Welder in Utah

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for UT. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$56,050
trending_up +9.9% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Utah.

engineering
4,230

Jobs (UT)

monitoring Stable
+2.2%

10-yr job growth

payments
$550

Licensing fees

schedule
1-2 years for education program, plus certification time

Time to complete

route How to become a welder in Utah

In Utah, individual welders are not required to hold a state license. However, obtaining an industry-recognized certification, such as the AWS Welding Certification, is highly recommended and often a prerequisite for employment. To become a certified welder, individuals typically complete an approved welding training program, which can take 1-2 years, and then pass the AWS Welding Certification Test. While the state does not license individual welders, welding contractors must be licensed by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $39,820
25th percentile $47,530
50th (median) $56,050
75th percentile $64,780
90th (experienced) $78,300

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Utah. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Utah requirements

Licensing bodyUtah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)
State license Not required
EducationCompletion of an approved welding training program (vocational, technical, or apprenticeship)
ExamAWS Welding Certification Test (industry standard) ($350)
Application fee$200
RenewalEvery 3.0 years
NotesUtah does not license individual welders. A welding contractor must be licensed by DOPL. Individual welders typically obtain AWS certification, which is an industry standard and often required by employers. A comprehensive background check and proof of identity are required for certification. Minimum age is not specified, but typically aligns with vocational program entry requirements.

Source: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+2.2%
Average
Annual openings
45,600
Nationwide per year
Total employment
457,300
Nationwide
neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -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.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

  • infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
  • check_circleLow AI disruption risk
psychology
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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a welder in Utah? expand_more
In Utah, becoming a welder requires you to complete the required education (Completion of an approved welding training program (vocational, technical, or apprenticeship)), pass the AWS Welding Certification Test (industry standard), and submit your application ($200 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a welder in Utah? expand_more
No state license is needed to work as a welder in Utah. Note: Utah does not license individual welders. A welding contractor must be licensed by DOPL. Individual welders typically obtain AWS certification, which is an industry standard and often required by employers. A comprehensive background check and proof of identity are required for certification. Minimum age is not specified, but typically aligns with vocational program entry requirements.
How much does a welder make in Utah? expand_more
Utah welders bring home a median salary of $56,050. This exceeds the $51,000 national median by 10%. New welders start around $39,820; seasoned professionals can reach $78,300.
What are the fees to become a welder in Utah? expand_more
Costs include exam fee ($350) and application fee ($200). The estimated total investment is varies, including education and training.
What's the timeline to become a welder in Utah? expand_more
Most candidates in Utah complete the process in 1-2 years for education program, plus certification time, from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

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