Welders, pipes

What does a Pipe Welder do – tasks and work environment

A pipe welder primarily works on assembling, repairing, and maintaining piping systems in various industries, construction projects, and facilities. Tasks include reading and interpreting drawings, preparing materials, performing different welding techniques, and inspecting welds to meet strength and sealing requirements. The work often takes place in environments where safety and precision are critical, such as factories, energy and water plants, or large construction sites. These welders work both indoors and outdoors, sometimes at heights or in confined spaces, requiring good physical condition and adaptability to the work environment.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for pipe welders has shown a steady upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 32,600 SEK per month, increasing to 34 000 SEK in 2023 and further to the current level of 35 900 SEK per month in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 10.1% over three years. The trend is partly explained by high demand for qualified welders and an increased need for pipe installations in industry, construction, and infrastructure. Salaries have also been influenced by recruitment difficulties in the industry, pushing up compensation levels for experienced and certified welders. The positive salary trend is expected to continue as technical requirements and safety standards are raised.

Pipe Welder salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,500 SEK/month (men, public sector)
• Highest salary: 38,200 SEK/month (men, private sector, mid-level education < 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 216 SEK
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 91% of men's salary (women: 32,800 SEK, men: 36 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on demand and industry size in different regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a pipe welder, a vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology with a focus on welding is typically required, often supplemented with specialized courses in welding techniques. Many employers also require certifications for different welding types and materials, as well as practical experience from internships or apprenticeships. Qualifications can be enhanced through further training or internal company courses.

• Upper secondary education: Industrial technology program with welding specialization (3 years)
• Certifications: Welding license (e.g., ISO 9606, EN 287)
• Internship/Apprenticeship: Common at the end of education or as an introduction to the profession
• Further training: Opportunities for courses in specific welding techniques or materials
• Prerequisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, and precision

Common benefits and compensations

Pipe welders often receive benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, work clothing and protective gear, and sometimes additional insurance through collective agreements. Opportunities for further training and certification through employers are common, which can enhance salary development and career prospects.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation, with a shortage of experienced welders and high unemployment within the trade. This is often due to many lacking the proper certifications or specialized skills in pipe welding. Competition for the most attractive positions can be fierce, especially in regions with a large industrial presence. At the same time, there is a significant need for new skills as older welders retire. Challenges such as work environment risks, heavy lifting, and high demands for precision mean that the profession requires both proper training and personal suitability.

Tips for those who want to become a pipe welder

To succeed as a pipe welder, it is important to be meticulous and detail-oriented, as precision is crucial to meet safety standards. Good physical condition facilitates work that often involves heavy lifting and working in various positions. Being flexible and comfortable with changing work environments is an advantage, as assignments can vary daily. It is also important to have a technical interest and a desire to develop, since new materials and methods are introduced in the industry. Building a network through internships and industry contacts increases job chances. Collaboration skills and responsibility are valued by employers, especially since work is often performed in teams. Finally, obtaining relevant certifications early in your career can increase employability and the potential for higher wages.

Key facts about Pipe Welders

• Salary range: 32,500–38,200 SEK/month
• Education level: Vocational upper secondary education + certification
• Work environment: Industry, construction, infrastructure – often physically demanding
• Demand: Great opportunities for nationwide employment
• Job vacancies: 1,437 positions within the trade

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a pipe welder, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, welding manager, or specialist in advanced welding techniques like TIG or robotic welding. Many choose to further qualify as inspectors or assessors for pressurized systems. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities are expected to remain strong over the next five years, with continued demand and recruitment challenges. For those willing to obtain additional certifications and take on more responsibility, there are good chances for salary growth and new roles, such as in technical sales or training new welders.

Common questions about Pipe Welders

• What is the average salary of a Pipe Welder?
  - The average salary for a pipe welder is 35 900 SEK per month.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 32,800 SEK while men earn 36 100 SEK, meaning women earn 91% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a pipe welder?
  - Vocational upper secondary education in industrial technology with welding specialization and certification is most common.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is high, and employment opportunities are considered good even over a five-year horizon.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a Pipe Welder?
  - The highest salary is 38,200 SEK and the lowest 32,500 SEK per month.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salary variations depend on industry size and demand in different regions.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, good physical condition, flexibility, and technical interest are especially valued qualities.