Welder Career Guide in Vermont
Explore welder salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Vermont.
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How to Become a Welder in Vermont
Welders may train through Vermont technical centers, college programs, union apprenticeships, and manufacturing employers. Employers typically determine the required welding processes and performance qualifications.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Welder Salary in Vermont
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Vermont median wage for welder workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $51,000, the median wage in Vermont is approximately $6,320 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Welders in Vermont
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONWelder Training Requirements in Vermont
Welders in Vermont generally qualify through career and technical education, apprenticeship, or supervised employer training.
- Complete practical instruction in arc welding, MIG, flux-cored and TIG welding, cutting, fabrication, and print reading.
- Gain experience with the base metals, welding positions, and procedures used by the employer.
- Pass AWS, ASME, or employer qualification tests when required for structural or pressure-system work.
- Complete safety training covering hot work, ventilation, compressed gases, fire prevention, and personal protective equipment.
- Obtain or work under the applicable trade license when welding is part of regulated plumbing, gas, boiler, or electrical work.
Welder Training Providers in Vermont
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont State University — Randolph Campus | Randolph Center | View Program |
| Center for Technology, Essex | Essex Junction | View Program |
| Stafford Technical Center | Rutland | View Program |
| River Valley Technical Center | Springfield | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESWelder Apprenticeship Programs in Vermont
Manufacturing Apprenticeship and Training
Organization: Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center
Welder Licensing Requirements in Vermont
Vermont does not issue a general occupational license for welders. Plumbing, fuel-gas, boiler, pressure-system, and electrical work may require separate credentials. Public construction projects may also impose certified-welder or code qualification requirements.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSWelder Job Outlook in Vermont
Vermont projects welder employment to remain at approximately 360 jobs between 2022 and 2032. Approximately 40 annual openings are expected, primarily from worker replacement.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the welder salary in Vermont?
The statewide median wage for welders in Vermont is approximately $57,320 per year, or $27.56 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Vermont require welder licensing?
Licensing requirements for welder workers in Vermont vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Vermont Division of Fire Safety — Professional Licensing before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become a welder in Vermont?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 6 Months–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are welders in demand in Vermont?
Vermont projects welder employment to grow by approximately 0% from 2022 to 2032, with about 40 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Vermont Wages for Welder (SOC 51-4121) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Vermont Welder Wages
- Vermont Welder Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Vermont Welder Employment Trends
- Vermont Division of Fire Safety — Professional Licensing — Licensing authority. Vermont Division of Fire Safety — Professional Licensing