Welding MOS in Army

Introduction to Welding MOS in the Army

The Army’s Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) system categorizes soldiers into specific job roles based on their skills and training. One of these MOS categories is welding, which falls under the 91 series, specifically 91E - Allied Trade Specialist and 91C - Utilities Equipment Repairer. Welding MOS in the Army is crucial for maintaining and repairing equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure. Soldiers in this role are responsible for joining and repairing metal parts using various welding techniques.

Role and Responsibilities

Welders in the Army are tasked with performing a variety of duties, including: * Repairing and maintaining equipment: This includes vehicles, weapons, and other machinery used by the Army. * Reading blueprints and diagrams: To understand and follow the specifications for the repair or fabrication of metal parts. * Operating welding equipment: Such as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). * Inspecting and testing welds: To ensure they meet the Army’s quality and safety standards.

Training and Requirements

To become a welder in the Army, one must: * Be a U.S. citizen * Be between the ages of 17 and 35 * Have a high school diploma or equivalent * Score well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test * Complete Basic Combat Training (BCT) and Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in welding * Obtain and maintain a secret security clearance

Types of Welding Used in the Army

The Army uses various welding techniques, including: * Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): Also known as “stick” welding, this method uses a consumable electrode covered in flux to protect the weld area. * Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW): Also known as “MIG” welding, this method uses a continuous wire feed and an inert gas to shield the weld. * Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW): Also known as “TIG” welding, this method uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and an inert gas to shield the weld.

Career Opportunities and Advancement

Welders in the Army have various career opportunities and advancement paths, including: * Specialized training: In areas such as pipe welding or aircraft welding * Leadership roles: Such as team leader or shop supervisor * Civilian career opportunities: Welders in the Army can transition to civilian careers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or energy production

Work Environment

Welders in the Army work in various environments, including: * Maintenance shops: On Army bases and installations * Field environments: In combat zones or during field training exercises * Depots: Large maintenance facilities that repair and overhaul equipment

🔧 Note: Welders in the Army must be able to work in a variety of environments, including those with extreme temperatures, noise, and physical demands.

Education and Certification

Welders in the Army can pursue various certifications and education opportunities, including: * American Welding Society (AWS) certifications * American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) certifications * Associate’s or bachelor’s degrees in welding engineering or a related field

Benefits and Compensation

Welders in the Army receive a range of benefits and compensation, including: * Competitive salary * Comprehensive health insurance * Retirement benefits * Education assistance * Access to on-base facilities and services

MOS	Job Title	Rank	Pay Grade
91E	Allied Trade Specialist	Private to Sergeant	E-1 to E-5
91C	Utilities Equipment Repairer	Private to Sergeant	E-1 to E-5

In summary, welding MOS in the Army is a vital role that requires specialized training and skills. Soldiers in this role are responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure, and have various career opportunities and advancement paths. With competitive benefits and compensation, welding MOS in the Army can be a rewarding and challenging career for those who are passionate about welding and want to serve their country.