How much does a Welder/Fabricator make?
A welder/fabricator plays a vital role in many industries, from construction to manufacturing. On average, a welder/fabricator makes about $48,895 a year. This means they work hard and bring valuable skills to their jobs. These jobs demand attention to detail and a steady hand, which employers value greatly.
Welders/fabricators can earn different salaries based on their experience and the industry they work in. At the lower end, the earnings start around $35,909. As professionals gain more experience and expertise, they can earn up to $70,000 a year. This progression reflects the importance of their skills and the growing responsibilities they take on. This career path offers opportunities to grow and increase earnings over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Welder/Fabricator?
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $70,737
Virginia Beach offers a stable job market for those in the welding and fabricating industry. Companies like Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics Electric Boat provide opportunities. The area is known for its maritime industry.
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Reno, NV
Average Salary: $67,638
Reno has a growing construction industry, creating steady demand for skilled fabricators. Firms like Reno-Sparks Construction and Sierra Nevada Corp. offer career growth. The city's dynamic economy makes it a great place for welding professionals.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $65,413
Seattle boasts a thriving aerospace industry, giving fabricators many options. Boeing and its subcontractors are always in need of skilled workers. The city's diverse economy provides numerous opportunities for growth and development.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $63,850
Portland's economy supports a steady demand for welding and fabricating skills. Companies like Columbia Sportswear and Nike look for skilled workers. The city’s focus on green technology also opens up unique job possibilities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $62,667
Los Angeles has a bustling market for welding and fabrication. Firms such as Boeing and Lockheed Martin are always hiring. The city’s diverse industries provide a variety of opportunities for skilled fabricators.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $58,172
Baltimore offers a strong market for those in the welding and fabricating field. Companies like Bethlehem Steel and The Johns Hopkins University look for skilled professionals. The city’s rich industrial history provides many job opportunities.
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Midland, TX
Average Salary: $56,632
Midland’s strong energy sector creates a steady demand for fabricators. Firms like Halliburton and Devon Energy offer numerous job opportunities. The city’s focus on oil and gas makes it an excellent place for welding careers.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $55,841
Rochester has a diverse economy that provides many job opportunities for fabricators. Companies like Bausch + Lomb and Eastman Kodak look for skilled workers. The city’s industrial background offers a stable career path for welders.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $55,775
Denver’s growing tech and construction industries create many opportunities for welders. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Vail Resorts are always in need of skilled professionals. The city’s vibrant economy offers various job possibilities.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $55,334
Philadelphia offers a strong market for welding and fabricating skills. Firms like Boeing and Comcast look for skilled workers. The city’s diverse industries provide many opportunities for career growth and development.
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What are the best companies a Welder/Fabricator can work for?
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Vigor, LLC
Average Salary: $71,529
Vigor, LLC offers competitive pay for skilled Welder/Fabricator jobs. They have locations in Portland, OR, and Seattle, WA. The company provides opportunities for welding and fabrication in marine, industrial, and infrastructure projects.
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SAFE Boats International
Average Salary: $67,233
SAFE Boats International provides promising careers for Welder/Fabricators. They are based in Washington, PA. The company specializes in building safe, durable boats and offers hands-on experience in shipbuilding and repair.
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Timken
Average Salary: $62,385
Timken offers rewarding positions for Welder/Fabricators. They operate in North America and Europe. The company focuses on manufacturing and distributing highly engineered bearings and power transmission products.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $62,237
Paramount Placement provides quality jobs for Welder/Fabricators. They have multiple locations across the United States. The company offers various welding and fabrication opportunities in sectors like construction and manufacturing.
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Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,692
Madden Industrial Craftsmen, Inc. provides stable employment for Welder/Fabricators. They are located in North Liberty, IN. The company works in metal fabrication, offering diverse projects for skilled welders.
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The Kelly Group
Average Salary: $57,136
The Kelly Group offers good opportunities for Welder/Fabricators. They are based in Atlanta, GA. The company specializes in construction, offering various projects in commercial and industrial sectors.
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The Dupps Company
Average Salary: $57,075
The Dupps Company provides solid career paths for Welder/Fabricators. They have offices in Wisconsin and Florida. The company works on a variety of projects, including custom metal fabrication and structural steel.
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US TECH FORCE
Average Salary: $54,800
US TECH FORCE offers jobs for Welder/Fabricators with a good salary. They are based in Colorado Springs, CO. The company specializes in defense, aerospace, and government projects.
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Vollrath Company
Average Salary: $54,750
Vollrath Company provides opportunities for Welder/Fabricators. They are located in Wisconsin. The company is known for manufacturing food service equipment, offering diverse projects for skilled welders.
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Valmont Industries
Average Salary: $53,195
Valmont Industries offers jobs for Welder/Fabricators. They have locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. The company works in infrastructure, providing projects in solar energy and utility sectors.
How to earn more as a Welder/Fabricator?
In the field of welding and fabrication, there are several ways to increase earnings. Skilled professionals often find that advancing their qualifications and skills can lead to higher pay. A welder or fabricator who obtains specialized certifications can earn more than their uncertified counterparts. Certifications in areas such as underwater welding or pipeline welding can command higher wages.
Experience also plays a crucial role in earning potential. The more projects a welder or fabricator completes, the more they will know about the trade. Employers often pay more to experienced workers because they can complete tasks faster and with less supervision. Moreover, taking on additional responsibilities, such as team leadership or training new workers, can lead to higher wages. Networking within the industry and seeking out high-paying opportunities also helps. Finally, those who are willing to relocate to areas with a high demand for skilled welders and fabricators may find better-paying jobs.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Certifications: Obtain specialized certifications.
- Experience: Gain experience through multiple projects.
- Leadership: Take on additional responsibilities such as team leadership.
- Networking: Connect with professionals within the industry.
- Location: Consider relocating to areas with high demand.
