Welding is the method used to fuse two or more parts together through heat, pressure or a combination of them. It is most typically used on metals and thermoplastics; however, it can also be used on wood. This method is used across a multitude of sectors, from manufacturing and aerospace to construction and shipbuilding.
If you’re curious about what a career as a welder involves, you’ve found the right post. Keep reading to learn what a welder does, how much they make, how to become one and more.
How Much Do Welders Make a Year?
As reported by the BLS, the US aging infrastructure requires the skill of welders to help rebuild bridges, buildings and highways. Furthermore, the building of new state-of-the-art facilities and pipelines transferring natural gas and oil could result in a new job boom.
Basic welding skills are shared throughout sectors, so different kinds of welders can easily transfer from one sector to another, subject to where they are most in demand. For instance, welders with experience in the construction sector could also be able to find work in an auto repair shop or the other way around.
Generally, prospective jobs are expected to be good for welders trained in the latest advancements. Nevertheless, welders without current training may have fierce competition for jobs — meaning having the proper training is vital.
In regard to salary, the BLS has reported that the median annual wage for welders, cutters, brazers and solderers in the US was $51,000. Keep in mind that salary is subject to several aspects, including employer, experience, demand and cost of living.
Therefore, welding is a perfect industry for those that are detail-oriented and looking for variety in their daily work. With the proper training and a good work ethic, there is no stopping welders in their careers!
What Impacts a Welder’s Salary?
Experience and degree of skill
Welders that have more practical and polished skills usually earn higher wages. Beginner positions could offer lower starting wages, but as your skills grow, so do your earning possibilities. If you’re wondering how much does welding pay, the answer usually depends on how long you have been in the industry and how complex your work is.
Certifications and education
Acquiring certifications from organizations such as the American Welding Society (AWS) can result in better job opportunities and higher paying wages. Education from a trade school such as UTI helps you acquire the skills and credentials employers are wanting. These aspects can impact salary and help increase your value in the job market.
Geographic location
Where you live and work can greatly impact how much a welder makes. Welders in states or cities with increased demand or increased costs of living could earn more than those in rural regions. For instance, Alaska and Hawaii usually offer above average pay for specialized welding jobs.
Industry demand and job type
How much does a welder make? It is going to heavily depend on the industry and the particular type of welding job. Specialized industries such as pipeline or underwater welding usually pay more because of the risk and skill is entails. How much welders make increases in industries in which demand is high and skilled labor is reduced.
Top Industries for High-Paying Welding Jobs
- Aerospace
- Manufacturing
- Pipeline transportation
- Natural gas distribution
- Construction
How To Increase Your Welding Earning Potential
Acquiring certifications
Getting industry-recognized certifications can help increase your credibility and open doors to better-paying prospects. A lot of employers offer higher wages to certified professionals that meet or exceed specific quality and safety levels. If you’re curious concerning “How much does a welder make?” those that have certifications usually fall into the higher end of the pay rate.
Specializing in high-paying welding types
Specializing in areas such as underwater, pipe or aerospace welding can result in some of the highest wages in the industry. These specialized roles usually require advanced skills but offer considerably higher pay. In regard to what welders earn, specialty welders usually out-earn their general practitioner counterparts.
Continuing advanced training or managerial roles
Continuing your training or transferring into roles such as a welding trainer or inspector, manager could help raise your income. Having experience and leadership skills, you may qualify for positions with higher responsibilities and pay. Whereas welders’ salary differs by experience and location, these roles can positively influence how much welders make and affect how much welding pays overall.
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