How much does a Welder/Fabricator make?
Welders and fabricators are skilled tradespeople who work with metal. They build, repair, and maintain structures. Their work is important in many industries. The average yearly salary for a welder or fabricator is $48,084. This means they earn a good living. Their pay can vary based on experience and location.
Welders and fabricators can earn different amounts based on their experience. The lowest 10% earn less than $35,000 a year. The top 10% earn more than $70,000. Most welders and fabricators fall somewhere in the middle. Their pay can also change based on where they work. Some areas pay more than others. For example, those in the oil and gas industry often earn higher salaries. Others in construction or manufacturing may earn slightly less.
What are the highest paying cities for a Welder/Fabricator?
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $63,982
In Reno, skilled tradespeople find many opportunities in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Companies like Sierra Nevada Corporation offer promising roles. The job offers a mix of indoor and outdoor work, with a focus on precision and safety.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $62,806
Virginia Beach boasts a strong demand for welding and fabrication jobs. With companies like Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems, professionals can expect a variety of projects. The coastal location provides a mix of industrial and maritime work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $61,755
Seattle offers a dynamic environment for welders and fabricators. Companies like Boeing and Amazon Web Services provide diverse opportunities. The city's tech and aerospace industries create a steady demand for skilled tradespeople.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $59,867
Portland is known for its vibrant job market in welding and fabrication. With companies such as Columbia Sportswear and Nike, professionals can find work in both manufacturing and construction. The city's focus on sustainability and innovation drives job growth.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $59,738
In Baton Rouge, the energy sector drives the demand for welding and fabrication skills. Companies like Chevron and ExxonMobil offer numerous opportunities. The job involves working with heavy machinery and ensuring safety in high-pressure environments.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $59,575
Santa Rosa provides a mix of agricultural and industrial opportunities for welders and fabricators. Companies like Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards and various manufacturing firms offer diverse roles. The job often involves working on vineyards, equipment, and construction projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $57,043
Los Angeles offers a bustling job market for welding and fabrication. With companies like Northrop Grumman and various construction firms, professionals can find work in aerospace, entertainment, and infrastructure. The city's diverse economy provides many opportunities.
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Midland, TX
Average Salary: $56,928
Midland is a hub for energy and manufacturing, making it a great place for welding and fabrication jobs. Companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron offer numerous roles. The job often involves working in oil fields and on industrial equipment.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $56,284
Fresno offers a mix of agricultural and industrial opportunities for welders and fabricators. Companies like Westlands Water District and various manufacturing firms provide diverse roles. The job often involves working on farms, equipment, and construction projects.
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Birmingham, AL
Average Salary: $56,069
Birmingham has a strong demand for welding and fabrication jobs, especially in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Companies like Mercedes-Benz and Airbus offer numerous opportunities. The job often involves working on vehicles, aircraft, and industrial equipment.
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What are the best companies a Welder/Fabricator can work for?
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Vigor, LLC
Average Salary: $68,685
Vigor, LLC, based in Portland, Oregon, offers competitive salaries for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They work on marine and industrial projects. Locations include Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington.
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SAFE Boats International
Average Salary: $66,689
SAFE Boats International, located in Tacoma, Washington, provides excellent opportunities for Welder/Fabricators. They focus on building safe and reliable boats. They operate in Tacoma, Washington, and Seattle, Washington.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $64,773
Paramount Placement, with offices in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, offers high-paying jobs for Welder/Fabricators. They work on various industrial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc.
Average Salary: $58,850
Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, provides good salaries for Welder/Fabricator jobs. They specialize in industrial and commercial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Dallas, Texas.
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Entegee
Average Salary: $57,017
Entegee, located in Houston, Texas, offers jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a solid salary. They work on various industrial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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The Kelly Group
Average Salary: $56,763
The Kelly Group, based in Houston, Texas, provides jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a competitive salary. They work on industrial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Advantech Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $56,000
Advantech Industries, Inc., located in Houston, Texas, offers jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a good salary. They work on various industrial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Trillium
Average Salary: $55,455
Trillium, based in Houston, Texas, provides jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a fair salary. They work on industrial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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The Dupps Company
Average Salary: $55,233
The Dupps Company, located in Houston, Texas, offers jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a good salary. They work on various industrial projects. They operate in Houston, Texas, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Vollrath Company
Average Salary: $55,128
Vollrath Company, based in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, provides jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a good salary. They work on industrial and commercial projects. They operate in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
How to earn more as a Welder/Fabricator?
A welder/fabricator can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in specialized welding techniques can lead to higher-paying jobs. For instance, working with advanced materials like titanium or stainless steel often requires specialized skills. Certifications from recognized bodies such as the American Welding Society (AWS) can also boost earning potential. These certifications validate a welder's skills and knowledge, making them more attractive to employers.
Another way to earn more is by expanding your job opportunities. Welders/fabricators who are willing to travel or work in different environments, such as offshore oil rigs or construction sites, often find higher-paying positions. Networking with industry professionals and joining trade associations can also open doors to better job opportunities. Additionally, taking on roles that require supervisory skills can lead to higher wages. Those who advance to positions such as lead welder or welding foreman typically see a significant increase in their earnings. Finally, continuous learning and staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies can help a welder/fabricator stay competitive and command higher salaries.
Here are five factors to consider for increasing your earnings as a welder/fabricator:
- Gain specialized skills and certifications.
- Be open to traveling and working in various environments.
- Network with industry professionals and join trade associations.
- Advance to supervisory or lead roles.
- Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.
