Welder Resume Keywords (2026): 60+ ATS Skills to Land Interviews
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🚨 Not getting Welder interviews? Your resume is missing critical keywords.
In 2026, over 90% of manufacturing and construction employers use ATS to filter candidates before a human recruiter even opens a resume. If your welder resume does not include the exact keywords from the job description, you are invisible, even if you are AWS certified.
Why Welder Resume Keywords Matter in 2026
The demand for skilled welders is at an all-time high. With infrastructure investments increasing and a significant portion of the welding workforce approaching retirement, employers are actively competing for qualified welders. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 40,000+ welding job openings annually through 2032.
But here is the challenge: even experienced welders with excellent certifications are getting rejected before a human sees their qualifications. The reason? Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan for specific keywords.
Hiring managers report that over 70% of welder resumes fail ATS screening due to missing or inconsistent keywords. These systems look for exact matches. If you write "welding" but the job posting says "GMAW," the ATS might not connect your experience.
The consequences are significant. Missing certification keywords like "AWS D1.1" or process terms like "GTAW" can eliminate you before anyone reviews your certifications or years of experience.
This guide gives you every keyword you need to pass ATS screening and land interviews for welding positions in 2026.
Table of Contents
- What Are Welder Resume Keywords?
- Core Welder Keywords
- Welding Process Keywords
- Certification Keywords
- Material Keywords
- Equipment and Tool Keywords
- Industry-Specific Keywords
- Blueprint and Technical Keywords
- Safety Keywords
- Position and Technique Keywords
- Soft Skills Keywords
- Resume Examples: Weak vs Strong
- FAQ
- Related Articles
What Are Welder Resume Keywords?
Welder resume keywords are the specific welding processes, certifications, materials, equipment, and industry terms that ATS systems and hiring managers search for when screening resumes for welding positions. These keywords typically include:
- Welding processes: GMAW/MIG, GTAW/TIG, SMAW/Stick, FCAW
- Certifications: AWS D1.1, CWI, ASME Section IX
- Materials: Carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, exotic alloys
- Equipment: Lincoln, Miller, Fronius, plasma cutters
- Techniques: Multi-pass welding, all-position welding, pipe welding
When your resume includes these keywords naturally and with demonstrated experience, ATS systems rank it higher, increasing your chances of reaching a hiring manager who can review your actual qualifications.
Core Welder Keywords
These foundational keywords belong on every welder resume. They establish your identity as a welding professional.
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Job Titles | Welder, Certified Welder, Journeyman Welder, Welder/Fabricator, Combination Welder, Pipe Welder, Structural Welder, Production Welder |
| Core Skills | Welding, Metal Fabrication, Structural Welding, Pipe Welding, Industrial Welding, Production Welding |
| Experience Levels | Entry-Level Welder, Apprentice Welder, Journeyman Welder, Master Welder, Lead Welder, Welding Foreman |
| Work Types | Union Welder, Non-Union, Traveling Welder, Shop Welder, Field Welder |
Job Title Variations
Welding has many specialized titles. Include relevant variations to maximize ATS matching:
- Welder/Fabricator - Combined fabrication and welding
- Pipe Welder - Specialized pipeline and piping work
- Structural Welder - Buildings and infrastructure
- Production Welder - High-volume manufacturing
- Combination Welder - Multiple processes certified
- Aerospace Welder - Aircraft and spacecraft
- Underwater Welder - Commercial diving specialty
Welding Process Keywords
Welding process keywords are critical for ATS matching. Include both abbreviations and full names for each process you know.
| Process Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| GMAW/MIG | GMAW, Gas Metal Arc Welding, MIG Welding, MIG, Metal Inert Gas, Short-Circuit MIG, Spray Transfer, Pulse MIG |
| GTAW/TIG | GTAW, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, TIG Welding, TIG, Tungsten Inert Gas, Heliarc, Pulse TIG |
| SMAW/Stick | SMAW, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Stick Welding, Stick, Arc Welding, Stick Electrode |
| FCAW | FCAW, Flux-Cored Arc Welding, Flux-Core, Self-Shielded FCAW, Gas-Shielded FCAW, Dual-Shield |
| SAW | SAW, Submerged Arc Welding, Sub-Arc |
| Other Processes | Oxy-Fuel Welding, Oxyacetylene, Brazing, Soldering, Resistance Welding, Spot Welding, Stud Welding |
| Cutting | Plasma Cutting, Oxy-Fuel Cutting, Torch Cutting, CNC Plasma, Laser Cutting, Carbon Arc Gouging |
How to Use Process Keywords
Show process expertise with specific applications:
Weak: "Did MIG and TIG welding."
Strong: "Performed GMAW/MIG and GTAW/TIG welding on carbon steel and stainless steel components, maintaining 98% first-pass weld acceptance rate on X-ray inspected joints."
