- Welders across the United States took in an average annual salary of $36,630 in 2009, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This national figure does not include benefits, which vary and may include per-piece bonuses, overtime, sick and vacation leave, retirement investment accounts, health insurance, dental insurance and mental health insurance. Welders who join unions may also have additional benefits.
- Welders employed by one of the BLS' top-paying industries for 2009 earned at significantly higher rates than their colleagues. The BLS' highest-paying industry for welders in 2009 was spectator sports, paying almost double the national average salary at an annual mean wage of $61,830. Natural gas distribution also paid considerably higher salaries with an annual mean wage of $55,770. Paper mills, at $54,640 and the electric power distribution industries and natural gas pipeline industries, both paying $54,150, were also above the median.
- Welders learn the skills required to earn their salaries and benefits through a number of training options. Community colleges and technical schools offer certificate, diploma and associate's degree programs in welding (approximately six months to two years total). Prospective welders may also achieve certification from the American Welding Society, which offers certifications such as Certified Welding Inspector, Certified Robotic Arc Welding, Certified Welding Engineer, Certified Welder and Certified Welding Fabricator.
- Those interested in tapping into the salary and benefits associated with the welding profession may find difficulty securing a position. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a slight decline in employment in the field, a drop of 2 percent or a loss of approximately 10,500 jobs through 2018.
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