Marine welding is one of the most demanding—and lucrative—trades in the industrial world. From repairing hulls in dry dock to fusing pipelines on an oil rig, marine welders keep the global economy floating. But with high risk comes high reward. The question is: How much does a marine welder actually make?
The answer depends on where you work, your certifications, and how wet you are willing to get. In this guide, we break down the 2026 salary data for dockside, offshore, and underwater welders.
Marine Welder Salary Quick Guide:
Pay scales vary wildly based on location and risk. Here are the national averages for 2026.
| Job Title | Experience | Average Annual Pay | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Welder | 0 - 2 Years | $45,000 - $55,000 | $22 - $26 |
| Journeyman (Shipyard) | 3 - 5 Years | $60,000 - $85,000 | $29 - $41 |
| Offshore / Rig Welder | 5+ Years | $80,000 - $120,000+ | $40 - $60+ |
| Underwater Welder | Specialized | $100,000 - $200,000+ | Project Based |
What is Marine Welding?
Marine welding is a specialized field of welding that involves welding in marine environments.
It is different from other types of welding because of the unique challenges that come with working in aquatic environments. Marine welders work in shipyards, offshore platforms, and underwater environments.
Marine welding is a critical aspect of shipbuilding and repair, and it is essential to ensure the safety and structural integrity of marine vessels.
Marine welders use a variety of welding techniques, including gas welding, arc welding, and submerged arc welding.
They also use different welding materials, such as steel, aluminum, and other alloys.
Read related article: How Much Does a Welder Make: 2025-2026 Salary Guide
How Much Do Underwater Welders Make?
Source from: https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Marine-Welder-Salary (Sept. 2025-2026 Data)
The salary of an underwater welder is not one single number; it is a wide spectrum. Your earning potential is directly tied to factors like your experience, location, and the type of diving you perform. Here is a look at the typical salary ranges in 2025.
Entry Level Underwater Welder Salaries (0 to 3 years)
- Average Range: $40,000 to $60,000 per year.
- What to Expect: New welders often start with inland jobs on rivers, lakes, and dams. The work is crucial for building and repairing infrastructure but comes with a lower starting wage compared to offshore work. During this time, you will gain the foundational experience needed to progress.
Mid to Experienced Underwater Welder Salaries (4 to 9 years)
- Average Range: $60,000 to $150,000 per year.
- What to Expect: Once you have a few years of experience, your skills and confidence grow, leading to better-paying opportunities. You can move into offshore oil and gas or coastal construction, where the work is more complex and the pay is significantly higher.
Top Paying States for Marine Welders
Geography matters. Coastal hubs with active oil/gas or defense industries pay the most.
- Texas (Gulf Coast): High demand for oil rig fabrication.
- Virginia (Norfolk): Massive naval shipyard presence.
- California (San Diego): Defense and commercial shipping repairs.
- Louisiana: Offshore support and barge construction.
See Photo of Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Marine Welder Jobs
Source from: https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Marine-Welder-Salary (Sept. 2025-2026 Data)
Factors Influencing Marine Welders' Salaries
As a marine welder, your salary can vary depending on several factors.
Here are some of the factors that can influence your salary:
1. Geographic Location
Your geographic location can significantly affect your salary as a marine welder. For instance, marine welders in coastal areas may earn more than those in inland regions.
This is because coastal areas have a higher demand for marine welders due to the high concentration of marine-related industries.
2. Level of Experience
The level of experience you have as a marine welder can also influence your salary. Typically, entry-level marine welders earn less than those with several years of experience.
As you gain more knowledge and expertise, you become more valuable to employers, which can lead to better pay.
3. Certifications
Having certifications can also boost your salary as a marine welder. Certifications such as the American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welder or the AWS Certified Welding Inspector can demonstrate your expertise and proficiency in the field, making you more attractive to employers.
4. Type of Employment
The type of employment you have as a marine welder can also affect your salary. For example, offshore marine welders may earn more than those who work inland.
This is because offshore marine welding jobs often require more experience and come with more risks and challenges.
Also Read: Highest Paying Welding Jobs: Career Opportunities in the Industry
Comparing Inland and Offshore Marine Welder Salaries
Offshore Work: This involves working far out at sea on oil rigs, pipelines, and shipwrecks. It is demanding, often requiring long stints away from home. However, the pay is very high, with salaries usually exceeding $100,000.
Inland Work: This involves jobs in freshwater environments like lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. The work is steadier and less risky, but the pay is generally lower.
How to Increase Your Earnings as a Marine Welder
You can't demand top dollar with basic MIG skills. These are the certifications that unlock 6-figure salaries.
The baseline. Proves you can weld thick plate steel safely. Essential for any shipyard work.
The "Money Maker." Proves you can weld pipe in a fixed, difficult position. Mandatory for high-paying rig jobs.
For underwater welding, you need to be a certified diver first, welder second. This requires attending a specialized dive school.
Conclusion: Is an Underwater Welding Career Worth It?
So, is the potential for a high income in underwater welding worth the risks and demands of the job? For many, the answer is yes. It is a career that offers a unique combination of skill-based work, adventure, and financial reward.
While the physical toll and time away from home can be challenging, the earning potential and job satisfaction can be immense.
If you are a disciplined, skilled professional who thrives in challenging environments, a career in underwater welding could be one of the most lucrative and exciting paths you can take.
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FAQs About How Much Do Underwater Welders Make a Year
Here, we address some of the most common questions people ask when exploring how much underwater welders make.
How long does it take to become an underwater welder?
Becoming an underwater welder is a two step process. First, you must become a certified commercial diver, which takes about 6 to 12 months. After that, you need to become a certified welder, which can take an additional 6 months to a year. Many programs combine both certifications into one comprehensive course.
Is underwater welding a good career?
Yes, underwater welding can be a great career for the right person. It offers high pay and excellent job security. However, it is a very demanding and high risk job that requires extensive training, physical fitness, and a willingness to work in difficult conditions.
What factors affect an underwater welder's salary?
Several key factors determine a salary. These include your years of experience, your certifications, the type of diving you do (inland vs. offshore vs. saturation), and your geographic location. Jobs in major oil and gas hubs like the Gulf Coast pay significantly more.
Do underwater welders get paid hourly?
Yes, many underwater welders, especially those on specific projects, are paid an hourly rate. These rates can be very high, ranging from $20 to over $100 per hour, depending on the job's complexity and depth. Overtime and hazard pay can also significantly increase total earnings.
