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What is the pay as a beginner welder ?
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Tim’s Answer
Hi Laila!
Welding can be a lucrative career, with your earnings largely depending on where you're based and your level of expertise. Generally, manufacturing jobs that need welders might not pay as much as those that require specialized skills, like pipe welding or sanitary welding for food production, and are often on a contract basis.
Remember, salaries can vary based on location due to differences in the cost of living. For instance, you might earn more in the northern parts of the country compared to the south and midwest. If you're just starting out in welding or have recently graduated from a welding school, you might find yourself in a manufacturing plant making vehicles or equipment. These jobs usually start at around $15-20 per hour, especially for MIG welding roles. However, if you have more experience with stick or TIG welding, you could see a significant increase in your pay.
In my own experience, TIG welding, particularly pipe welding, tends to offer some of the highest wages. But if you're just starting out, you can expect to earn around $15-20 per hour. My first welding job was in 2006 with Great Dane Trailers, where I started at $12.50 per hour. After four years, just before the plant closed, I was earning $22 per hour at 22 years old. It was good money at the time. These days, I've seen the same company advertising welding jobs at $20-22 per hour. I earn much more now, but as a beginner, that's a great wage to gain experience and develop your skills as a welder. Best of luck on your journey!
Browse job boards, etc
Consider attending a welding school or technical college to get certified
Welding can be a lucrative career, with your earnings largely depending on where you're based and your level of expertise. Generally, manufacturing jobs that need welders might not pay as much as those that require specialized skills, like pipe welding or sanitary welding for food production, and are often on a contract basis.
Remember, salaries can vary based on location due to differences in the cost of living. For instance, you might earn more in the northern parts of the country compared to the south and midwest. If you're just starting out in welding or have recently graduated from a welding school, you might find yourself in a manufacturing plant making vehicles or equipment. These jobs usually start at around $15-20 per hour, especially for MIG welding roles. However, if you have more experience with stick or TIG welding, you could see a significant increase in your pay.
In my own experience, TIG welding, particularly pipe welding, tends to offer some of the highest wages. But if you're just starting out, you can expect to earn around $15-20 per hour. My first welding job was in 2006 with Great Dane Trailers, where I started at $12.50 per hour. After four years, just before the plant closed, I was earning $22 per hour at 22 years old. It was good money at the time. These days, I've seen the same company advertising welding jobs at $20-22 per hour. I earn much more now, but as a beginner, that's a great wage to gain experience and develop your skills as a welder. Best of luck on your journey!
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Mark’s Answer
Depending on the area, the typical hourly rate ranges from $12 to $24, and it can go higher with your skill level. Given that welding isn't a widely chosen career path, you're likely to be profitable in it as you gain experience,. So, don't hesitate, seize the opportunity!