A brazer works with brass, melting and shaping it into various forms as the specific task requires. The brazer uses a special torch as well as an additional rod, which together heat the brass to its melting temperature in order to bind the separate pieces into one whole. In some cases, a brazer may be assigned to perform a modification to an already completed welding job, as well as to examine the work of other brazers as a form of peer review. A brazer may be tasked with assisting other brazers, for example by operating the more complicated pieces of equipment that require a high level of concentration.
To become a brazer, a professional education in welding is usually required, as well as knowledge in the field of engineering in general. Though a higher degree of education isn’t a strict requirement in most cases, some companies may ask the candidate to complete some specialized courses related to the specific operations they’ll be performing. As with other jobs of its type, a brazer learns the majority of their skills directly in the course of their employment.
Brazers initially earn between $25,000 – $40,000, though the numbers quickly rise as the brazer gains experience and retains their employment. A brazer’s level of experience and prior knowledge can earn them some high-paying positions at a later point in their career, and some are able to earn up to $70,000 annually, if they find employment at the proper company. Annual salaries of around $60,000 aren’t uncommon for experienced brazers, and the demand for the position has been high lately.