How much does a Mig Welder make?
A MIG welder plays a key role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. This job involves using a MIG welding machine to join metal pieces together. The average yearly salary for a MIG welder is around $49,394. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
MIG welders can expect to earn different salaries depending on their experience. Entry-level welders might start at around $34,000 per year. As they gain more experience, they can see their salary increase. Experienced welders can earn up to $75,000 or more annually. Factors like location and industry also play a role. Urban areas and high-demand industries often offer higher wages. This makes the job a good choice for those looking to build a stable career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Mig Welder?

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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $76,045
In Honolulu, skilled welders find opportunities in the maritime industry. Companies like Matson Navigation and various shipyards offer jobs. The demand for welding expertise remains steady due to the city's active port.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $73,215
Anchorage offers a robust job market for welders, with companies like Alyeska Pipeline Service Company and various construction firms. The city's cold climate and infrastructure projects create a steady need for welding professionals.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $70,000
Boston's job market for welders includes opportunities in manufacturing and shipbuilding. Companies like General Dynamics and various local firms provide stable employment. The city's rich history in these industries supports a strong demand for skilled welders.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $68,983
Corpus Christi has a thriving job market for welders, with opportunities in the oil and gas sector. Companies like Nucor and various shipyards offer positions. The city's strategic location and industrial activities create a steady demand for welding expertise.
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El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $67,677
El Paso offers a dynamic job market for welders, with opportunities in manufacturing and construction. Companies like Boeing and various local firms provide employment. The city's industrial growth and infrastructure projects support a strong demand for welding skills.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $65,595
San Diego's job market for welders includes opportunities in the aerospace and maritime industries. Companies like General Dynamics and various shipyards offer positions. The city's strategic location and industrial activities create a steady demand for welding expertise.
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Shreveport, LA
Average Salary: $64,366
Shreveport offers a robust job market for welders, with opportunities in manufacturing and construction. Companies like Louisiana-Pacific and various local firms provide employment. The city's industrial activities and infrastructure projects support a strong demand for welding skills.
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Billings, MT
Average Salary: $63,156
Billings has a thriving job market for welders, with opportunities in the oil and gas sector. Companies like ConocoPhillips and various local firms provide positions. The city's strategic location and industrial activities create a steady demand for welding expertise.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $61,212
Seattle's job market for welders includes opportunities in the aerospace and maritime industries. Companies like Boeing and various shipyards offer positions. The city's strategic location and industrial activities create a steady demand for welding expertise.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $60,962
Stockton offers a dynamic job market for welders, with opportunities in manufacturing and construction. Companies like Pacific Gas and Electric and various local firms provide employment. The city's industrial growth and infrastructure projects support a strong demand for welding skills.
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What are the best companies a Mig Welder can work for?

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Airgas
Average Salary: $96,923
Airgas offers competitive salaries for MIG welders. They provide opportunities in various locations, including major cities across the United States. Airgas values skilled welders for their industrial and commercial projects.
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RQ Construction
Average Salary: $96,757
RQ Construction pays well for MIG welders. They operate in several states, focusing on construction and infrastructure projects. RQ Construction offers a dynamic environment for welders to grow their skills.
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Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
Average Salary: $75,105
Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC offers a solid salary for MIG welders. They work on projects in various locations, emphasizing precision and quality. This company provides a stable environment for welders to develop their craft.
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Propulsion Controls Engineering
Average Salary: $73,935
Propulsion Controls Engineering pays MIG welders well. They operate in key industrial areas, focusing on advanced engineering projects. This company offers a chance to work on cutting-edge technology.
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Solar Turbines
Average Salary: $73,239
Solar Turbines offers a good salary for MIG welders. They work in locations with a focus on renewable energy. This company provides opportunities to contribute to sustainable energy solutions.
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JERRY PITTMAN AND ASSOCIATES INC
Average Salary: $72,981
JERRY PITTMAN AND ASSOCIATES INC pays MIG welders competitively. They operate in various regions, focusing on construction and industrial projects. This company values skilled welders for their precision and reliability.
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Turner Industries
Average Salary: $71,092
Turner Industries offers a solid salary for MIG welders. They work in multiple locations, focusing on large-scale projects. This company provides a chance to work on significant infrastructure projects.
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RSC Solutions
Average Salary: $71,026
RSC Solutions pays MIG welders well. They operate in various regions, focusing on industrial and commercial projects. This company offers a stable environment for welders to develop their skills.
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Bollinger Shipyards
Average Salary: $69,880
Bollinger Shipyards offers a good salary for MIG welders. They work in key maritime locations, focusing on shipbuilding and repair. This company provides a unique opportunity to work in the maritime industry.
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Industrial Trade Services
Average Salary: $68,172
Industrial Trade Services pays MIG welders competitively. They operate in various locations, focusing on industrial projects. This company offers a chance to work on a variety of projects in the industrial sector.
How to earn more as a Mig Welder?
A MIG welder can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, gaining specialized skills can open up higher-paying job opportunities. For example, mastering complex welding techniques or learning to work with specific materials can make a welder more valuable. Second, obtaining certifications can lead to better-paying jobs. Certifications from recognized organizations show a welder's expertise and dedication to the craft. Third, gaining experience in different industries can lead to higher wages. Industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction often pay more for skilled welders. Fourth, networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Attending industry events and joining professional associations can help a welder connect with potential employers. Finally, continuing education can lead to higher earnings. Taking courses to stay updated on the latest welding technologies and techniques can make a welder more competitive in the job market.
To maximize earnings, a MIG welder should consider these factors. Specializing in advanced welding techniques can set a welder apart and lead to higher-paying jobs. Certifications from respected organizations can boost a welder's credibility and earning potential. Experience in high-demand industries can also increase wages. Networking with other professionals can uncover job opportunities that offer better pay. Lastly, investing in ongoing education can keep a welder's skills sharp and competitive, leading to higher earnings over time. By focusing on these areas, a MIG welder can significantly increase their income.