Duties and responsibilities
A Sub Arc Operator is responsible for setting up and operating ‘arc’ welding machines. This is the machine that welds together parts of fabricated metal products. Their typical duties and responsibilities include:
- Setting up the arc welding machine, this includes aligning and adjusting the machine
- Using the machine to weld materials together, as specified by blueprints, layouts, welding procedures, and operating charts
- Selecting the correct voltage and power of the machine
- Visually examining welds for adherence to specifications
- Adjusting machine set up according to vary size, location and penetration of bead
- Rewelding defective joints, using hand-welding equipment
- Preheating surfaces, using hand torch or heating furnaces
Qualifications
To become a Sub Arc operator, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent, combined with technical and on-the-job training. These can be awarded from vocational–technical institutes, community colleges, private welding schools and various branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Skills and relevant work experience
In order to have the best possible employment opportunities, Sac Arc operators should aim to get as much experience in the construction and welding industry. They also need skills such as:
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- Physical fitness and stamina, as Sac Arc operators will need to lift heavy materials that need to be welded
- Communication skills are Sac Arc operators will need to carefully and clearly communicate with other welders
- Detail orientation, as Sac Arc operators will need to cut materials and weld them to the exact millimetre
- Dexterity, as Sac Arc operators will need good hand eye coordination to operate equipment
- Critical thinking, as Sac Arc operators must be able to problem-solve when issues arise in a project
Hours
Sac Arc Operators will work full time, and overtime is common. Many manufacturing firms have two or three 8- to 12-hour shifts each day, allowing the firm to continue production around the clock if needed. As a result, Sac Arc operators may work evenings and weekends.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers was $42,490 in 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,470, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $64,240. Sac arc operators can expect to earn a salary in a similar range.
It is important to not that the median income for welders will vary with their experience and skill level, the industry, and the size of the company they work for.
Progression
The employment growth of welders, including Sac Arc operators, is expected to increase over the coming years. This is due to the nation’s aging infrastructure needing the expertise of welders. After completing their initial training, Sac Arc operators can take further courses and certifications to improve their job prospects and opportunities