How much does a Welder/Fabricator make?
A Welder/Fabricator finds a range of earning potentials in the job market. On average, this profession earns around $49,006 a year. This average gives job seekers a good sense of what to expect. However, the actual earnings can vary widely. Some Welder/Fabricators earn less, while others earn significantly more.
The salary can depend on several factors. For example, experience and skill level play big roles. More experienced workers and those with specialized skills often make more. Location also affects pay. Cities with higher living costs usually offer higher wages. The type of industry can also influence earnings. For instance, those working in construction or manufacturing might have different pay ranges compared to those in aerospace or shipbuilding.
What are the highest paying cities for a Welder/Fabricator?

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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $71,509
In Virginia Beach, skilled workers find welding jobs in both the maritime and construction sectors. The region's strong naval presence offers opportunities with companies like Northrop Grumman. Veterans might find a good fit here.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $70,183
Seattle boasts a vibrant job market for welding talent. Key employers include Boeing and local shipyards. The city's booming tech industry also has a need for fabrication work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $64,521
Portland offers a mix of opportunities for welders in construction and manufacturing. Companies like Oregon Iron Works are always looking for skilled hands. The city's eco-friendly projects also require fabrication skills.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $59,208
In Los Angeles, welders work in a diverse range of industries, from film set construction to heavy manufacturing. Major employers include aerospace companies. The city's large market means there are always new projects.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $56,957
Baltimore's welding job market is strong, especially in shipbuilding and heavy industry. Companies like BAE Systems and local shipbuilders need skilled fabricators. The city offers a mix of union and non-union jobs.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $56,247
Rochester offers steady employment for welders in manufacturing and construction. Key employers include Bausch + Lomb. The city's industrial base provides a variety of opportunities for skilled workers.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $55,972
Philadelphia's job market for welders is robust, with opportunities in construction and manufacturing. Major employers include shipyards and industrial companies. The city’s historical industries offer a range of job types.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $55,800
Denver provides a dynamic environment for welders, with jobs in construction, aerospace, and oil and gas. Companies like Lockheed Martin offer exciting opportunities. The city’s growing tech scene also needs skilled fabricators.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $55,712
San Diego offers plenty of welding jobs in defense, shipbuilding, and aerospace. Major employers include General Dynamics. The city’s military presence ensures a steady demand for welding skills.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $54,963
Minneapolis offers a variety of welding jobs in manufacturing and construction. Companies like Cargill and local steel companies are always hiring. The city’s diverse industries provide many opportunities for skilled workers.
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What are the best companies a Welder/Fabricator can work for?

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Vigor, LLC
Average Salary: $71,284
Vigor, LLC offers rewarding careers in welding and fabrication. With locations across the country, they provide opportunities in vibrant areas like Seattle, Washington; Norfolk, Virginia; and San Diego, California. Workers enjoy excellent benefits, training, and the chance to contribute to important projects.
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SAFE Boats International
Average Salary: $70,105
SAFE Boats International is known for its quality boats and strong team. They have offices in Seattle, Washington; Mobile, Alabama; and other key locations. Workers enjoy a great work environment and the chance to be part of a respected company.
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Timken
Average Salary: $62,091
Timken offers a range of opportunities in welding and fabrication. With locations in North America, workers can find jobs in cities like Canton, Ohio; Monterrey, Mexico; and more. Timken provides good training and benefits to support career growth.
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Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc.
Average Salary: $61,200
Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc. provides exciting careers in welding and fabrication. With operations in New York and New Jersey, employees enjoy a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to work on interesting projects.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $59,038
Paramount Placement connects skilled welders and fabricators with top companies. Locations include Pennsylvania and other areas. The company offers competitive salaries and benefits to attract top talent.
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The Dupps Company
Average Salary: $57,086
The Dupps Company provides rewarding careers in welding and fabrication. With offices in various locations, employees enjoy a supportive environment and the chance to work on exciting projects.
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US TECH FORCE
Average Salary: $54,559
US TECH FORCE offers diverse opportunities in welding and fabrication. With locations across the country, employees benefit from competitive pay, training, and a chance to grow their careers.
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Valmont Industries
Average Salary: $54,276
Valmont Industries provides a range of positions in welding and fabrication. With offices in North America, Europe, and Asia, employees can find jobs in vibrant cities like Denver, Colorado; and Bangalore, India.
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Veritas Steel, LLC
Average Salary: $52,820
Veritas Steel, LLC offers exciting careers in welding and fabrication. With operations in various locations, workers enjoy a great work environment and the chance to contribute to important projects.
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Certified Source
Average Salary: $52,794
Certified Source offers rewarding careers in welding and fabrication. With offices in several locations, employees can find jobs in vibrant areas. The company provides excellent training and benefits to support career growth.
How to earn more as a Welder/Fabricator?
Welders and fabricators can find several ways to earn more in their careers. Gaining new skills and certifications often leads to higher wages. Employers value workers who can do more, so taking time to learn new techniques can pay off. Working in specialized areas like aerospace or nuclear plants usually pays more due to the complexity and demand of the work.
Experience matters a lot. Job seekers should look for positions that offer good starting wages and opportunities for advancement. Building a strong resume with a variety of experiences can make a difference. Networking with other professionals can lead to higher-paying job offers. Taking on roles with more responsibility can also increase earning potential. Each of these factors plays a role in how much a welder or fabricator can earn.
Here are five key factors that can help a welder or fabricator earn more:
- Gain specialized certifications.
- Build a strong and varied work experience.
- Network with other industry professionals.
- Take on roles with more responsibility.
- Look for jobs in high-paying industries.



