Welder Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Fabricates and repairs metal products using various welding techniques.
What does a Welder do?
Welders join metal components using approved welding processes and specifications. Their work requires preparation of joints and materials, control of welding parameters, safe handling of equipment and consumables, inspection of weld quality and careful adherence to drawings, codes and workplace procedures.
Specialisations
How to become a Welder in South Africa
1. Meet the qualification entry requirement. SAQA ID 94100 specifies NQF Level 1 with Mathematics and Science. The record also notes an accepted Grade 9 route combined with a Metal Work and Welding special-skills education programme.
2. Complete the occupational learning programme. Training covers welding theory, safety, drawings, metals, cutting, welding processes, quality and practical welding skills together with workplace experience.
3. Complete the external assessment/trade-test process. The occupational qualification is a trade pathway and requires successful external assessment after the prescribed learning and workplace components.
4. Develop process and industry specialisation. Welders may build experience across different materials, welding processes, positions and industrial environments.
Official Requirements
Qualification: Occupational Certificate: Welder, SAQA ID 94100, NQF Level 4, 373 credits.
Entry requirement: NQF Level 1 with Mathematics and Science. SAQA also records Grade 9 plus a Metal Work and Welding special-skills based education programme as an accepted equivalent route.
Status: The qualification passed its registration end date on 30 December 2025. The last date for enrolment is 30 December 2026 and last date for achievement is 30 December 2029.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Build a strong foundation in Mathematics, Science, workshop safety, measurement and technical drawing. Practical exposure to metalwork can help you understand the environment, but only use accredited training and assessment routes when pursuing the formal trade pathway.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences / Science
- Mechanical Technology (helpful)
- Engineering Graphics and Design (helpful)
Skills that may help
- Hand-eye coordination
- Accurate measurement and preparation
- Reading welding symbols and drawings
- Safety awareness
- Heat and distortion control
- Quality inspection
- Concentration and attention to detail
- Problem solving