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.

Check an occupation permit signal Explore employment permits

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

IrishTalents does not select or submit candidates and is not a licensed employment agency. The agency listings below reflect the wording found on agency websites only — not vacancies, sponsorship, or suitability.

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.

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About this guide

IrishTalents provides this information for general guidance only. IrishTalents is not a licensed employment agency and does not select, submit, or place candidates. This page does not determine eligibility, sponsorship, or agency suitability.

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