Median / Average Pay ($)
- $24.52 / hour (BLS.gov)
- $20.64 / hour (Talent.com)
- $22.26 / hour (ZipRecruiter.com)
- $23.28 / hour (Indeed.com)
Services Provided
- Metal Fabrication – Utilizing controlled heat to shape and cut raw materials for creating metal components or entire structures; also involves assembling individual components into a specific shape and structure or employing high-precision welding techniques (GTAW or gas tungsten arc welding) for thin metals.
- Structural – Attaching structural elements, such as girders, to buildings and any infrastructure requiring welding to create a solid piece; for example, outdoor construction often requires stick welding or shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) to reinforce the components of a structure, while arc and flux core welding are essential for construction of large vessels.
- Pipe – Welding pipes together to ensure they remain a single unit without leakage; commonly used in plumbing, industrial processing systems, and oil pipelines.
- Automotive and Machinery – Reinforcing vehicle components (e.g., frames), sealing cracks and other breaks, and welding heavy machinery; in production, MIG (GMAW) welding, also known as metal inert gas GMAW, is often necessary to maintain efficiency.
- Inspections – Evaluating welded materials to ensure stability and compliance with applicable safety regulations.