Career as a Welder in India: Salary, ITI Courses and How to Begin

Welding can be a steady trade career because welders are needed in manufacturing, construction, infrastructure repair and shipbuilding. Careers360 expects about 3 per cent growth in welding jobs, and most openings are in manufacturing. Much of the work is in the unorganised sector and is physically demanding, so pay and job security depend a lot on skill level, certifications and contract terms.

Most welders start after Class 10, and an ITI Welder trade certificate is the common entry route into jobs. Many employers also value a short apprenticeship or on-the-job experience. Admission rules vary by state, so check the ITI admission notice for your state. Physical fitness, steady hands and good eyesight also matter a great deal in this trade.

Pay depends on experience, skill and location. Careers360 says a senior welder can earn more than Rs 3 lakh a year, and welders in urban areas such as Kolkata earn about 21.5 per cent more than the national average. Entry-level pay varies by region and employer, so compare current offers before you decide.

Yes. ITI is the most direct route for most welders, and the trade can start right after Class 10. Polytechnic diploma holders in mechanical or production engineering can also work in welding, usually in supervisory, quality or design roles that involve drawings and inspection. Diploma students often get into welding through placements or apprenticeships.

Welding is male-dominated in India, and Careers360 notes that women are the least likely to take it up. The work needs physical stamina, lifting, and long periods standing, kneeling or working in heat and fumes. Women with the right training and fitness can work in the trade, and safety gear and workplace facilities are worth checking when you choose an employer.

Most welding courses, such as the ITI Welder trade, are not based on a national entrance exam. Admission is usually on Class 10 marks or a state-run merit process. Some states or institutes may hold their own tests, so read the admission notice of each ITI carefully before you apply.

Welders wear safety shoes, goggles, hoods with protective lenses and other protective gear to guard against burns, intense light and fumes. They usually work in ventilated areas, and employers should train workers in safe procedures and equipment use. Ask about training and safety records when you interview for a welding job.

Welders can look for work overseas, but current conditions matter. Recent news reports from July 2026 described layoffs and pay cuts for Indian workers in Dubai, so check the latest job market and the employer's terms before you go. Certifications recognised in the target country also help you get hired.