Starting a welding career often comes with excitement and questions about income. Many aspiring welders wonder if their first jobs will provide enough to support their goals.
Welding is both physically demanding and highly valued in industries like construction, automotive, and manufacturing.
The demand for skilled welders is increasing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates more than 42,000 new welding jobs will be added between 2022 and 2032 source.
This rising demand influences wages, especially for beginners entering the trade.
While pay may vary by state, certifications, and job type, understanding average salaries can help new welders set realistic expectations.
Let’s break down exactly how much entry level welders earn, what affects their income, and how to boost pay faster.
Quick Answer — How Much Does a Entry Level Welder Make?
Entry level welders in the U.S. generally make $16 to $22 per hour, translating to $33,000 to $45,000 annually. However, wages depend on industry, location, and certifications.
According to Indeed, the national average for beginner welders is $38,000 per year, while ZipRecruiter reports some entry roles offering up to $46,000 annually source.
How much per hour does a new welder earn?
Most new welders earn between $16 and $22 per hour starting out.
Do entry level welders make overtime pay?
Yes. Overtime often pays time-and-a-half, raising total yearly income significantly.
What is the average yearly salary?
Beginner welders average $33,000–$45,000 annually across industries.
Does pay depend on location?
Yes. States with oil, shipbuilding, or infrastructure work pay higher.
Can certifications raise starting pay?
Definitely. Certifications can push starting salaries closer to $45,000–$50,000.
Factors That Influence Entry Level Welder Pay
Several elements determine how much a new welder earns. These range from geographic differences to the type of welding performed.
What role does location play in pay?
Location is one of the biggest factors. Welders in states like Alaska or North Dakota may earn higher wages due to industrial demand.
Do industries pay differently?
Yes. Oil, gas, and shipyard welders often earn more than those in small repair shops.
Does education impact wages?
Formal training at trade schools or community colleges often leads to higher-paying jobs.
Are certifications important for beginners?
Yes. Entry level welders with AWS (American Welding Society) certifications are usually offered better pay.
Does union membership affect income?
Union welders often secure higher wages, better benefits, and safer working conditions.
Entry Level Welder Pay by State
Pay rates vary greatly depending on where you live. Urban areas and regions with heavy infrastructure demand pay more.
Which states pay the most?
Alaska, Hawaii, and North Dakota consistently rank among the highest-paying states for welders.
Which states pay the least?
States with lower industrial activity, such as Mississippi or Arkansas, often pay less.
Do cities pay more than rural areas?
Yes. Welders in metropolitan areas usually earn higher wages than those in rural shops.
Does cost of living affect wages?
Yes. Higher living costs in states like California mean wages are higher but expenses also rise.
Are relocation opportunities worth it?
For welders open to moving, high-paying states can boost income quickly.
Average Starting Pay by Industry
Different industries offer very different pay ranges, even at entry level.
Which industries pay the most for beginners?
Oil and gas, shipbuilding, and aerospace welding often pay top wages.
What about automotive welding?
Automotive welding pays moderately, often starting around $17 per hour.
Do construction jobs pay well?
Yes. Construction welders often earn $18–$22 per hour starting out.
Is manufacturing welding lower paid?
Yes. Manufacturing welders may start at $15–$17 per hour.
Can pipe welding offer better pay?
Even beginners in pipe welding may earn $22+ per hour if certified.
Certifications That Boost Entry Level Pay
Certifications can help a new welder stand out and secure higher starting pay.
Which certifications are most valuable?
AWS certifications like Certified Welder (CW) or Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) are highly respected.
Do employers pay more for certified welders?
Yes. Many employers offer a wage bump for certified skills.
Can entry level welders get advanced certifications?
Some advanced certifications require experience, but beginners can pursue basic ones.
Is on-the-job training enough?
While helpful, formal certification often leads to better opportunities.
Do certifications help with job security?
Yes. Certified welders are more competitive and less likely to face layoffs.
Entry Level Welder Salary Growth Potential
Income can rise quickly with experience, specializations, and relocation.
How much can welders earn after 2–3 years?
Pay often increases to $45,000–$55,000 annually with just a few years of experience.
Can specialized welders earn six figures?
Yes. Underwater welders, pipeline welders, and nuclear welders can make over $100,000 per year.
Do overtime opportunities increase with experience?
Yes. Experienced welders often handle more hours, boosting total pay.
Is job stability good for welders?
Yes. Welding is essential in multiple industries, offering strong stability.
How long does it take to double entry level wages?
With dedication, many welders double their starting pay within 5–7 years.
Benefits and Perks for Entry Level Welders
In addition to wages, many employers offer valuable benefits.
What common benefits do welders receive?
Health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave are common.
Do unions provide better benefits?
Yes. Union welders often secure stronger healthcare and pensions.
Are tool allowances included?
Some companies provide stipends for welding gear and safety tools.
Do apprenticeships offer benefits?
Yes. Many apprenticeships include partial benefits even for trainees.
Can welders get tuition reimbursement?
Some employers cover training or certification costs.
Tips to Increase Entry Level Welder Salary
New welders can take proactive steps to increase their income quickly.
How important is networking?
Networking with experienced welders can open doors to better-paying jobs.
Should welders relocate for pay?
Yes. Moving to high-demand states can significantly boost income.
Do side jobs help?
Freelance welding or small repair work can add extra income.
Is ongoing training valuable?
Yes. Continuous training helps welders move into higher-paying specialties.
Should welders aim for union jobs?
Union membership often ensures higher wages and better job security.
Conclusion
Entry level welders typically make $16–$22 per hour or $33,000–$45,000 annually, but income varies widely depending on industry, certifications, and location. With experience and additional training, welders can quickly move beyond entry level and earn significantly more.
For beginners, the key to success is combining strong foundational skills with ongoing training, certifications, and a willingness to explore high-demand industries. Welding offers not just a starting salary but a path to long-term financial growth and stability.
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.
