Trades in Alberta

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Welder - Wire Process Operator

Learn more about this trade on the alis website.

  • Wage and Salary
  • Job Postings
  • Duties and Working Conditions
  • Interests, Abilities, Traits, and Skills
  • Career Advancement

Welder-wire process operators work primarily in production and manufacturing plants, joining components and sub-assemblies to make various items using a variety of construction materials.Welding in this branch of the welder trade is restricted to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW), Submerged Arc Welding ( SAW) and other semiautomatic wire feed welding processes.The welder - wire process operator uses different welding processes and filler metals depending upon the type of metal, its size and shape, and requirements for finished mechanical properties.For a typical welding project, they:

  • join parts together,
  • may build up worn parts by welding layers of high-strength hard-metal alloys onto them,
  • follow directions given in layouts, blueprints and work orders, and
  • clean welds, check for defects and may use a cutting torch.

Those authorized to perform the restricted activities of this designated trade include:

  • Sponsored Apprentices, and
  • Certified Journeypersons.

For complete information, see Restricted Activities and Classes of Individuals.

Program Information

Program Information & Requirements
Apprenticeship
  • The term of apprenticeship for a welder - wire process operator is 2 years (two 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1500 hours of on-the-job training and 8 weeks of classroom instruction in the first year and 1800 hours of on-the-job training in the second year.
  • Apprentices are expected to demonstrate progress in their apprenticeship program within 18 months by engaging in an activity that will lead to the completion of a period of the program.
  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, the apprentice will receive a journeyperson certificate and an educational credential (Certificate of Achievement).
Trades Qualifier

You can earn a Journeyperson Certificate based on: Work Experience The requirements for a Welder - Wire Process Operator are:

  • A minimum of 36 months AND 4,950 hours of work experience.
  • A successful theory exam.
  • A successful practical exam ($160.00).

Recognized CredentialsThe requirements for a Welder – Wire Process Operator are:

  • A valid recognized credential from another jurisdiction.
  • A successful theory exam.
  • A successful practical exam ($160.00).

Program Credit

Category Information
High School Credit
Related Trades

Applicants with an Alberta or recognized trade certificate in one of the following trades may be eligible for credit towards their apprenticeship or Trades Qualifier program requirements.

  • Boilermaker
  • Metal Fabricator (Fitter)
  • Steamfitter-Pipefitter

Supporting Resources

 
Description
Description / Resources
Resources
Trade Information Get important information about the duties, working conditions, and skills and abilities needed to work in this trade. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Job Information View job postings in this trade, and learn about the current job market, average wage and resources for finding a job. (You will be re-directed to the alis website.)
Entrance Requirement You must satisfy the educational requirements or pass the entrance exam to start an apprenticeship program. If you are writing the entrance exam, there are entrance-level competencies to help you prepare, as well as an exam counselling sheet and study guide.
Curriculum Guide Get information on all of the program requirements and what you will learn.
Classroom Instruction View a list of currently scheduled classes.
Financial Assistance Student loans, grants, scholarships and other financial assistance may be available. For more information visit our Financial Assistance section, visit an Apprenticeship and Industry Training office or call toll-free to 1-800-248-4823.
Examinations Get exam counselling sheets for your upcoming apprenticeship, interprovincial or qualification exam.
Legislation For more information regarding undertakings, activities, and certification requirements, please review the Designated Trades and Restricted Activities Regulation and the Designated Trades’ Activities and Certification Requirements Order.

 

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