A MIG or MAG welder's job description typically includes:
Preparing materials: Reading and interpreting blueprints, measuring, cutting, and drilling materials
Welding: Joining metal parts with a MIG or MAG welding machine, applying filler metal or welding rod, and removing slag
Testing: Testing the strength of welds for cracks, defects, and porosity
Maintaining equipment: Cleaning, inspecting, and troubleshooting welding equipment and tools
Following safety standards: Following all relevant safety procedures and protocols
Communicating: Liaising with teams and supervisors to get equipment and materials in time to meet deadlines
Training: Training welding apprentices and mentoring recruits
Quality control: Performing quality control checks on welds, including measuring diameters and thickness
Inventory management: Managing inventories of welding equipment and materials
MIG stands for metal inert gas, and MAG stands for metal active gas. MIG welding uses an inert shielding gas, while MAG welding uses an active shielding gas.