Career guide · Skilled trades

Welder.

Also known as Welding technician, Fabricator welder

Welders join and shape metal for construction, manufacturing and engineering projects using MIG, TIG and arc techniques, working to drawings and quality and safety standards.

What this role involves

Welders join, cut and shape metal components for manufacturing, engineering and construction projects across Ireland. The work involves reading engineering drawings, preparing joints, selecting the right process such as MIG, TIG or manual arc welding, and inspecting welds for strength and finish. Welders often work in fabrication workshops, on medical-device and machinery production lines, or on site for structural steel. Precision, adherence to welding procedure specifications, and safe handling of equipment and fumes are central to the role.

When this role fits

Likely a fit when

  • you can weld to drawings using MIG, TIG or arc processes
  • you have workshop or site fabrication experience

Likely not a fit when

  • you have only general labouring experience without welding
  • you are seeking a design or drafting role

Official occupation classification

Roles like this usually map to the following SOC 2010 occupation code, which Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment uses on its occupation lists.

Employment permit route signal

General Employment Permit may be possible

This is an occupation-level signal only. The exact duties, salary, qualifications, employer and permit route decide the outcome.

This is an occupation-level signal only. It is not a determination of eligibility, sponsorship, or permit approval.

Typical skills and qualifications

Technical skills

  • MIG welding
  • TIG welding
  • Arc welding
  • Metal fabrication

Transferable skills

  • Attention to detail

Find licensed recruitment agencies

Licensed agencies whose public websites mention the relevant sector. Explore the directory to research each agency yourself.

Before you rely on a permit pathway

Depending on the exact duties, salary and employer, some roles in this area may be considered under Ireland's General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit routes, while others may fall on the ineligible list. This is general information only, not immigration advice, and official eligibility depends on the current occupation lists and your individual circumstances.

Important

Source: IrishTalents editorial content, aligned to the UK SOC 2010 occupation classification used by Ireland's Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

IrishTalents is not a licensed employment agency and does not select or submit candidates. Any agency information reflects the wording found on agency websites only, not vacancies, sponsorship, or suitability.

An occupation (SOC) code classifies the kind of work. It does not by itself determine permit eligibility, Critical Skills status, or sponsorship. Job duties, salary, employer and permit route also matter.

This is general information, not legal or immigration advice. IrishTalents is not affiliated with the Irish government.