Why Does Welding Pay So Little
Welding pays relatively low because starting wages in metal fab shops range from $16 to $18 per hour, with the median salary for welders in 2018 being $41,380 per year.
However, factors such as a projected shortage of skilled welders by 2022 and companies like Amerequip Corp.
increasing wages to attract and retain workers have forced welding wages to increase.
Additionally, the strong job market with a high quit rate indicates that workers can find higher-paying positions elsewhere.
Geographic location and specialized welding skills also play a role in determining wages.
Overall, while welding pay may be low initially, experience, specialized skills, and job market conditions can lead to higher earnings.
Did You Know?
1. In the early 1900s, welders were paid significantly more than other skilled tradespeople due to the dangerous nature of the work and the high demand for welders during the Industrial Revolution.
2. Welding pay saw a decline in the 1960s due to the introduction of automated welding machines that could replace human welders, reducing the demand for manual welding skills and subsequently lowering wages.
3. Despite the lower pay scale, some specialized welding fields, such as underwater welding or aerospace welding, still offer higher salaries due to the higher level of expertise and risk involved.
4. Welding pay varies greatly depending on the industry and location. For example, welders in the oil and gas industry or in nuclear power plant construction tend to earn higher wages compared to those in the manufacturing or construction sectors.
5. Welding pay rates can be influenced by the level of certification. Certified welders who possess additional qualifications, such as advanced training or specialized certifications, often earn higher wages compared to non-certified welders.
Starting Wages In The Welding Industry
In the welding industry, starting wages for entry-level positions in metal fab shops typically range from $16 to $18 per hour. Hobby Lobby, known for its arts and crafts supplies, pays their welders around $18.50 per hour. These wages may seem relatively low considering the technical skills and expertise required in the welding profession. However, it is essential to understand the various factors that influence welding pay.
Factors Influencing Welding Pay
One of the main factors influencing welding pay is the projected shortage of skilled welders the industry is expected to face in the coming years. By 2022, it is estimated that there will be a shortage of over 450,000 skilled welders. In 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 425,000 welding jobs. The demand for welders is evident, yet wages remain relatively stagnant.
Furthermore, experience plays a significant role in determining a welder’s salary. Companies often offer higher wages to experienced welders as they are generally more efficient and produce higher-quality work. Additionally, the strong job market and high quit rate in the welding industry indicate that workers have the ability to find higher-paying positions elsewhere.
However, there have been some positive signs in recent years. In 2019, a survey revealed that 43% of companies pay entry-level welders more than $17 per hour. Companies like Amerequip Corp. have also increased wages to attract and retain skilled workers. Other external factors, such as Amazon distribution centers and the rise of the $15 minimum wage, have forced welding wages to rise in certain regions.
- Projected shortage of over 450,000 skilled welders by 2022
- Companies offer higher wages to experienced welders
- Strong job market and high quit rate indicate higher-paying positions available
- 43% of companies pay entry-level welders more than $17 per hour
- Amerequip Corp. increases wages to attract and retain skilled workers
- External factors like Amazon distribution centers and the rise of the $15 minimum wage have forced welding wages to rise in certain regions.
Regional Variations In Welding Wages
Welding pay can vary significantly depending on the job and location. Geographic location plays a crucial role in determining wages, with places like Alaska and North Dakota offering higher hourly wages for welders due to the demand for their skills in sectors like oil and gas. In contrast, other regions may offer comparatively lower wages due to lesser demand or lower living standards.
It is essential to note that the median salary for welders in 2018 was $41,380 per year. However, specialized welding skills, such as pipeline work, can offer higher wages. Code welders in the metal fabricating industry, for example, have a median salary of $53,000. Therefore, while starting wages may appear low, there are opportunities for welders to increase their earning potential through specialization and experience.
Specialized Welding Skills And Higher Wages
Specialized welding skills are highly valued in the industry and often come with higher wages. For example, graduates from welding schools who have received specialized training can earn up to $30 to $35 per hour. These individuals possess in-demand skills that are essential for specific sectors, such as offshore welding or aerospace welding.
Another advantage of having specialized welding skills is the increased likelihood of remaining employed during economic downturns. Industries that require specialized welding skills may continue to hire and pay well even when other sectors are experiencing a decline.
Opportunities For Career Advancement In The Welding Industry
While starting wages in the welding industry may be modest, there are ample opportunities for career advancement. Employers in the welding industry value punctuality, intellectual curiosity, and teamwork skills, and often promote skilled workers to shop managers or foremen positions. By demonstrating dedication and continuously upgrading their skills, welders can progress to higher-paying roles within their organizations.
While starting wages for welding jobs may be relatively low, there are several factors at play. These include the projected shortage of skilled welders, the influence of experience on pay scales, regional variations in demand and living standards, and the value of specialized welding skills. Despite these challenges, the welding industry offers opportunities for career growth and higher earning potential through experience, specialization, and dedication to professional development.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What purpose of welding is highest paying?
The highest paying purpose of welding is in the aerospace industry. Aerospace welders are responsible for welding intricate and complex components used in the construction of aircraft and spacecraft. Due to the high level of precision and required expertise, aerospace welding commands a higher salary. In addition, the demand for skilled aerospace welders is constantly increasing as new developments and advancements are made in the aerospace industry. With an average salary of $77,000 per year for oil rig welders, aerospace welding offers even higher remuneration opportunities.
What are the disadvantages of welding as a career?
Despite the many benefits that come with a career in welding, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider. One significant drawback is the exposure to various workplace hazards such as burns, eye discomfort, and potential exposure to hazardous materials. Additionally, the physical demands of the job, including working in tight spaces and adverse weather conditions, can be physically strenuous and uncomfortable.
Is welding a long term career?
Welding can indeed be a long-term career choice for those seeking stability and growth. With the demand for welding professionals on the rise, there are numerous opportunities for welders to find secure and well-paying jobs. Furthermore, the growing number of welding careers indicates a promising future for those in the field. As industries continue to evolve and advance, the skills of a welder will remain essential, ensuring a long-lasting career path in the field.
Notably, while some welding careers may offer more secure paths, the overall trend of growth in the welding industry provides a favorable environment for long-term success. Welders can take advantage of this growth by continuously updating their skills and adapting to emerging technologies. With the increasing demand for welding services in various industries, those who choose welding as a career can have confidence in its potential for long-term job stability and professional development.
Is welding a stressful career?
Welding can indeed be a demanding profession, which can contribute to a certain amount of stress. With the need for precision and meeting tight deadlines, welders face the pressure to deliver high-quality work consistently. The mental and physical demands of the job can lead to stress, but for those who thrive in challenging environments, welding can also be an exciting and fulfilling career. Ultimately, the stress level can vary depending on individual circumstances and how effectively welders manage their workload and maintain a healthy work-life balance.