Welder in Massachusetts
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MA. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Massachusetts.
Jobs (MA)
10-yr job growth
route How to become a welder in Massachusetts
While Massachusetts does not have a statewide licensing requirement for general welders, specific welding roles do require official credentials. Welders working on pipefitting or sprinkler systems must obtain a license from the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. For those involved in MassDOT projects, certification from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation is mandatory. Additionally, many employers consider AWS certification to be an industry standard.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Massachusetts. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Massachusetts requirements
| Licensing body | Massachusetts Department of Transportation (for MassDOT projects); Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters (for pipefitting and sprinkler systems) |
| State license | Not required |
| Notes | Massachusetts does not have a statewide licensing requirement for general welders. However, welders working on pipefitting or sprinkler systems require a license from the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Welders working on MassDOT projects need MassDOT certification. AWS certification is an industry standard and may be required by employers. Minimum age for pipefitter and sprinkler fitter licenses is 18 years old. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk