51-4122.00

Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

Set up, operate, or tend welding, soldering, or brazing machines or robots that weld, braze, solder, or heat treat metal products, components, or assemblies. Includes workers who operate laser cutters or laser-beam machines.

6.7OUT OF 10SAFEHIGH RISK
Moderate Risk

AI will significantly reshape this role

Safer than 63% of occupations we track

Frey & Osborne (2013) estimated 61% probability of automation for this role
paper →
63%
of jobs safer
382
jobs riskier than this
-9.0%
projected growth

Disruption Vector

Disruption Type

Physical Robots

Physical robotics, autonomous machines, and automated equipment are the main threat to the physical tasks in this occupation.

Welding Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders operate automated welding equipment — a role differentiated from manual welders by its machine-operation focus. Robotic welding systems (FANUC, Lincoln Electric) are highly advanced and displacing much of the routine automated welding setup role. Displacement risk is high for routine operations, while complex setup and troubleshooting retain human value through 2027.

Disrupted byBoston DynamicsAmazon RoboticsTesla Optimus

Salary & Job Outlook

Median Annual Pay
$47,060
US Bureau of Labor Statistics
10-Year Job Growth
-9.0%
Declining
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
Job Zone 2 / 5

AI Risk Timeline

6.7
7.5
8.2
9.7
Today
5 Years
10 Years
20 Years

Projection model: Based on current AI capability growth rates. High-risk occupations are projected to see compounding automation pressure, while human-centric roles show slower risk accumulation. These are statistical projections, not guarantees.

Skills Analysis — AI Vulnerability

AI can replicate (0)
AI-resistant (1)
Mixed
Active Listening65%
Speaking60%
Coordination62%
Monitoring58%
Time Management55%

Career Pivot Paths

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Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders

6.7
/ 10
Moderate Risk
67% automation risk

"You're not cooked yet, but someone's preheating the oven."

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WELDING, SOLDERING, AND BRAZING MACHINE SETTERS, OPERATORS, AND TENDERS
6.7

/ 10

MODERATE RISK

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This analysis is for informational purposes only and is based on statistical models and academic research. It does not constitute career advice and is not a guarantee of future employment outcomes. AI impact varies significantly by employer, region, and individual circumstances. Learn about our methodology →