Blacksmith (Steel Structure Welding)
かじこう（てっこつようせつ）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized profession that joins main members of steel structures using arc welding or gas welding to fabricate frameworks for buildings, bridges, etc. Performs welding operations and handles metal materials at sites or factories.
Description
The blacksmith (steel structure welding) is a specialist who joins steel members used in architectural and civil engineering structures. Based on construction drawings, aligns and tacks members, employing techniques such as arc welding, which melts and fuses metal by passing high current, and gas welding, which welds metal using a flame from combustible gas and oxygen. Requires quality confirmation at weld locations, tack holding to prevent distortion, setting appropriate welding conditions, and safety management under welding fumes and high-temperature environments. Also handles member transport and positioning using cranes and slinging, with teamwork, and accurate and speedy work following instructions being important.
Future Outlook
Demand for steel structures continues with infrastructure aging countermeasures and increasing redevelopment projects. Shortage of skilled workers is a challenge, but introduction of AI control and robot welding is progressing, so acquiring new technologies will increase market value.
Personality Traits
Attentive / Cooperative / Meticulous / Physically strong / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Indoor factory work / Outdoor work / Shift work / Site-based / Team work
Career Path
Apprentice Blacksmith → Blacksmith → Senior Welder → Leader Welder → Site Supervisor
Required Skills
Blueprint Reading / Crane Operation (Slinging) / Gas Welding / Understanding of Metal Material Properties / Welding Machine Maintenance / Welding Skills (Arc Welding)
Recommended Skills
CAD (Weld Joint Design) / English (Technical Document Reading) / MIG Welding / Safety Management Knowledge / TIG Welding
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To ensure welding quality, it is necessary to strictly check dimensions and defects. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because there is handling of heavy members and long hours of standing work. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because it is necessary to endure tension from high-temperature environments and high-altitude work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because work is performed according to prescribed procedures and specifications. |
Related Qualifications
- Arc Welding Technician (JIS Welding Special Grade / Grade 1)
- Crane Operator (Floor-operated)
- Gas Welding Skills Training
- Slinging Skills Training
Aliases
- Steel Structure Blacksmith
- Steel Structure Welder
Related Jobs
- Pipefitter
- Rebar Worker
- Sheet Metal Worker
- Structural Steel Worker