Certification Keywords
Certifications are among the highest-priority keywords for welding positions. List all current certifications with specific codes.
| Certification Body | Keywords |
|---|---|
| AWS Certifications | AWS Certified, AWS D1.1, Structural Welding Code Steel, AWS D1.2, Structural Welding Code Aluminum, AWS D1.3, Structural Welding Code Sheet Steel, AWS D17.1, Aerospace, CW, Certified Welder, CWI, Certified Welding Inspector |
| ASME Certifications | ASME Section IX, ASME Code, Pressure Vessel, ASME Certified, Boiler Code |
| API Certifications | API 1104, Pipeline Welding, API 650, Storage Tanks |
| Other Standards | NAVSEA, Military Welding, Nuclear Welding, NQA-1, AISC Certified |
| State/Trade | State Certification, Journeyman Card, Union Certification, NCCER |
Certification Keyword Placement
Prominently display certifications in multiple locations:
- Header: After your name (e.g., "John Smith, AWS CW D1.1")
- Certifications Section: Full listing with expiration dates
- Summary: Mention primary certifications
- Experience: Reference certifications when describing certified work
Material Keywords
Material keywords show you can work with different metals and alloys. Match these to job requirements.
| Material Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Carbon Steel | Carbon Steel, Mild Steel, Structural Steel, A36 Steel, A516, Low-Carbon Steel, High-Carbon Steel |
| Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel, 304 Stainless, 316 Stainless, Austenitic Stainless, Duplex Stainless, 17-4 PH |
| Aluminum | Aluminum, Aluminum Alloys, 6061 Aluminum, 5052 Aluminum, 5083 Aluminum, Aluminum MIG, Aluminum TIG |
| Exotic Alloys | Inconel, Hastelloy, Monel, Titanium, Chrome-Moly, Chromoly, 4130, Nickel Alloys |
| Pipe | Pipe Welding, Carbon Steel Pipe, Stainless Pipe, Schedule 40, Schedule 80, Heavy Wall Pipe |
| Plate | Plate Steel, Heavy Plate, Thin Gauge, Sheet Metal |
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Equipment and Tool Keywords
Equipment keywords show familiarity with industry-standard welding machines and tools.
| Equipment Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Welding Machines | Lincoln Electric, Miller, Fronius, ESAB, Hobart, Lincoln Idealarc, Miller Dynasty, Miller Millermatic, Multi-Process Welder |
| Cutting Equipment | Plasma Cutter, Hypertherm, CNC Plasma Table, Oxy-Acetylene Torch, Victor Torch, Cutting Torch |
| Hand Tools | Grinders, Angle Grinder, Wire Brush, Chipping Hammer, Welding Clamps, C-Clamps, Jigs, Fixtures |
| Measuring | Tape Measure, Welding Gauge, Fillet Gauge, HiLo Gauge, Laser Level, Square, Contour Gauge |
| Prep Equipment | Wire Wheel, Sanding, Deburring, Beveling Machine, Pipe Beveler, Grinding Wheel |
Industry-Specific Keywords
Different industries have unique welding requirements and terminology.
Structural/Construction Keywords
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Work Type | Structural Steel, Columns, Beams, I-Beams, Steel Erection, Structural Fabrication |
| Projects | Commercial Construction, Industrial Construction, High-Rise, Bridge Work, Steel Buildings |
| Joints | Full Penetration Welds, Partial Penetration, Fillet Welds, Complete Joint Penetration, CJP |
Pipe/Pipeline Keywords
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Work Type | Pipe Welding, Pipe Fabrication, Pipeline Welding, Process Piping, High-Pressure Piping |
| Industries | Oil and Gas, Refinery, Petrochemical, Power Plant, Natural Gas, Cross-Country Pipeline |
| Techniques | Open Root, Downhill, Uphill, 6G Position, 6GR, Pipe Fit-Up, Purge Welding |
Manufacturing Keywords
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Work Type | Production Welding, Assembly Line, High-Volume, Repetitive Welding, Tack Welding |
| Industries | Automotive, Heavy Equipment, Agricultural Equipment, HVAC, Pressure Vessels, Tanks |
| Methods | Fixturing, Jig Welding, Robotic Welding Support, Weld Cell |
Aerospace Keywords
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Standards | AWS D17.1, Nadcap, AS9100, Aerospace Welding, Aircraft Welding |
| Materials | Titanium Welding, Aluminum Aerospace, Inconel, Exotic Alloys |
| Requirements | Clean Room, Precision Welding, Zero-Defect, Critical Welds |
Shipbuilding/Marine Keywords
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Work Type | Shipyard Welding, Marine Welding, Naval Welding, Hull Welding |
| Standards | NAVSEA, ABS, Lloyd's, DNV, Maritime Welding Standards |
| Specialty | Underwater Welding, Wet Welding, Hyperbaric Welding, Commercial Diving |
Blueprint and Technical Keywords
Blueprint reading and technical skills demonstrate your ability to work from specifications.
