Welder/Fabricator Salaries
How much does a Welder/Fabricator make?
A welder/fabricator plays a key role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. This skilled professional uses tools to join metal parts together. The average salary for a welder/fabricator is around $47,696 per year. This figure can vary based on experience and location.
Welders/fabricators with more experience often earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions may start at around $35,000 per year. As experience grows, salaries can reach $70,000 or more. Some welders/fabricators also earn bonuses or overtime pay, which can increase their total income. The demand for skilled welders/fabricators remains strong, offering good job prospects and salary growth.
What are the highest paying cities for a Welder/Fabricator?

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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $60,289
In Baton Rouge, skilled welders and fabricators find work in the energy sector, with companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil. The city offers a mix of industrial projects and a growing tech industry, providing diverse opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $59,339
Seattle boasts a strong demand for welding and fabrication talent, with companies like Boeing and Amazon needing skilled workers. The city's maritime industry also offers steady job prospects for those in the field.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $59,057
Reno offers a dynamic job market for welders and fabricators, with companies like Tesla and various construction firms seeking skilled professionals. The city's growing tech and tourism sectors create diverse opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $58,052
Portland provides a vibrant environment for welding and fabrication careers, with companies like Nike and various shipyards in need of skilled workers. The city's focus on sustainability and green energy adds to the job prospects.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $56,817
San Diego offers a thriving job market for welders and fabricators, with major companies like General Dynamics and various naval shipyards. The city's strong defense and aerospace sectors provide numerous opportunities.
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Midland, TX
Average Salary: $56,768
Midland is a hub for welding and fabrication jobs, with companies like ExxonMobil and various oilfield service firms. The city's strong energy sector ensures steady demand for skilled professionals.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $55,167
Los Angeles offers a bustling job market for welders and fabricators, with companies like Northrop Grumman and various construction firms. The city's diverse industries provide a wide range of opportunities.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $54,182
Virginia Beach provides a strong job market for welders and fabricators, with companies like Huntington Ingalls Industries and various shipyards. The city's focus on defense and maritime industries offers steady prospects.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $54,150
Birmingham offers a solid job market for welding and fabrication, with companies like Mercedes-Benz and various manufacturing firms. The city's strong automotive industry creates numerous opportunities.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $53,833
Fresno provides a growing job market for welders and fabricators, with companies like Pacific Gas and Electric and various agricultural firms. The city's focus on agriculture and energy sectors offers steady prospects.
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What are the best companies a Welder/Fabricator can work for?

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Vigor, LLC
Average Salary: $67,757
Vigor, LLC offers competitive salaries for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They operate in various locations, including Portland, Seattle, and Tacoma. They focus on marine and construction projects, providing diverse opportunities.
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SAFE Boats International
Average Salary: $65,238
SAFE Boats International provides a good salary for Welder/Fabricator roles. They are based in Seattle, Washington, and specialize in boat and marine construction. They offer a dynamic work environment with a focus on safety and quality.
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Kindness General Contractors, LLC
Average Salary: $62,636
Kindness General Contractors, LLC pays well for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They operate in Seattle, Washington, and focus on commercial and residential construction. They value skilled tradespeople and offer a supportive work culture.
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Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc.
Average Salary: $57,412
Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc. offers a solid salary for Welder/Fabricator positions. They are located in Seattle, Washington, and work on a variety of industrial projects. They emphasize craftsmanship and attention to detail.
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The Kelly Group
Average Salary: $56,706
The Kelly Group provides a good salary for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They operate in Seattle, Washington, and focus on construction and industrial projects. They offer a collaborative work environment with opportunities for growth.
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Advantech Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $56,000
Advantech Industries, Inc. offers competitive pay for Welder/Fabricator roles. They are based in Seattle, Washington, and work on a range of industrial and construction projects. They value skilled tradespeople and offer a stable work environment.
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The Dupps Company
Average Salary: $54,590
The Dupps Company provides a fair salary for Welder/Fabricator positions. They operate in Seattle, Washington, and focus on construction and industrial projects. They offer a supportive work culture with opportunities for professional development.
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22nd Century Technologies
Average Salary: $53,250
22nd Century Technologies offers a decent salary for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They are located in Seattle, Washington, and work on various industrial and construction projects. They emphasize innovation and quality in their work.
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Aerotek
Average Salary: $52,749
Aerotek provides a good salary for Welder/Fabricator roles. They are based in Seattle, Washington, and offer a variety of job opportunities in construction and industrial sectors. They focus on matching skilled workers with the right positions.
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Capital Quarries
Average Salary: $52,411
Capital Quarries offers a competitive salary for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They operate in Seattle, Washington, and focus on quarrying and construction projects. They value skilled tradespeople and offer a stable work environment.
How to earn more as a Welder/Fabricator?
A welder/fabricator can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized skills can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Certifications in specific welding techniques or materials can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Experience in high-demand industries, such as aerospace or energy, often leads to better pay. Networking with other professionals can lead to job referrals and insider knowledge about higher-paying positions. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest industry trends can also lead to better job offers.
Another way to earn more is by taking on additional responsibilities. This could include leading projects, mentoring new employees, or managing small teams. These roles often come with higher pay. Seeking out jobs in areas with a shortage of skilled welders/fabricators can also lead to better compensation. Employers in these regions may offer higher wages to attract qualified candidates. Finally, considering roles in different geographical locations can make a significant difference. Urban areas or regions with a high cost of living often offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Obtain specialized skills and certifications.
- Gain experience in high-demand industries.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Take on additional responsibilities and leadership roles.
- Consider jobs in areas with a shortage of skilled welders/fabricators.