal training programs. For current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank .