Welding Jobs Available Now Across the United States
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Optimized Process Designs LLC
Rig Welder
Weld Action Company,Inc
CNC Machinist/Assembler
AC Corporation
Pipe Welder
Genesis Technical Staffing, Inc.
Pipe Welder
Matrix
Pipe Welder
Crete United
Pipe Welder
Matrix
Pipe Welder
ClearanceJobs
Senior Pipefitter/Pipe Welder Jobs
Matrix Service
IPTW Pipe Welder
Matrix Service
IPTW Pipe Welder
DiversityJobs Inc
Journeyman - PIPE/WELDER
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Welding Job Outlook in the United States
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 49,600 welding job openings are projected each year through 2033, driven primarily by the need to replace experienced workers retiring from the trade. Skilled welders remain in strong demand across manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and defense.
Projected Job Growth (2023 to 2033)
2%
Steady demand with strong replacement needs
Annual Job Openings
49,600
Average openings per year from growth and turnover
Median Annual Wage
$50,490
For welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers (May 2024)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers, updated 2024
Welding Specialties in Demand
Welding encompasses a wide range of processes, each suited to different materials, industries, and applications. Understanding which specialty aligns with your skills and career goals helps you target the right openings and command the right wage.
MIG Welder
Metal Inert Gas welding is the most widely used process in manufacturing and fabrication. MIG welders are in demand at auto plants, metal fabrication shops, and structural steel facilities.
TIG Welder
Tungsten Inert Gas welding requires a higher skill level and is used for precision work on stainless steel, aluminum, and exotic alloys in aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries.
Stick Welder: SMAW
Shielded Metal Arc Welding is used extensively in heavy construction, shipbuilding, and pipeline maintenance. Stick welders are highly valued for outdoor and field work.
Pipe Welder
Pipe welders work on pressurized systems in oil and gas, power generation, and water treatment plants. This specialty commands some of the highest wages in the welding trade.
Structural Welder
Join beams, columns, and steel components for bridges, buildings, and infrastructure projects. Structural welding positions are closely tied to the construction industry.
Underwater and Hyperbaric Welder
A highly specialized field combining commercial diving and welding for offshore platforms, ship hulls, and underwater pipelines. Among the highest paid welding roles in the country.
Welding Salaries by Specialty
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $50,490 for welders as of May 2024. However, earnings vary dramatically by specialty, industry, and location. Pipe welders and underwater welders consistently earn far above the median, while shop fabrication roles typically fall below it.
| Specialty | Typical Range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| MIG Welder | $44,000 to $58,000 | Varies by industry and location |
| TIG Welder | $50,000 to $70,000 | Higher for aerospace and precision work |
| Pipe Welder | $60,000 to $95,000 | Top earners in oil, gas, and power |
| Structural Welder | $52,000 to $72,000 | Infrastructure and heavy construction |
| Underwater Welder | $75,000 to $200,000+ | Highly specialized and hazardous duty pay |
| Welding Inspector (CWI) | $65,000 to $95,000 | AWS Certified Welding Inspector credential required |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024 data
Top Industries Hiring Welders
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industries employing the largest number of welders include manufacturing, construction, transportation equipment fabrication, and the oil and gas sector. Each offers distinct pay structures, working conditions, and career trajectories.
Manufacturing
Automotive, aerospace, heavy equipment, and consumer goods manufacturers are among the largest employers of welders in the United States
Construction
Structural steel erection, bridge fabrication, and commercial building construction drive sustained demand for certified structural welders
Oil, Gas, and Pipelines
Upstream drilling, midstream pipeline, and downstream refining operations employ large numbers of pipe welders and require strict certification compliance
Shipbuilding and Maritime
US Navy shipyards and commercial shipbuilders consistently rank among the top welding employers, with positions at facilities in Virginia, Mississippi, and Maine
Power Generation
Nuclear, natural gas, and renewable energy facilities require certified welders for pressure vessel work, boiler maintenance, and new plant construction
Welding Certifications That Increase Your Earning Power
Certification is one of the most direct ways to increase wages and access higher paying welding roles. The American Welding Society and major industry bodies issue credentials that are widely recognized by employers across all sectors.
AWS Certified Welder (CW)
American Welding Society
The most recognized performance qualification in the industry. Validates your ability to produce welds that meet specific code requirements. Required or preferred by most major employers.
AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
American Welding Society
Qualifies professionals to inspect welds for compliance with codes and standards. A CWI credential significantly increases earning potential and opens doors to quality assurance and supervisory roles.
API 1104 Pipeline Welding Certification
American Petroleum Institute
Required for welders working on oil and gas transmission pipelines. One of the most valuable credentials in the trade, particularly for those pursuing high paying pipe welding work.
Welding Safety and OSHA Requirements
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, welding is classified as a hazardous occupation. OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.252 establishes mandatory safety requirements for welding, cutting, and brazing operations in general industry. All workers are entitled to safe working conditions regardless of employment status.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, Welding, Cutting, and Brazing Standard 29 CFR 1910.252
Welding Career Progression
Welding offers a clear and well compensated career ladder. Workers who invest in certifications and specialty skills can progress from entry level helper to welding inspector or supervisor within a decade, often without requiring a four year degree.
Welding Helper or Apprentice
Starting outAssist experienced welders, learn safety procedures, and build foundational skills through a vocational program or employer sponsored apprenticeship
Welder (Journey Level)
1 to 3 yearsIndependently perform qualified welds in one or more processes, meet production standards, and begin earning industry certifications
Senior Welder or Lead Welder
3 to 7 yearsTrain junior staff, read complex blueprints, work on high value or safety critical applications, and pursue specialty certifications
Welding Inspector or Supervisor
7 to 12 yearsObtain CWI certification, oversee quality compliance, manage welding teams, and serve as the technical authority on welding procedures and code compliance
Tips for Landing a Welding Job
Get AWS Certified Before You Apply
Obtaining an AWS Certified Welder qualification through a local community college or technical school dramatically increases your hirability. Many employers require or prioritize CW certified candidates for positions above entry level.
Specify Your Processes and Positions
Welding job postings are highly specific. Clearly list the processes you are qualified in (MIG, TIG, Stick, Flux Core), the positions you can weld (1G through 6G), and the materials you have worked with. Vague resumes are filtered out quickly.
Target High Paying Sectors Early
Pipeline, shipbuilding, and power generation pay significantly more than general fabrication shops. If you are building your career, choosing your first employer strategically based on industry can accelerate your wage growth by years.
Consider Union Apprenticeships
The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers and the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters both offer apprenticeship programs that combine paid on the job training with classroom instruction and lead directly to union scale wages and benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Welding Jobs
What is the job outlook for welders in the United States?
How much do welders make per hour?
What certifications do welders need?
Is welding a dangerous job?
How do I become a welder without experience?
What is the difference between MIG and TIG welding?
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and is based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, and the American Welding Society. Salary ranges, certification requirements, and safety regulations are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with your state labor agency, the relevant certification body, or the hiring employer before applying.