Welding Yearly Salary: What to Expect from a Career in Welding

Welding is a vital part of many industries, from automotive to aerospace, that requires specialized skills and a high level of safety. As such, welders command a competitive wage. But what is the average welding yearly salary? In this article, we’ll explore the salaries associated with a career in welding, as well as the factors that affect salary potential.

Understanding Welding Salary Potential

The welding yearly salary varies greatly depending on the type of welding, the type of industry, and the experience of the welder. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers was $42,490 in May 2019. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,300, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $67,350.

The type of welding you do can also affect your salary potential. Those who specialize in welding techniques such as arc welding, gas welding, and plasma arc welding make higher wages than those who specialize in more basic welding techniques. The industry you work in can also affect your salary potential. Those who work in the oil and gas industry tend to make higher wages than those who work in other industries.

Factors That Affect Welding Yearly Salary

Welders’ salaries are affected by several factors, including their experience level, their location, and the industry they work in. Here’s a closer look at some of the factors that influence welding salaries:

Experience Level

Experience is a major factor in determining welding yearly salary. Welders with more experience are often paid more than those with less experience. Additionally, welders who specialize in certain welding techniques may be able to command higher salaries than those who do not specialize.

Location

Location can also affect welding salaries. In some parts of the country, welders are in high demand and may receive higher salaries. In other parts of the country, welding salaries may be lower due to a lower demand for welders.

Industry

The industry you work in can also affect your welding salary. Those who work in the oil and gas industry, for example, tend to make higher wages than those who work in other industries.

Welding Certification and Education

Welders can increase their salary potential by earning certifications and completing formal education programs. Those who hold certifications such as the American Welding Society (AWS) certification may be able to command higher salaries than those who do not hold certifications. Additionally, completing a formal welding education program, such as a two-year associate’s degree program or a four-year bachelor’s degree program, can help welders increase their salary potential.

Welding Yearly Salary Outlook

The welding industry is expected to grow in the coming years, which could lead to an increase in welding salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of welders is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth could lead to an increase in welding salaries, as welders become increasingly in demand.

Conclusion: Welding Yearly Salary

Welders command a competitive salary, with the median annual salary for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers standing at $42,490 in May 2019. Salary potential is affected by several factors, including experience, location, and industry. Additionally, welders can increase their salary potential by earning certifications and completing formal education programs. The welding industry is expected to grow in the coming years, which could lead to an increase in welding salaries.