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Salary

How much does a Welder/Fabricator make?

The average salary for a Welder/Fabricator is $48,785 per year in the US.

A welder/fabricator's job involves creating and repairing metal structures. They work in various settings, from construction sites to factories. This role is vital for many industries. The average yearly salary for a welder/fabricator is $48,785. This is a competitive wage that reflects the skill and expertise needed for the job.


The salary for welders/fabricators can vary. The lowest 10% earn less than $35,974 annually. Most welders/fabricators, around the middle of the pay scale, earn between $42,161 and $51,440 per year. The top 10% make over $60,720. Experience, location, and the specific industry can influence earnings. Those in mining, oil, and gas extraction often earn the highest wages.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Welder/Fabricator?

Welders and fabricators can find lucrative opportunities in several cities across the country. Virginia Beach, VA, offers the highest average salary at $70,737. Other cities like Reno, NV, and Seattle, WA, also provide competitive wages for skilled professionals. These cities can be ideal for those looking to maximize their earnings in this trade.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Welder/Fabricator jobs, highlighting Virginia Beach, VA with the highest at $70,737 and Minneapolis, MN with the lowest at $55,277.
  1. Virginia Beach, VA
    Average Salary: $70,737
    Working as a welder in Virginia Beach offers a blend of coastal charm and a stable job market. Skilled welders find opportunities in industries such as marine, construction, and manufacturing. Companies like NASA and BAE Systems provide good career prospects.
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  2. Reno, NV
    Average Salary: $65,668
    In Reno, welders enjoy a dynamic job market with strong growth in construction and manufacturing. The city's diverse industries provide various job opportunities. Notable companies like Sierra Nevada Corporation offer promising careers.
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  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $64,922
    Seattle's thriving tech and aerospace industries create a high demand for skilled welders. The city offers excellent career growth and competitive salaries. Major employers like Boeing and Amazon present numerous opportunities.
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  4. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $63,206
    Portland has a vibrant job market for welders, with opportunities in construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. The city's eco-friendly initiatives also provide jobs in renewable energy. Companies like Portland General Electric offer great career paths.
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  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $61,056
    Los Angeles offers diverse job opportunities for welders in entertainment, construction, and maritime industries. The city's large economy ensures a steady demand for skilled professionals. Major companies like Northrop Grumman provide promising career paths.
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  6. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $57,394
    Baltimore's industrial sector offers numerous opportunities for welders, particularly in shipbuilding and manufacturing. The city's strategic location provides access to major ports and logistics companies. Employers like General Dynamics offer good career prospects.
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  7. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $57,229
    Philadelphia has a robust job market for welders, with opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and aerospace. The city's historical industries and modern businesses provide a wide range of career paths. Major employers like Lockheed Martin offer excellent prospects.
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  8. Midland, TX
    Average Salary: $56,632
    Midland's strong energy sector creates a high demand for welders, particularly in oil and gas. The city's business-friendly environment supports career growth and stability. Companies like Halliburton provide good career opportunities.
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  9. Rochester, NY
    Average Salary: $55,549
    Rochester offers a balanced job market for welders, with opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. The city's diverse industries and stable economy provide a solid career foundation. Employers like Eastman Kodak offer promising job prospects.
    Find Welder/Fabricator jobs in Rochester, NY


  10. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $55,277
    Minneapolis has a thriving job market for welders, with opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and transportation. The city's economic diversity and quality of life make it an attractive place to work. Major employers like 3M offer excellent career paths.
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What are the best companies a Welder/Fabricator can work for?

Vigor, LLC leads as one of the top employers for welder/fabricator positions, offering an impressive average salary of $71,039. Eastman Kodak also provides competitive pay, with welders/fabricators earning around $67,000 per year. SAFE Boats International is another great option, where professionals can expect to make about $66,068 annually.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Welder/Fabricator jobs, highlighting Vigor, LLC with the highest at $71,039 and US TECH FORCE with the lowest at $55,179.
  1. Vigor, LLC
    Average Salary: $71,039
    Vigor, LLC offers top-notch benefits and competitive salaries for Welder/Fabricator positions. They operate throughout the United States, with a focus on ship repair, shipbuilding, and marine services. Workers can expect diverse projects and opportunities for career growth.


  2. Eastman Kodak
    Average Salary: $67,000
    Eastman Kodak is known for its innovative work environment. They provide rewarding Welder/Fabricator roles with excellent compensation. The company operates in Rochester, New York, and offers a blend of traditional and modern manufacturing techniques.


  3. SAFE Boats International
    Average Salary: $66,068
    SAFE Boats International is a leader in boat manufacturing. They offer solid salaries for their Welder/Fabricators. The company has locations in Washington State and Florida, where employees can enjoy beautiful coastal areas and ample job opportunities.


  4. Paramount Placement
    Average Salary: $64,808
    Paramount Placement specializes in placing skilled workers in various industries. Their Welder/Fabricator positions come with competitive salaries. They operate across multiple states, including Ohio and Indiana, providing diverse job locations.


  5. Timken
    Average Salary: $62,385
    Timken is a global leader in engineered bearing and power transmission products. They offer attractive salaries for Welder/Fabricators. The company operates in over 25 countries, providing a global career opportunity.


  6. Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc.
    Average Salary: $60,429
    Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc. provides excellent benefits and salaries for their Welder/Fabricator roles. They are located in Massachusetts, offering a chance to work in a state with a rich industrial history.


  7. The Kelly Group
    Average Salary: $56,923
    The Kelly Group offers rewarding Welder/Fabricator jobs with a strong emphasis on safety and innovation. They have multiple locations in the Midwest, providing diverse opportunities for skilled tradespeople.


  8. The Dupps Company
    Average Salary: $56,128
    The Dupps Company values skilled Welder/Fabricators and offers good compensation. They have a presence in the South, where employees can enjoy a warm climate and a strong sense of community.


  9. Advantech Industries, Inc.
    Average Salary: $56,000
    Advantech Industries, Inc. offers stable Welder/Fabricator positions with a solid pay package. They operate in California, where employees can enjoy a vibrant and diverse work environment.


  10. US TECH FORCE
    Average Salary: $55,179
    US TECH FORCE provides a range of opportunities for Welder/Fabricators with competitive pay. They have locations across the United States, allowing for both local and national career growth.

How to earn more as a Welder/Fabricator?

A welder/fabricator plays a crucial role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. Increasing your earning potential in this field can lead to greater job satisfaction and financial stability. One of the most effective ways to boost your income is to gain specialized skills. Certifications from organizations like the American Welding Society can set you apart and make you more valuable to employers.

Another key factor is gaining experience in different types of welding and fabrication techniques. This versatility can make you more attractive to potential employers. Working on larger or more complex projects can also lead to higher pay. Taking on roles that require supervisory skills can increase your responsibilities and, in turn, your salary. Networking with other professionals and staying informed about industry trends can open up higher-paying opportunities.

Consider these factors to enhance your career as a welder/fabricator:

  1. Obtain industry certifications
  2. Learn various welding and fabrication techniques
  3. Work on diverse and complex projects
  4. Seek supervisory or leadership roles
  5. Network and stay updated on industry trends

Currently 1,015 Welder/Fabricator job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Welder/Fabricator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Welder/Fabricator today.
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Welder/Fabricator
1,015 Job Openings