Summary
- A multi-process welder can handle several welding methods, making them more valuable and better paid in local and overseas projects.
- TESDA training and National Certificates (NC) are the foundation for building a strong welding career in the Philippines and abroad.
- Real skills come from “burn time” at the welding booth—consistent practice in different positions and processes.
- Multi-process welders can earn significantly more than single-process welders, especially in oil and gas, shipbuilding, and heavy industry.
- With the right attitude, safety habits, and continuous learning, Filipino welders can compete and excel on the global stage.
Why go multi-process?
For many Filipinos, welding is more than just a job—it is a pathway to overseas work, higher income, and a better life for their families. You will find Filipino welders in shipyards, oil rigs, construction sites, and factories all over the world. But in today’s competitive market, being “just a welder” is no longer enough.
A multi-process welder is someone who is proficient in several welding methods, usually including:
- SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
- GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding)
- FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
- GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding)
This versatility is a major advantage. Employers prefer welders who can switch from stick welding to MIG, from flux-cored to TIG, depending on the project. That flexibility often means higher salary, more job security, and better chances of being selected for overseas contracts.
For Filipinos who dream of working abroad—whether in the Middle East, Europe, North America, or Asia—becoming a multi-process welder is one of the most powerful ways to stand out.
Understanding the four core processes
To be considered truly multi-process, you need to understand and eventually master four main welding methods. Each one is used in different industries and situations.
SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
- Often called stick welding
- Commonly taught first in TESDA programs
- Uses a consumable electrode coated in flux
- Widely used in construction, repair work, and basic fabrication
SMAW is usually the starting point for Filipino welders. It builds your basic hand skills, arc control, and understanding of weld puddle behavior.
GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding)
- Commonly known as MIG welding
- Uses a continuous wire feed and shielding gas
- Known for speed and efficiency
- Popular in manufacturing, automotive, and production lines
GMAW is ideal for high-volume work where speed and consistency are important. Many factories and fabrication shops abroad rely heavily on MIG welders.
FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
- Uses a tubular wire filled with flux
- Can be used with or without shielding gas
- Excellent for heavy-duty welding and thick materials
- Common in shipyards, structural steel, and large construction projects
FCAW is often used in outdoor or windy environments where gas shielding is difficult. It is a favorite in shipbuilding and high-rise construction.
GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding)
- Also called TIG welding
- Uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and separate filler rod
- Produces very clean, precise welds
- Used for stainless steel, aluminum, and high-specification work
GTAW is considered a high-skill process. It is slower but offers excellent control and quality. Many high-paying jobs in oil and gas, aerospace, and food-grade piping require strong TIG skills.
Step 1: Formal training through TESDA
In the Philippines, TESDA National Certificates (NC) are your official proof of competency. They are recognized by local employers and often requested by overseas agencies.
Finding a school
Look for TESDA-accredited training centers that offer:
- SMAW NC I and NC II
- GMAW NC II
- FCAW NC II
- GTAW NC II
You can search through the TESDA website or visit local training centers in your province or city. Some schools specialize in welding and have strong connections with employers and agencies.
Understanding NC levels
| NC Level | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| NC I | Basic competencies | Introductory skills, helpers, basic fabrication |
| NC II | Industry standard | Required for most local and overseas jobs |
| NC III | Advanced skills | Pipe welding, more complex joints |
| NC IV | Highly specialized | Supervisory roles, advanced processes and materials |
Estimated costs and scholarships
Training costs vary depending on the school and location. Typical expenses include:
- Tuition fees
- Materials and consumables
- Assessment fees
However, there are scholarship programs such as:
These can reduce or even fully cover your tuition. It is worth asking the training center or TESDA office about available scholarships before you enroll.
Step 2: Hands-on practice and real-world skills
Welding is a hands-on trade. You cannot become a good welder by watching videos alone. You need “burn time”—actual hours under the hood, striking arcs and running beads.
The importance of practice
Consistent practice helps you:
- Develop steady hand control
- Learn how to read the weld puddle
- Adjust your travel speed and angle
- Understand how different metals react to heat
Even after finishing TESDA training, many successful welders continue to practice in small workshops, side jobs, or by helping more experienced welders.
