Welding is a valuable skill set to have in manufacturing industries, particularly the automotive industry. Typically, if you are a welder by trade, you are going to get paid hourly. This usually turns out to be in the welder’s favor as much of the work requires overtime and long hours. The most basic, beginner entry-level welder will earn between $10 and $13 an hour, but this has the potential to be much more. The 2008 industry average welder salary, according to Indeed.com, was $37,000 a year.
Welders with five years of experience under their belt make an average of $15.50 an hour, and those who work on contract and are self-employed make an average of between $18 and $20 an hour. How much you make is often dictated by the industry you are in as well. For instance, if you area a specialty arc welder in the automotive industry, you have the potential to earn up to between $49,000 and $56,000 each year. With years of experience under your belt, you can present yourself as a rare and special commodity in the manufacturing business.
To learn more about welders and for more automotive FAQs, be sure to visit Eastwood.com.