what is the average pay of pipe welder in illinois

Pipe welding is one of the highest-paying trades in welding, and Illinois is a state where demand for skilled pipe welders remains strong.

With its mix of industrial hubs, construction projects, and energy infrastructure, Illinois offers opportunities for both entry-level and experienced welders.

According to labor market surveys, the average pipe welder in Illinois earns between $28 and $35 per hour.

That translates into an annual salary of roughly $58,000 to $73,000, with overtime and per diem benefits often pushing totals higher.

In this guide, we’ll break down the average pay for pipe welders in Illinois, covering hourly rates, annual salaries, experience levels, industries, and the factors that influence wages.

Average Hourly and Annual Pay for Pipe Welders in Illinois

The average hourly wage for a pipe welder in Illinois falls between $28 and $35 per hour.

This is slightly above the national average for welders overall, reflecting the high demand for skilled pipe work in the state.

On an annual basis, pipe welders in Illinois typically earn $58,000 to $73,000 per year.

However, overtime, travel pay, and union benefits can raise yearly earnings closer to or even above $90,000.

According to Indeed, the average base salary for welders in Illinois is higher than many other states due to union representation and strong industrial activity source.

This makes Illinois a competitive market for welders seeking stable, well-paying jobs.

Hourly Pay by Experience Level

Pipe welder pay in Illinois depends heavily on skill and experience.

Beginners often start on the lower end but quickly see increases as they gain field hours.

• Apprentice/Helper: $18–$22 per hour while training.
• Entry-Level Pipe Welder (0–2 years): $24–$28 per hour.
• Mid-Level Pipe Welder (3–5 years): $28–$35 per hour.
• Experienced Pipe Welder (5+ years): $35–$45 per hour.

PayScale notes that certifications like 6G pipe welding can boost Illinois welders’ wages by 20–30% compared to uncertified workers source.

That means a senior welder with the right credentials can push into the $40+ per hour range.

Annual Salary Breakdown

Annual pay for Illinois pipe welders varies with hours worked and overtime available.

A welder earning $30 per hour working 40 hours a week will make around $62,400 annually.

With overtime (time-and-a-half), annual earnings can climb into the $75,000–$90,000 range.

Union contracts and large infrastructure projects often guarantee extra hours, making six-figure incomes possible for the most experienced.

This salary range positions pipe welding as one of the top-paying skilled trades in Illinois.

Pipe Welder Pay by Industry in Illinois

Different industries across Illinois pay welders at different rates.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Construction: $28–$32 per hour – structural and pipeline installation.
• Manufacturing: $26–$30 per hour – factory-based welding jobs.
• Oil, Gas, and Energy: $30–$40 per hour – pipelines and refineries.
• Utilities and Infrastructure: $30–$38 per hour – water, gas, and power systems.
• Shipyards and Fabrication Shops: $25–$28 per hour – typically lower than field welding.

These differences highlight how industry selection can greatly influence a welder’s income.

Regional Pay Differences Within Illinois

Illinois is a large and diverse state, and wages vary by region.

• Chicago Metro Area: Pipe welders earn $30–$38 per hour, reflecting union rates and high cost of living.
• Central Illinois (Peoria, Bloomington, Springfield): Pay averages $27–$32 per hour, with steady manufacturing and utility jobs.
• Southern Illinois: Welders earn around $25–$30 per hour, often in construction and smaller fabrication shops.

Urban centers like Chicago offer the highest hourly pay, while rural areas tend to provide lower but steadier opportunities.

Union vs Non-Union Pay in Illinois

Union membership plays a major role in welding pay within Illinois.

Union welders often earn $5–$10 more per hour compared to non-union counterparts.

They also enjoy stronger overtime rates, safety protections, and benefits packages.

The United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters (UA) is one of the largest unions representing pipe welders in Illinois.

For many welders, joining a union is the fastest path to maximizing hourly and annual income.

Overtime and Per Diem Pay

Pipeline and industrial welding projects in Illinois often require long shifts and extended work weeks.

Overtime is typically paid at time-and-a-half, meaning a $30/hour welder earns $45/hour for extra hours.

Shutdown projects, common in refineries and power plants, can push pay even higher, sometimes into double-time.

Out-of-town welders also receive per diem benefits, usually ranging from $100 to $150 per day.

These extras make a huge difference, often adding $10,000–$20,000 to annual income.

Factors That Influence Pipe Welder Pay in Illinois

Several variables determine how much a welder earns in Illinois:

• Certifications: Advanced credentials like 6G or API 1104 increase pay.
• Industry: Energy and utility sectors pay more than fabrication shops.
• Region: Chicago and Northern Illinois outpay rural areas.
• Experience: Seasoned welders earn $10–$15 more per hour than apprentices.
• Union Membership: Raises base pay and provides better overtime.

These factors explain why two pipe welders in Illinois can earn very different salaries.

How Illinois Compares to Other States

Illinois pipe welders generally earn more than the national average.

The national median welder wage is around $24 per hour, while Illinois averages closer to $30+ per hour source.

States like Alaska and Texas may pay more for pipeline work, but Illinois provides consistent, union-backed opportunities.

This balance makes Illinois an attractive state for long-term welding careers.

FAQs About Pipe Welder Pay in Illinois

What is the average hourly pay of a pipe welder in Illinois?
The average is $28–$35 per hour, depending on experience and certifications.

How much does a pipe welder make annually in Illinois?
Most earn $58,000–$73,000 per year, with overtime pushing totals higher.

Do union welders in Illinois make more?
Yes, union pipe welders often earn $5–$10 more per hour than non-union workers.

Can pipe welders in Illinois make six figures?
Yes, experienced welders with overtime and per diem benefits can exceed $100,000 annually.

Which city in Illinois pays welders the most?
The Chicago metro area pays the highest, averaging $30–$38 per hour.

Do pipe welders in Illinois get per diem?
Yes, out-of-town jobs often provide $100–$150 per day in per diem benefits.

How much does an entry-level pipe welder make in Illinois?
Entry-level workers start at $24–$28 per hour.

Do certifications increase pipe welder pay in Illinois?
Yes, credentials like 6G welding can raise pay by 20–30%.

Are welding jobs stable in Illinois?
Yes, demand in construction, energy, and utilities keeps welding a steady career path.

Conclusion

Pipe welders in Illinois enjoy some of the best pay in the welding trade.

With average hourly wages of $28–$35 and annual incomes of $58,000 to $73,000, welders in this state earn well above national averages.

Union membership, overtime, per diem benefits, and certifications can push earnings to $90,000 or even six figures.

While pay varies by region and industry, Illinois offers strong opportunities for both entry-level and experienced pipe welders.

For those willing to train, certify, and take on challenging projects, pipe welding in Illinois is a rewarding and lucrative career path.