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How much does a Mig Welder make?

The average salary for a Mig Welder is $49,743 per year in the US.

A MIG welder plays a key role in many industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive. This skilled professional uses a MIG welding machine to join metal parts together. The average yearly salary for a MIG welder is around $49,743. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.


MIG welders with more experience often earn higher salaries. The data shows that the top 10% of earners make over $72,000 per year. Those in the middle of the pay scale earn between $41,636 and $56,909. Entry-level welders typically start at the lower end of the salary range. As they gain more experience, their earnings can increase. Location also matters. Urban areas with higher living costs often offer higher wages. Industries like aerospace and shipbuilding may pay more than others.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Mig Welder?

Job seekers looking for MIG welder positions can find some of the highest paying opportunities in Boston, MA, where the average salary reaches $70,000. Corpus Christi, TX, and San Diego, CA, follow closely with average salaries of $68,367 and $67,606, respectively. These cities offer competitive wages, making them attractive locations for those in the welding field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Mig Welder jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $70,000 and Savannah, GA with the lowest at $61,490.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $70,000
    In Boston, skilled welders find many opportunities with companies like General Electric and Raytheon. The city's strong economy offers a variety of projects, from construction to manufacturing. The competitive salary and benefits make it a desirable place for welders.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Boston, MA


  2. Corpus Christi, TX
    Average Salary: $68,367
    Corpus Christi boasts a thriving job market for welders, with major employers like Nucor Steel and Citgo. The city's coastal location provides diverse opportunities in shipbuilding and offshore industries. Welders here enjoy a good work-life balance and a welcoming community.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Corpus Christi, TX


  3. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $67,606
    San Diego offers a vibrant job market for welders, with companies like General Dynamics and BAE Systems. The city's diverse industries, from aerospace to marine, provide a range of projects. The sunny climate and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive place to work.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $65,491
    Stockton provides a stable job market for welders, with companies like Pacific Gas and Electric and various manufacturing firms. The city's lower cost of living makes it an affordable place to work. Opportunities in agriculture and construction are also plentiful.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Stockton, CA


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $65,297
    Los Angeles offers a dynamic job market for welders, with major employers like Northrop Grumman and various construction companies. The city's diverse industries provide a wide range of projects. The entertainment industry also offers unique opportunities for welders.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Mobile, AL
    Average Salary: $64,357
    Mobile has a strong job market for welders, with companies like Austal USA and various shipbuilding firms. The city's strategic location offers many opportunities in the maritime industry. The cost of living is lower, making it an attractive place to work.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Mobile, AL


  7. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $63,379
    Seattle offers a robust job market for welders, with companies like Boeing and various tech firms. The city's diverse industries provide a range of projects. The scenic beauty and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live and work.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $61,733
    Sacramento provides a stable job market for welders, with companies like Pacific Gas and Electric and various manufacturing firms. The city's central location offers many opportunities in construction and agriculture. The cost of living is moderate, making it an affordable place to work.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Sacramento, CA


  9. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $61,695
    Pittsburgh offers a strong job market for welders, with companies like U.S. Steel and various manufacturing firms. The city's industrial heritage provides many opportunities in the steel and automotive industries. The cost of living is lower, making it an attractive place to work.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  10. Savannah, GA
    Average Salary: $61,490
    Savannah provides a stable job market for welders, with companies like Gulfstream Aerospace and various shipbuilding firms. The city's historic charm and coastal location offer a unique blend of opportunities. The cost of living is moderate, making it an affordable place to work.
    Find Mig Welder jobs in Savannah, GA

What are the best companies a Mig Welder can work for?

RQ Construction offers top-tier salaries for MIG welders, with an average of $96,503. Bollinger Shipyards also provides a competitive salary of $77,243. These companies value skilled welders and offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Mig Welder jobs, highlighting RQ Construction with the highest at $96,503 and ZLA Solutions with the lowest at $65,909.
  1. RQ Construction
    Average Salary: $96,503
    RQ Construction offers competitive salaries for Mig Welders. They work on various projects across the United States, focusing on commercial and industrial construction. Their locations include major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.


  2. Bollinger Shipyards
    Average Salary: $77,243
    Bollinger Shipyards provides good pay for Mig Welders. They specialize in shipbuilding and repair. Their shipyards are located in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Florida, offering diverse opportunities for skilled welders.


  3. Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
    Average Salary: $75,064
    Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC offers attractive salaries for Mig Welders. They focus on technical and craft services for various industries. Their operations span across the Southeast United States, including states like Georgia and Alabama.


  4. Propulsion Controls Engineering
    Average Salary: $73,935
    Propulsion Controls Engineering pays well for Mig Welders. They work on marine and industrial propulsion systems. Their projects are located in coastal areas, including states like California and Texas.


  5. Turner Industries
    Average Salary: $71,349
    Turner Industries offers a solid salary for Mig Welders. They focus on engineering, construction, and maintenance services. Their projects are spread across the United States, with major hubs in Louisiana and Texas.


  6. JERRY PITTMAN AND ASSOCIATES INC
    Average Salary: $71,266
    JERRY PITTMAN AND ASSOCIATES INC provides good compensation for Mig Welders. They specialize in construction and engineering services. Their operations are primarily in the Southeast, including states like Florida and South Carolina.


  7. Tradesmen International
    Average Salary: $71,146
    Tradesmen International offers competitive wages for Mig Welders. They provide skilled labor for construction projects. Their locations include major cities across the United States, such as Denver, Phoenix, and Seattle.


  8. Solar Turbines
    Average Salary: $69,940
    Solar Turbines pays well for Mig Welders. They focus on manufacturing gas turbines. Their operations are located in California, with a strong presence in the aerospace and energy sectors.


  9. Industrial Trade Services
    Average Salary: $67,945
    Industrial Trade Services offers good salaries for Mig Welders. They provide skilled labor for various industrial projects. Their operations are spread across the Midwest, including states like Ohio and Indiana.


  10. ZLA Solutions
    Average Salary: $65,909
    ZLA Solutions offers competitive wages for Mig Welders. They focus on engineering and construction services. Their projects are located in the Southeast United States, including states like North Carolina and Tennessee.

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 from recognized organizations can boost credibility and earning potential. Certifications demonstrate a welder's expertise and commitment to the trade.

Experience and reputation also play a crucial role in earning more. Building a strong portfolio of completed projects can attract better-paying clients. Networking with other professionals and seeking recommendations can enhance a welder's reputation. Additionally, staying updated with the latest welding technologies and methods can keep a welder competitive in the job market. Finally, considering roles in industries that demand high-quality welding, such as aerospace or heavy machinery, can lead to higher salaries. Each of these factors contributes to a MIG welder's ability to earn more in their career.

Here are five factors to consider for increasing earnings as a MIG welder:

  1. Gain specialized skills
  2. Obtain certifications
  3. Build experience and reputation
  4. Stay updated with technology
  5. Seek roles in high-demand industries

Currently 1,051 Mig Welder job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Mig Welder in the US?

Learn what a Mig Welder does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Mig Welder today.
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Mig Welder
1,051 Job Openings