How Much Do Certified Welders Make? 2024 Salary Statistics
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Certified welders play a crucial role in many fabrication and assembly works. Certified welders are qualified to work on different machinery, structures, and tools. It may seem easy because the process seems simple, but it requires much concentration and knowledge.
They use an arc welder to weld stainless steel, steel, aluminum, or other metals. Usually, certificates are awarded to those who finish training programs.
In this guide, we will look at the salary statistics for certified welders.
Who is a Certified Welder?
A certified welder is a person who has passed the certification exam for welding at several levels. Certified welders are also called Certified Welding Technicians. The American Welding Society administers certification exams for welders.
Certified welders are qualified to weld according to the American Welding Society’s standards. These certifications help them understand the importance of having the right tools and training for the welding job.
Also, certified welders are responsible for:
- Evaluating how safe it is for welders to start welding
- They also work in the manufacturing, aerospace, and construction industries
Average Certified Welder Salary
How much does a certified welder make? The average certified welder salary in the United States is $53,000 a year. These figures are dictated by BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and PayScale.
Most jobs in welding require at least a high school degree or equivalent training. However, some employers may want certified welders with specialized skills or experience. The average annual earnings of welders vary widely depending on the employer, but $50,000 per year is the average salary for most welding jobs.
How Much Does a Certified Welder Make in an Hour?
A certified welder can make from $20 to $35 an hour. Depending on the skill level, the hourly rate can be higher. Usually, a certified welder should have not less than ten years of formal education and ten months of practical experience.
How Much Does a Certified Welder Make in a Day?
Daily salary varies based on several factors such as the type of job and the amount of work done. A certified welder can earn $200 to $300 a day.
In addition, the pay rate per day varies depending on the location, experience, and education level. A certified welder with a college degree might earn $280, while one without a degree might earn only $150 per day.
Weekly Earnings for Certified Welders
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, a certified welder makes approximately $1,000 a week. The job pays well if done well, and there are plenty of opportunities for advancement within welding.
Monthly Earnings for Certified Welders
A certified welder makes an average of $4,000 per month. Most certified welders work full-time and do not receive benefits. Nevertheless, some opt for part-time work so they can spend more time with family.
Certified Welder Annual Salary
The average annual salary for a certified welder is $40,170. The wages include overtime, bonuses, and commissions. The annual salary of a welder with years of experience is $57,000.
This salary may vary depending on location and the amount of work done. A certified welder in a busy city may earn closer to $45,000 a year, while a welder in a small town may earn closer to $30,000.
Certified welders usually work in industrial settings, so their salaries are higher there than they would be in other industries.
6g Certified Welders Salary
A 6g certified welder is a welder who works in a production environment using a 6g welding machine. They are trained to operate a 6g welding machine well. 6g certified welders are certified through a training program.
The average annual salary for a 6g certified welder is about $66,000. It does not include benefits or bonuses. Most 6g certified welders work 50-60 hours a week and many of them work overtime. It is possible to earn more than $68,000 by working overtime but this depends on what type of work they do and how much time they spend doing it.
Do Certified Welders Make More Money?
Certified welders make more money than non-certified welders do. It is because they have greater access to tools and equipment. They also have better training. They are more likely to find employment, as they understand how to use various tools and equipment.
They also have more experience and knowledge to work in many industrial fields. There is no denying that the skills and training it takes to become a certified welder are extensive, but the rewards are far greater than the investment.
Welders travel the world in their duties. They assist with construction projects, both small and major. Certified welders assist municipalities with their infrastructure needs. They also help private property owners with their construction projects. Most importantly, they educate thousands of people on how to make a living as welders.
Selected Countries and How Much Certified Welders Make
Every year, we see a slightly different pool of certified welders in the industry. It changes the average hourly wage of certified welders each month. Below is a brief look at how much certified welders make in a few selected countries.
| COUNTRY | AVERAGE SALARY (PER YEAR) | CERTIFIED WELDERS’ SALARY IN US DOLLARS |
| Canada | 45,907 CAD | $37,237.23 |
| Australia | 55,000 AUD | $41,223.88 |
| United Kingdom | 22,050 GBP | $30,432.09 |
| Germany | 40,000 EUR | $46,569.20 |
| France | 46,000 EUR | $53,554.58 |
How Do You Become a Certified Welder?
If you would like to become a certified welder, there is a path to follow to achieve your dream. Below are the basics:
1. Acquire a High School Diploma
The first step to becoming a certified welder is earning a high school diploma. It is a crucial step because you will not be eligible to work in the welding industry without a high school diploma.
Besides, it may be challenging to find a welding job without a high school diploma. Once you have a high school diploma, the next step is to enroll in a welding training program.
2. Take Part in an Apprenticeship
The best way to become a welder is to participate in a welding apprenticeship program. Many welding schools offer classes to help prepare you for the certification exam. Each school has its requirements for eligibility and acceptance. The requirements for certification can vary based on where you live.
It entails completing an 8-week course taught by a qualified teacher. After that, you will have to pass a series of written and practical tests, after which you will be awarded the welder’s license.
An apprenticeship is a cooperative effort between the school, the welder, and the general contractor. The purpose of the apprenticeship is to make sure that you meet all the necessary qualifications.
3. Get a Welding Certificate or Degree
A welding certificate or degree is proof of your ability to work as a welder. It is how employers can evaluate your qualifications and determine if you are a certified welder. Getting a certification in welding can be the first step towards a successful career in the welding industry.
To complete a certification process, you must complete 120 hours of training in a welding school. You will learn several skills, such as welding techniques and safety procedures about welding equipment.
Final Thoughts
Certified welders indeed make better wages compared to their counterparts. But wages are only part of the equation. When it comes to job security, benefits, and overall job satisfaction, a certified welder is in a better position. In addition, a certified welder will have better access to training, education, and other resources to advance in their careers and personal lives.
The salary of a certified welder depends on many factors as seen such as welding position and location of work as well as industry. Also, a certified welder’s salary depends on the amount of experience in a particular field. Generally, certified welders make quite a killing annually as is evident above.