Mastering different positions
Welders are tested in different positions, such as:
- Flat (1G/1F)
- Horizontal (2G/2F)
- Vertical (3G/3F)
- Overhead (4G/4F)
- Pipe positions (5G, 6G)
The 6G pipe position is one of the most challenging and respected. Many high-paying overseas jobs require welders who can pass a 6G test.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Investing in your own PPE shows professionalism and protects your health:
- Auto-darkening welding helmet
- Welding gloves
- Safety shoes
- Flame-resistant clothing
- Ear protection
- Respirator or mask for fumes
Good PPE is not just an expense—it is a long-term investment in your safety and career.
Step 3: Getting certified (the assessment)
After training and practice, the next step is to take the TESDA NC assessment.
What happens during the assessment?
Typically, you will:
- Receive a welding test plate or pipe
- Follow a welding procedure specification (WPS)
- Perform welds in specific positions
- Have your work inspected visually and sometimes tested (bend test, X-ray, or other methods)
Assessors will check:
- Weld appearance
- Penetration and fusion
- Presence of defects (porosity, cracks, undercut, etc.)
- Your safety practices and work habits
Common reasons for failing
Many trainees fail their first assessment because of:
- Poor joint preparation
- Incorrect amperage or voltage settings
- Inconsistent travel speed
- Lack of practice in the required position
- Not following the WPS properly
The solution is simple but not easy: more focused practice, especially in the exact position and process used in the assessment.
Beyond TESDA: international certifications
If you plan to work abroad, especially in countries like the United States, Canada, or in high-spec industries, you may encounter:
- AWS (American Welding Society) certifications
- ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) qualifications
- EN/ISO standards in Europe
These are usually employer-specific and done at the job site or testing center. Having strong TESDA credentials and real skills will help you pass these international tests.
Step 4: Building your career path
Once you are certified, the next step is to build real-world experience and move toward multi-process status.
Entry-level roles
Many welders start as:
- Helper or assistant
- Grinder or fitter’s assistant
- Shop welder on simple joints
These roles allow you to observe experienced welders, learn worksite routines, and slowly take on more complex tasks.
Choosing a specialization
As you gain experience, you can choose a niche:
- Shipbuilding and repair
- Oil and gas (onshore and offshore)
- Structural steel and high-rise buildings
- Pipeline welding
- Manufacturing and fabrication
- Specialized fields like aerospace or food-grade stainless steel
Multi-process welders are especially valuable in oil and gas, shipyards, and large construction projects.
Salary expectations: local vs overseas
Below is a simple comparison of estimated earnings.
| Level | Local Daily Rate (Estimated) | Overseas Monthly Rate (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
| SMAW NC II | ₱600 – ₱900 | USD 800 – 1,200 |
| Multi-process (6G) | ₱1,200 – ₱2,500 | USD 2,500 – 5,000+ |
Local rates depend on region and company. Overseas salaries vary by country, project, and contract terms. Many overseas welders also receive free accommodation, transportation, and sometimes food, which increases their ability to save.
Tips for success in the Filipino workplace and beyond
Technical skills are important, but your attitude and habits will determine how far you go.
Work attitude
Employers value welders who are:
- Punctual and reliable
- Willing to learn new processes
- Able to work in hot, cramped, or uncomfortable environments
- Respectful to supervisors and coworkers
Many Filipino welders who became foremen or supervisors were not always the “best” welders technically—but they were consistent, responsible, and easy to work with.
Health and safety
Welding can be hard on your body if you ignore safety:
- Protect your eyes from arc flash with a proper helmet
- Use respirators or masks when working in confined spaces or with coated metals
- Take breaks to avoid fatigue and heat stress
- Keep your work area clean to prevent accidents
Long-term health is just as important as short-term income.
Networking and community
Joining welding communities can help you:
- Learn about job openings
- Get tips on assessments and interviews
- See real-world weld tests and project photos
- Stay updated on new techniques and tools
Many Filipino welders find overseas opportunities through referrals from friends, former coworkers, or online groups.
Conclusion
The path to becoming a multi-process welder is not easy, but it is clear and achievable. It starts with formal training through TESDA, continues with serious hands-on practice, and grows through certifications, real-world experience, and continuous learning.
For Filipinos who dream of working abroad or securing high-paying jobs in local industries, multi-process welding is a powerful career choice. It combines technical skill, physical work, and global demand in one profession.
Your journey can start with a single course, a single weld, and a single decision to take this trade seriously. With dedication, discipline, and the right mindset, you can build a welding career that supports your family, opens doors overseas, and proves that Filipino skill truly stands out in the world.