How much does a Mig Welder make?
Mig welders have a steady demand in various industries, from construction to manufacturing. The salary for a Mig welder varies based on experience and location. Generally, entry-level welders earn less, while experienced welders command higher pay. The average yearly salary for a Mig welder is around $50,025. As welders gain more experience, their salaries can increase significantly.
Several factors influence the salary of a Mig welder. Experience is one of the most important factors. Beginners may start with lower wages, but as they gain more skills and experience, their pay increases. Location also plays a big role. Urban areas often offer higher wages due to the higher cost of living. Additionally, specializations and certifications can boost earning potential. For instance, welders who specialize in certain industries or have extra certifications can make more money.
What are the highest paying cities for a Mig Welder?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $69,926
San Diego offers many opportunities for skilled welders. The city has a strong maritime industry, with several shipyards looking for experienced welders. Local companies like BAE Systems and Raytheon Technologies provide excellent career paths for welding professionals.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $68,786
In Corpus Christi, welders can find work in both the energy and maritime sectors. The area's many shipyards and refineries depend on skilled welders. Companies like Nucor and Coastal Bend College offer great career options for those in the field.
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Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $68,546
Mobile boasts a thriving maritime industry, with many shipyards needing skilled welders. The city's shipyards and manufacturing plants offer solid job prospects. Local companies such as Austal USA and BAE Systems often look for experienced welders.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $66,727
Stockton has a growing demand for welders, with opportunities in manufacturing and agriculture. The city's diverse industries provide many job openings. Companies like Pacific Gas and Electric and various local farms offer good career paths for welders.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $66,301
Seattle's economy relies heavily on its maritime industry, with plenty of work for skilled welders. The city's shipyards and aerospace companies are always looking for experienced welders. Major employers like Boeing and Norwegian Cruise Line offer promising career opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $61,561
Portland offers a range of job opportunities for welders, particularly in the manufacturing and construction sectors. The city's growing tech industry also needs skilled welders. Companies like Oregon Iron Works and various local construction firms provide many job openings.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $61,551
Philadelphia has a robust industrial sector, offering numerous opportunities for welders. The city’s shipyards and manufacturing plants are always in need of skilled welders. Major employers such as A.O. Smith and various local manufacturing firms provide excellent career paths.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $60,241
New Orleans has a strong maritime and construction industry, providing many job opportunities for welders. The city's diverse industries offer a range of positions. Companies like Bollinger Shipyards and various local construction firms offer good career prospects.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $60,230
Denver's growing economy offers many opportunities for welders, particularly in construction and manufacturing. The city's diverse industries provide a variety of job openings. Companies like Ball Aerospace and various local construction firms offer promising career paths.
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Tuscaloosa, AL
Average Salary: $60,051
Tuscaloosa has a strong manufacturing sector, offering plenty of work for skilled welders. The city's industries provide many job opportunities. Local companies like U.S. Pipe and various manufacturing plants offer good career paths for welders.
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What are the best companies a Mig Welder can work for?

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RQ Construction
Average Salary: $96,384
RQ Construction offers competitive salaries for Mig Welder jobs. They focus on infrastructure and building construction. They work across various states including California, Nevada, and Arizona.
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Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC
Average Salary: $90,031
Craft and Technical Solutions, LLC values skilled welders. They provide welding services for industries like aerospace and manufacturing. Their operations span several locations including Texas and Florida.
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Chipton-Ross Staffing
Average Salary: $81,171
Chipton-Ross Staffing provides good pay for Mig Welders. They offer staffing solutions for various industries. They have offices in multiple states, such as Michigan and Ohio.
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General Dynamics NASSCO
Average Salary: $73,447
General Dynamics NASSCO offers well-paying jobs for Mig Welders. They focus on shipbuilding and repair. Their facilities are located in California and Mississippi.
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MasTec Industrial
Average Salary: $73,063
MasTec Industrial pays well for Mig Welder positions. They work in utilities and infrastructure. They have projects across several states like New York and Georgia.
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Turner Industries
Average Salary: $72,640
Turner Industries provides competitive salaries for Mig Welders. They focus on construction and engineering. They operate in states including Louisiana and Pennsylvania.
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A.E USA
Average Salary: $72,500
A.E USA offers good pay for Mig Welders. They provide welding services for various industries. Their operations are spread across states like Illinois and Michigan.
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BWX Technologies
Average Salary: $70,588
BWX Technologies pays well for Mig Welder jobs. They focus on nuclear power and energy solutions. They have facilities in Virginia and South Carolina.
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Ameri-Force
Average Salary: $69,667
Ameri-Force offers good salaries for Mig Welders. They focus on construction and welding services. They have projects in states like California and Texas.
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The Bell Company
Average Salary: $69,338
The Bell Company pays well for Mig Welder positions. They focus on industrial and commercial construction. They operate in states including Colorado and Utah.
How to earn more as a Mig Welder?
Becoming a skilled MIG welder can lead to a well-paying job. Several factors can help boost earnings in this field. Mastery of welding techniques and attention to detail increases job quality and productivity. This can lead to higher pay rates and more job opportunities.
Experience and certification play big roles in earning potential. MIG welders with more experience and certifications often command higher wages. MIG welders should seek advanced training and certification programs to enhance their skills and marketability. Employers value these credentials highly. Some factors that can help increase earnings as a MIG welder include:
- Certification: Hold relevant certifications to show skill level.
- Experience: Gain more experience to improve job performance.
- Advanced Skills: Learn complex welding techniques to handle tough jobs.
- Safety Practices: Follow safety protocols to avoid accidents and delays.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals to find better job opportunities.



