Welding jobs in Washington: Washington State has built a strong reputation as a center for manufacturing, construction, aerospace, shipbuilding, and infrastructure development—all industries where skilled welders are essential. From coastal shipyards and urban construction sites to rural fabrication shops and advanced aerospace facilities, welding jobs in Washington offer steady demand, competitive pay, and clear paths for long-term career growth. Whether you are entering the trade for the first time or looking to advance your welding career, Washington provides a wide range of opportunities in USA across experience levels.
Key Takeaways
- Washington offers consistent demand for welders across construction, aerospace, shipbuilding, and manufacturing
- Certified and specialized welders earn significantly higher wages than entry-level workers
- Union and government-backed projects provide strong job security and benefits
- Urban areas like Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane offer higher pay, while rural areas provide steady long-term roles
- Career growth is strong for welders who pursue advanced certifications and safety training
Why Welding Jobs Are in High Demand in Washington
Washington’s economy relies heavily on industries that require skilled metal fabrication and structural welding. Large-scale infrastructure projects, commercial construction, renewable energy expansion, and defense-related manufacturing continue to drive hiring across the state.
The presence of major aerospace and maritime employers creates year-round demand for welders who can meet strict quality and safety standards. In addition, many experienced welders are reaching retirement age, opening doors for new workers to enter the trade and move up quickly.
Major Industries Hiring Welders in Washington
Construction and Infrastructure
Construction remains one of the largest employers of welders in Washington. Projects range from high-rise buildings and bridges to highways, transit systems, and industrial plants.
Common construction welding roles include:
- Structural welders
- Pipe welders
- Ironworkers with welding certification
- Maintenance welders for commercial sites
These jobs often offer overtime pay and long-term contracts on major projects.
Aerospace Manufacturing
Washington is a global leader in aerospace manufacturing. Aircraft production and component fabrication require highly skilled welders who can work with aluminum, titanium, and advanced alloys.
Aerospace welding jobs include:
- TIG welders for precision components
- Fabrication welders
- Quality-controlled assembly welders
- Aerospace maintenance welders
These roles typically offer higher wages and strong benefits.
Shipbuilding and Maritime Welding
Coastal cities and port towns rely on shipyards and marine repair facilities. Maritime welding involves heavy-duty fabrication and repair work on ships, barges, and offshore equipment.
Maritime welding positions include:
- Shipyard welders
- Marine pipe welders
- Hull and structural welders
- Repair and maintenance welders
This sector often provides union-backed jobs with excellent benefits.
Manufacturing and Fabrication
Manufacturing facilities across Washington hire welders to produce machinery, tools, agricultural equipment, and metal products.
Typical roles include:
- MIG and TIG welders
- Fabrication technicians
- Production welders
- Quality inspection welders
These positions offer stable schedules and opportunities to develop specialized skills.
Energy and Utilities
Renewable energy projects and utility infrastructure rely on welders for installation and maintenance work. This includes wind energy, hydroelectric facilities, and power plants.
Types of Welding Jobs in Washington
Welding careers in Washington span a wide range of skill levels:
- Entry-level welders – Basic fabrication and production welding
- Certified welders – Structural, pipe, or code-compliant welding
- Specialty welders – Aerospace, underwater, or robotic welding
- Welding inspectors – Quality control and safety compliance
- Welding supervisors – Project oversight and team leadership
Each role offers increasing responsibility and earning potential.
Average Salaries for Welding Jobs in Washington
Welding wages in Washington are among the highest in the country due to strong union presence and industry demand.
Estimated salary ranges include:
- Entry-level welders: $40,000–$55,000 per year
- Experienced welders: $60,000–$85,000 per year
- Specialized or certified welders: $90,000–$120,000+ per year
Overtime, shift differentials, and project bonuses can significantly increase total earnings.
Top Cities for Welding Jobs in Washington
Seattle
Seattle offers high-paying welding roles in construction, aerospace, and shipbuilding. Competition is stronger, but wages and benefits are among the best.
Tacoma
Tacoma’s industrial base supports shipyards, manufacturing plants, and logistics facilities that rely heavily on welders.
Spokane
Spokane provides steady demand for welders in manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure maintenance with a lower cost of living.
Everett
Everett is a major hub for aerospace welding and fabrication roles.
Vancouver
Southern Washington supports industrial manufacturing and energy-related welding jobs.
Certifications and Training for Washington Welders
Employers prefer welders with recognized certifications and formal training.
Common credentials include:
- AWS welding certifications
- Structural welding certification
- Pipe welding certification
- OSHA safety training
Trade schools, community colleges, and apprenticeship programs across Washington offer pathways into the profession.
Union vs Non-Union Welding Jobs
Union welding jobs often provide higher wages, healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and job protections. Non-union roles may offer more flexibility and faster hiring, depending on the employer.
Both options can lead to successful careers depending on individual goals.
Entry-Level Welding Jobs and Apprenticeships
Washington offers many apprenticeship programs that allow new welders to earn while learning. These programs combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training.
Entry-level roles are ideal for individuals transitioning from other trades or starting their careers.
Skills Employers Look for in Welders
Successful welders demonstrate:
- Strong attention to detail
- Knowledge of welding codes and blueprints
- Physical stamina and safety awareness
- Problem-solving skills
- Reliability and teamwork
Developing these skills improves job security and advancement opportunities.
Job Outlook and Future Growth
The long-term outlook for welding jobs in Washington remains positive. Infrastructure investment, renewable energy expansion, and manufacturing growth continue to fuel demand.
Welders who pursue advanced certifications and adapt to new technologies, such as automated welding systems, will remain highly competitive.
How to Find Welding Jobs in Washington
Effective job search strategies include:
- Trade-specific job boards
- Union hiring halls
- Apprenticeship programs
- Local fabrication shops and contractors
- Networking within the skilled trades community
Maintaining an updated resume and certification record is essential.
Final Thoughts
Welding jobs in Washington offer stability, strong earning potential, and clear advancement paths. With demand spread across multiple industries, welders can choose roles that match their interests, skills, and lifestyle. By investing in training, certifications, and safety knowledge, professionals can build long-lasting careers in one of the country’s most rewarding skilled trades markets.
FAQs
Are welding jobs in Washington in demand?
Yes, demand remains strong due to construction, aerospace, and infrastructure projects.
What certifications do Washington welders need?
AWS and industry-specific certifications are highly valued by employers.
Do welding jobs in Washington pay well?
Yes, wages are above the national average, especially for certified welders.
Are union welding jobs better than non-union jobs?
Union jobs often provide higher pay and benefits, while non-union roles offer flexibility.
Can beginners find welding jobs in Washington?
Yes, apprenticeships and entry-level roles provide strong starting points for new welders.