Picture a welder loading gear into a truck at dawn, headed for a cross-country project where long hours and distant job sites define the workday.
These professionals, known as traveling welders, take on assignments far from home to earn higher wages and support industries that rely on skilled hands.
The question many ask is simple: how much does a traveling welder make compared to local welders?
The answer depends on experience, industry, and location, but traveling roles often pay significantly more due to overtime, per diem, and hazard rates.
Welding itself is a cornerstone of infrastructure. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for welders is $48,940, with about 45,600 openings projected every year (BLS).
Traveling welders often surpass these averages. Oil rig welders, pipeline specialists, and offshore contractors can make between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, with some exceeding six figures when bonuses and overtime are included.
This earning potential attracts workers willing to trade stability at home for higher financial rewards.
The lifestyle comes with challenges. Long shifts, time away from family, and physically demanding conditions are part of the deal, but many welders embrace the adventure and opportunities that come with travel.
This guide breaks down what a traveling welder earns today, the industries that pay the most, and the key factors that influence income.
By the end, readers will know exactly how much a traveling welder makes and what it takes to join this demanding yet rewarding career path.
What Does a Traveling Welder Do?
A traveling welder is not tied to one shop or region. Instead, they accept contracts across the country or even overseas.
Their role is vital for industries that need quick, skilled labor to complete projects under tight deadlines. They often move between pipelines, construction sites, shipyards, and offshore rigs.
The job requires flexibility and resilience. Each site has its own safety protocols, climate conditions, and schedules that welders must adapt to immediately.
This adaptability makes traveling welders highly valuable to employers who need reliability under pressure. It also explains why their pay scale is higher than many fixed-location welders.
What makes a welder “traveling”?
A welder who accepts temporary jobs across multiple locations instead of one permanent site.
Do traveling welders work nationwide?
Yes, they often move between states, and some contracts are international.
Are travel expenses included?
Most contracts provide lodging, meals, or per diem allowances.
Do they usually work overtime?
Yes, long shifts and six-day weeks are common in major projects.
Which industries hire them most?
Oil and gas, shipbuilding, aerospace, and large-scale construction.
Average Traveling Welder Salary in 2025
Traveling welders consistently earn more than local welders due to the nature of their assignments. Their pay often combines base wages, overtime, and travel stipends.
The average range for a traveling welder today falls between $60,000 and $90,000 per year. Specialized roles can push that number much higher.
Oil rig welders and pipeline welders often earn six figures when hazard pay and bonuses are added. Offshore and underwater welders can surpass $150,000 annually.
Hourly rates typically range between $25 and $40, but per diem payments may add $100–$200 daily on top. These allowances boost total take-home pay significantly.
How much does a traveling welder make annually?
Most earn between $60,000 and $90,000, with specialists exceeding $100,000.
What about hourly pay?
Rates average $25–$40, often plus per diem.
Do per diem payments matter?
Yes, they can add thousands per month in income.
Which states pay the most?
Texas, Alaska, and California lead due to energy and infrastructure projects.
Can welders realistically earn six figures?
Yes, especially in oil, gas, or offshore welding jobs.
Factors That Affect Traveling Welder Pay
Not all traveling welders earn the same amount. Several factors influence how much they make.
Certifications play a major role. Welders with AWS, ASME, or underwater certifications earn premium wages.
Industry specialization also matters. Energy projects and offshore jobs typically pay more than local construction assignments.
Geographic region impacts pay as well. Remote or hazardous locations often include higher wages and better per diem.
Union membership can further increase income by ensuring higher base pay and benefits. Experience level also determines contract value, with seasoned welders commanding top-dollar.
Do certifications increase pay?
Yes, advanced certifications lead to higher wages.
Does job location matter?
Yes, remote or high-demand areas often pay premium wages.
Union vs. non-union — which pays better?
Union contracts usually secure higher pay and benefits.
Do welders cover their own travel?
No, most contracts include travel or per diem allowances.
Does experience affect pay scale?
Yes, experienced welders earn significantly more than entry-level.
Highest Paying Traveling Welding Jobs
Certain roles stand out as the most lucrative. These jobs combine risk, technical skill, and travel demand.
Pipeline welders earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, often traveling across states for major projects.
Oil rig welders can make $80,000 to $150,000, with hazard pay increasing the total.
Shipyard welders working on military or defense contracts often earn $65,000–$100,000.
Underwater welders sit at the top, sometimes exceeding $200,000, though the work is rare and risky.
Which job pays the most?
Underwater welding pays the highest, often above $200,000.
Is pipeline welding stable?
Yes, infrastructure projects keep demand consistent.
Is oil rig welding high risk?
Yes, but hazard pay compensates for danger.
Do shipyard contracts pay well?
Yes, especially defense-related projects.
Is underwater welding common?
No, it is specialized and less frequent but very lucrative.
Benefits and Challenges of Traveling Welder Careers
Traveling welders earn more than many local welders, but the lifestyle has trade-offs. The benefits and challenges are equally strong.
Benefits include high pay, travel opportunities, and steady demand across industries. Welders also gain experience on unique projects.
Challenges include long hours, time away from family, and working in harsh environments. Fatigue and isolation can make the career demanding.
What are the main benefits?
High wages, travel, and steady employment.
What are the main downsides?
Fatigue, isolation, and extended time away from home.
Do welders get benefits?
Union and large contractors often provide healthcare and retirement plans.
Is this career family-friendly?
Not always, since assignments may last months far from home.
Do welders control their schedules?
No, project deadlines usually dictate hours.
Future Outlook for Traveling Welders
The demand for welders remains strong, and traveling welders fill critical gaps. Infrastructure repair and energy expansion ensure jobs keep growing.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects stable demand with thousands of openings every year. Automation will not replace traveling welders soon due to the complexity of fieldwork.
Future salaries may rise as labor shortages continue. Employers will likely offer higher per diem and hazard pay to attract skilled welders.
Will robots replace traveling welders?
No, automation cannot adapt well to field conditions.
Which industries will drive demand?
Pipelines, energy, shipbuilding, and infrastructure projects.
Is demand higher in rural areas?
Yes, remote sites often require traveling welders.
Will pay continue to increase?
Yes, shortages are likely to push wages higher.
Is welding recession-proof?
Largely yes, because essential industries always need welders.
Conclusion — How Much Does a Traveling Welder Make?
So, how much does a traveling welder make today? The answer is often far above the national welding average, thanks to overtime, per diem, and specialized work.
Entry-level traveling welders may start near $60,000 annually, while experienced welders in oil, gas, or offshore roles often exceed $100,000. Underwater welders can push incomes even higher.
Is this career financially rewarding?
Yes, especially for those willing to work long hours far from home.
What is the best way to increase pay?
Pursue certifications and specialize in high-demand industries.
Can welders sustain long-term careers traveling?
Yes, many build decades-long careers by moving between projects.
Final advice?
Traveling welding is demanding but offers high financial rewards for skilled, flexible workers.
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
