How much does a Welder/Fabricator make?
A welder or fabricator can find a range of job opportunities that offer competitive salaries. Their work involves shaping, joining, and assembling metal parts. This is an essential skill in many industries. With experience and skill, the pay can rise. The average yearly salary for a welder or fabricator is around $50,286. This number can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
Here is a look at the salary distribution for welders and fabricators:
- About 5.33% earn less than $36,000
- 15.63% earn between $36,000 and $39,818
- 17.51% earn between $39,818 and $43,636
- 18.28% earn between $43,636 and $47,455
- 16.30% earn between $47,455 and $51,273
- 6.55% earn between $51,273 and $55,091
- 8.10% earn between $55,091 and $58,909
- 3.47% earn between $58,909 and $62,727
- 1.92% earn between $62,727 and $66,545
- 0.82% earn between $66,545 and $70,364
- 1.10% earn more than $70,364
What are the highest paying cities for a Welder/Fabricator?

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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $61,565
Portland offers a vibrant job market for skilled metalworkers. Companies like Precision Castparts Corp and Columbia Sportswear seek professionals with welding expertise. The city's strong manufacturing sector makes it a great place for welding careers.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $60,558
In Jacksonville, the shipbuilding and aerospace industries present numerous opportunities for welding professionals. Companies such as BAE Systems and Blount International look for qualified welders. The warm climate and growing economy make it an attractive place to work.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $59,012
Denver's diverse job market includes opportunities for welders in construction and manufacturing. Major employers like Kiewit Corporation and Vail Resorts offer rewarding positions. The city's high altitude and outdoor activities also provide a unique living experience.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $58,581
Salt Lake City boasts a stable job market for welding professionals. Companies like Huntsman Corporation and Zions Bank look for skilled welders. The city's strong community and outdoor lifestyle create a balanced work-life environment.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $55,385
Milwaukee's manufacturing hub offers plenty of opportunities for welders. Companies such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors seek skilled metalworkers. The city's rich industrial history and cultural scene make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $55,369
Buffalo's economy relies heavily on manufacturing, providing many welding jobs. Companies like General Electric and Topy America look for experienced welders. The city's cultural attractions and affordable cost of living add to its appeal.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $55,300
Charlotte's growing job market includes numerous positions for welders in construction and manufacturing. Companies such as Bank of America and Duke Energy offer stable employment. The city's expanding economy and southern charm make it a great place to work.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $54,747
Nashville offers a mix of opportunities for welders in music equipment manufacturing and construction. Companies like Gibson Guitars and Peabody Hotel look for skilled welders. The city's vibrant music scene and southern hospitality create a unique work environment.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $53,485
Cincinnati's manufacturing sector provides many welding jobs. Companies like Procter & Gamble and GE Appliances look for skilled welders. The city's rich industrial history and affordable living make it an attractive place to work.
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Green Bay, WI
Average Salary: $53,106
Green Bay's strong manufacturing industry offers plenty of opportunities for welders. Companies like Kimberly-Clark and Johnson Controls look for experienced welders. The city's strong community and outdoor activities provide a balanced lifestyle.
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What are the best companies a Welder/Fabricator can work for?

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Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf
Average Salary: $82,450
Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf offers excellent opportunities for skilled welders and fabricators. This company operates across multiple states, including Illinois and Wisconsin. They focus on agricultural machinery and provide a dynamic work environment.
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SAFE Boats International, LLC
Average Salary: $72,059
SAFE Boats International, LLC provides a strong workplace for welders and fabricators. They are located in Georgia and Tennessee, where they build boats. This company values skilled craftsmanship and offers a stable career path.
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Northstar Technologies, Inc.
Average Salary: $61,000
Northstar Technologies, Inc. operates in Colorado and provides high-paying positions for welders and fabricators. They work on industrial equipment and value skilled artisans. This company offers a professional and rewarding work environment.
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US Tech Force
Average Salary: $56,867
US Tech Force is a company that operates across multiple locations in the United States. They offer competitive wages for welders and fabricators. They focus on tech and engineering projects, providing an engaging and innovative work setting.
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The Dupps Company
Average Salary: $56,729
The Dupps Company provides quality jobs for welders and fabricators. They are located in Mississippi and Tennessee. This company offers steady work and values experienced welders who can handle a variety of tasks.
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NESC Staffing
Average Salary: $56,214
NESC Staffing offers excellent opportunities for welders and fabricators. They operate in several states and focus on providing temporary staffing solutions. This company values skilled workers and offers a professional work environment.
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STL Staffing
Average Salary: $55,500
STL Staffing provides a range of positions for welders and fabricators. They are located in Missouri and Kansas. This company focuses on industrial and manufacturing jobs, offering a stable career path.
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WELD-FAB MANUFACTURING CORP
Average Salary: $54,967
WELD-FAB MANUFACTURING CORP offers skilled positions for welders and fabricators. They are located in New Jersey and New York. This company focuses on custom metal fabrication and offers a dynamic work environment.
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Summit Skilled Solutions / MCM
Average Salary: $54,500
Summit Skilled Solutions / MCM provides good opportunities for welders and fabricators. They operate in Michigan and Ohio. This company focuses on manufacturing and construction projects, offering a rewarding career path.
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Entegee
Average Salary: $51,214
Entegee offers positions for welders and fabricators in multiple locations. They focus on engineering and construction projects. This company values skilled craftsmanship and offers a professional work environment.
How to earn more as a Welder/Fabricator?
A welder/fabricator can increase earnings through various professional development strategies. Seeking out specialized training and certifications can open doors to higher-paying jobs. These credentials showcase expertise and willingness to advance skills. Networking within the industry creates opportunities for higher-paying positions and job referrals.
Experience and consistency in delivering quality work can lead to raises and promotions. Taking on complex projects demonstrates reliability and skill. Consider transitioning to industries with higher demand for welding/fabrication skills, such as aerospace or renewable energy. These sectors often offer competitive wages. Here are some steps to earn more:
- Get Certified: Obtain certifications from recognized bodies like the American Welding Society.
- Expand Skills: Learn new welding techniques or fabrication methods.
- Network: Join professional organizations and attend industry events.
- Gain Experience: Work on a variety of projects to build a strong portfolio.
- Explore New Sectors: Look for opportunities in high-demand industries.



