The welding sector has seen a steady increase in wages, with the median annual salary for welders, cutters, solderers and brazers reaching $48,940 in May 2023, according to the latest labor data for the United States.
This median wage represents the midpoint, where half of the workers earned more and half earned less. The lowest 10% of workers in this field earned under $36,830, while the top 10% earned more than $72,970, showcasing the potential for higher income with skill and experience.
Wages for welding professionals also varied depending on the industry. Those working in specialty trade contracting saw the highest median annual wage at $53,250. Workers in the repair and maintenance sector earned $50,610, while those in manufacturing earned a median of $48,110.
Factors such as experience, skill level, and company size greatly influence wages in the welding field. Most welders work full-time, with many exceeding 40-hour work weeks. Due to the high demand for around-the-clock production in industries like manufacturing, workers often find themselves on evening or weekend shifts, with firms operating 8- to 12-hour shifts.
The wage increase highlights the growing opportunities and demand in the welding industry, offering lucrative prospects for skilled professionals.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
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