Qualifications improve your chances; they do not gate the job. Level 3 is the most recognised.
Level 3 most recognisedOpen entry
Live listings typically advertise £17 to £19 an hour. See the full Welder Fabricator salary guide.
Your route in
You can start without qualifications - direct entry/volunteering; a qualification improves your chances
1
Qualifications employers recognise (Level 3)
Any of these strengthens your application.
2
Where this can take you
General Welder Level 2 (with coded weld tests) to Plate/Pipe Welder Level 3 or Metal Fabricator Level 3.