Pipe welder
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 4 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship qualifies you to weld pipes and pipework systems used in oil and gas, petrochemical, power, and process industries to high-integrity standards. You will master advanced welding techniques required for pressurised pipe systems, working to strict codes and quality standards. It can lead to coded welder status, inspection roles, welding supervisor, or specialist contract work across major UK and international industries.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Pipe welding techniques including TIG, MIG, and MMA welding processes
Welding codes and standards such as BS EN ISO and ASME codes
Joint preparation, fit-up, and pre-heating procedures for pipe welds
Non-destructive testing methods and weld quality inspection
Metallurgy and how different materials behave during welding
Health and safety including fume extraction and fire prevention
Reading and interpreting welding procedure specifications (WPS)
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare pipe ends and joints to specification before welding
Carry out TIG, MIG, or MMA welds on pipe in multiple positions
Follow welding procedure specifications precisely for each weld
Inspect completed welds visually and report defects accurately
Maintain welding equipment and check consumables before use
Work safely in confined spaces, at height, and in live plant environments
Complete welding records and test documentation for quality assurance
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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