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Blueprint | Blueprint Reading, Print Reading, Welding Symbols, AWS Welding Symbols, Fabrication Drawings, Isometric Drawings |
| Specifications | Welding Procedure Specifications, WPS, Procedure Qualification Record, PQR, Welder Performance Qualification, WPQ |
| Quality | Weld Inspection, Visual Inspection, VT, X-Ray, Radiographic Testing, RT, Ultrasonic Testing, UT, Magnetic Particle, MT, Dye Penetrant, PT |
| Tolerances | Dimensional Tolerance, Fit-Up, Gap Tolerance, Weld Size, Throat Dimension |
Safety Keywords
Safety keywords are increasingly important as employers prioritize workplace safety.
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Certifications | OSHA 10, OSHA 30, Safety Certified, TWIC Card, First Aid/CPR |
| Practices | PPE, Personal Protective Equipment, Confined Space, Hot Work Permit, Fire Watch, Lockout/Tagout, LOTO |
| Knowledge | Safety Protocols, Welding Safety, Fume Extraction, Ventilation, Arc Flash, Electrical Safety |
| Industry | MSHA, Mining Safety, OSHA Compliance, Safety Culture, Zero Incidents |
Position and Technique Keywords
Position keywords show your versatility across different welding orientations.
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Flat/Horizontal | 1G, 1F, 2G, 2F, Flat Position, Horizontal Position |
| Vertical | 3G, 3F, Vertical Up, Vertical Down, Vertical Position |
| Overhead | 4G, 4F, Overhead Position, Overhead Welding |
| Pipe | 5G, 6G, 6GR, Fixed Position Pipe, Rolled Pipe, All Position Pipe |
| Certification | All Position Certified, Multi-Position, Unlimited Thickness |
Soft Skills Keywords
While technical skills are primary, soft skills keywords help for positions emphasizing teamwork and reliability.
| Category | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Work Ethic | Reliable, Punctual, Dependable, Strong Work Ethic, Overtime Availability |
| Technical | Attention to Detail, Precision, Quality-Focused, Self-Inspection |
| Teamwork | Team Player, Crew Member, Collaboration, Communication |
| Problem-Solving | Troubleshooting, Problem-Solving, Adaptable, Versatile |
Resume Examples: Weak vs Strong
Summary Section
Weak: "Welder looking for a job. Can do MIG and TIG."
Strong: "AWS D1.1 Certified Combination Welder with 10+ years of structural steel and pipe welding experience. Expert in GMAW, GTAW, SMAW, and FCAW processes on carbon steel, stainless, and aluminum. 99% first-pass X-ray acceptance rate. OSHA 30 certified. Seeking Lead Welder position at industrial fabrication facility."
Experience Bullets
Weak: "Welded steel parts in the shop."
Strong: "Performed GMAW and FCAW welding on structural steel beams and columns per AWS D1.1 code for 50+ commercial construction projects. Maintained 100% visual inspection pass rate and 98% radiographic testing acceptance across 500+ CJP welds."
Weak: "Did pipe welding on job sites."
Strong: "Executed SMAW and GTAW root and fill passes on Schedule 80 carbon steel and stainless steel process piping in 6G and 6GR positions. Achieved 100% X-ray acceptance rate on 200+ welds for refinery turnaround projects."
Weak: "Used different welding machines."
Strong: "Operated Miller Dynasty 400, Lincoln Idealarc, and Fronius multi-process welders for GTAW and GMAW applications. Trained 8 junior welders on machine setup, purge gas techniques, and proper tungsten preparation."
Weak: "Read blueprints and did layout."
Strong: "Interpreted complex fabrication drawings and welding symbols to perform layout, fit-up, and tack welding for pressure vessel assemblies. Ensured dimensional tolerances within 1/16 inch across 20+ ASME Section IX certified vessels."
FAQ
How many welder keywords should I use on my resume?
Use 15 to 25 keywords that match the job description. Focus on welding processes, certifications, and materials specified in the posting. These are the highest-priority keywords for ATS screening.
How do I know which welding keywords I am missing?
Upload your resume and the job description to ResumeAdapter and get your missing keywords instantly. Our AI compares your resume to the job description and shows exactly what is missing.
Should I list AWS certifications on my resume?
Absolutely. AWS certifications are among the highest-priority ATS keywords for welding positions. List your specific certifications with codes (D1.1, D17.1, ASME IX, etc.) and ensure they appear prominently.
What welding processes should I include as keywords?
Include all processes you are certified in, using both technical abbreviations and common names. For example: "GMAW/MIG, GTAW/TIG, SMAW/Stick, FCAW/Flux-Core." This ensures ATS matches regardless of which term the employer uses.
Can I use the same keywords for every welder application?
No. Customize keywords for each application based on the specific job. Pipe welding positions need different keywords than structural steel or aerospace manufacturing roles. Match processes, materials, and codes to each posting.
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