A welder is one of the most sought-after specialists on the job market, both in Poland and abroad. There is still a shortage of qualified employees in this field, and demand for their services is growing. The construction, shipbuilding, petrochemical, automotive and many other sectors base their operations on the work of qualified welders. Working abroad gives welders the opportunity to earn better and develop their skills in an international environment.

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Table of contents:

Welder – basic skills

The basis of every welder’s job is mastering welding techniques, which include various methods. Among the most popular ones we can find:

  • MMA welding (Manual Metal Arc Welding). This is an arc method, often used in construction. Welders must be able to handle a coated electrode and know the rules for selecting electrodes depending on the material.
  • MIG/MAG welding (Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas). A gas technique, popular in the automotive and shipbuilding industries. Welders must be proficient in using semi-automatic devices and understand the differences between inert gas (MIG) and active gas (MAG).
  • TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas). A method used for precise welding of thin materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel. Requires high precision and a steady hand.
  • Gas welding. This is a traditional method, mainly used in repairs and welding of pipelines.

It is worth knowing that employers abroad often require welders to be able to use more than one welding method. Therefore, the more welding methods a welder masters, the greater their chances of finding a well-paid job.

Welder – required certificates and authorizations


Skills in the form of mastering welding techniques are the most important. However, you should confirm them with appropriate documents. If you plan to work abroad, make sure you have the appropriate certificates and authorizations. One of the most desirable is the ISO 9606 certificate. This is an international standard for welder qualifications, which is recognized worldwide. Such certificates confirm that the welder meets certain quality and safety standards. In addition, if you are considering working in the oil, gas or energy industry, consider obtaining an ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) certificate. Why is it so important? These are documents known and recognized worldwide. They will allow you to take up work as a welder in any country.

In addition, many countries recognize local certificates. For example, in Germany, the certificates confirmed by the German organization DVS (Deutscher Verband für Schweißen und verwandte Verfahren) are valid. For this reason, before leaving, it is worth finding out exactly what certificates are required in the destination country and taking care to obtain or update them.

Prove your skills with experience!

Professional experience is one of the most important criteria that employers pay attention to abroad. Welders with experience in various industries, such as construction, shipbuilding, energy or petrochemicals, have a better chance of being employed.

Experience gained on international projects is particularly valued, as it demonstrates the ability to work in different environments and in accordance with different standards. Documenting your achievements, participating in important projects and having references from previous employers can significantly increase the attractiveness of a welder on the labor market.

A welder must know materials and health and safety standards


Since a welder is one of many construction professions – safety of the work performed is important. Welders, regardless of the country in which they work, must know and comply with safety standards to minimize the risk of accidents. Employers abroad often require the completion of specialist health and safety courses, which are adapted to the specifics of a given country and industry.

It is also worth mentioning the need to have knowledge of various materials. What materials will you have to work with?

  • Stainless steel – used in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
  • Carbon steel – commonly used in construction and infrastructure.
  • Aluminum – lightweight and corrosion-resistant, widely used in the automotive, aviation and marine industries.
  • Copper and its alloys – require special welding techniques, often used in electrical engineering.


It is important to know the properties of these materials. In addition, the ability to select the right welding methods for a specific material.

Summary


Working abroad for a welder is a chance for professional development, attractive remuneration and gaining valuable experience. However, in order to take advantage of these opportunities, welders must have the appropriate skills and qualifications. It is worth focusing on mastering various welding methods, obtaining international certificates, and professional experience.

As a company specializing in recruiting employees for construction work abroad, we help welders prepare for work in an international environment. Thanks to our services, welders can count on support in the recruitment process, advice on the necessary certificates and qualifications, as well as help in finding appropriate job offers abroad. By working with us, welders can be sure that their skills will be appreciated and that working abroad will become a real and rewarding professional experience. Contact us to see how we can help you!