Welders, Cutters, Solderers & Brazers Salary in Kansas

Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in Kansas earn a median salary of $49,040 annually, or $23.58 per hour. Entry-level positions start around $37,920 (10th percentile), while experienced welders can earn up to $67,450 (90th percentile). The middle 50% of welders earn between $44,420 and $58,200. Pay varies significantly based on specialization, with underwater welders, pipeline welders, and those working in aerospace or oil and gas industries commanding premium wages. Union membership, particularly with organizations like the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers, can boost earnings by 15-20%. Metro areas like Wichita and Kansas City typically offer higher wages due to increased industrial activity and competition for skilled welders. The job market remains strong, driven by infrastructure projects, manufacturing growth, and an aging workforce creating openings. While Kansas wages are slightly below the national median of $51,000, the state's low cost of living (0.904 factor) means your purchasing power is actually equivalent to $54,248 nationally. With over 210 welding programs available across Kansas, there are solid pathways into this stable, well-paying trade.

Kansas offers multiple pathways to become a certified welder, with no state licensing required but industry certifications essential. Most welders start with a certificate program at one of Kansas's community colleges like Johnson County Community College, Kansas City Kansas Community College, or Hutchinson Community College. These 6-month to 2-year programs cost $3,000-$8,000 and cover SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and flux-cored welding processes. The American Welding Society (AWS) certification is industry-standard, with testing available at accredited facilities throughout Kansas. Many students pursue D1.1 Structural Steel certification, which opens doors to construction and fabrication jobs. Apprenticeships are available through local union halls, particularly IBEW Local 304 (Topeka) and Local 412 (Kansas City), offering 3-4 year programs combining classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Apprentices typically start at 40-50% of journeyman wages ($19,620-$24,520) with regular increases. Major employers like Spirit AeroSystems in Wichita, Cessna Aircraft, and various fabrication shops often provide company-sponsored training. For specialized fields like pipeline welding, additional certifications like API 1104 are valuable. Kansas's proximity to oil and gas operations in Oklahoma and Texas creates opportunities for traveling pipeline welders. Many welders also pursue continuing education through AWS seminars held regularly in Wichita and Kansas City to maintain certifications and learn new processes.

The $29,530 gap between Kansas's lowest-paid welders ($37,920) and highest earners ($67,450) primarily reflects specialization and experience levels. Entry-level welders in basic MIG welding positions at small fabrication shops typically earn at the 10th percentile, while those in the 90th percentile often possess specialized skills like certified underwater welding, aerospace welding, or pipeline work. Union membership significantly impacts earnings, with union welders often earning 15-25% more than non-union counterparts. Geographic location within Kansas matters - Wichita's aerospace industry and Kansas City's manufacturing sector offer premium wages compared to rural areas. The 75th percentile ($58,200) typically includes welders with 5+ years experience, multiple certifications (AWS D1.1, D1.5), and those working for major employers like Spirit AeroSystems or Koch Industries. Specialized welders working on pressure vessels, nuclear components, or structural steel for major construction projects command top wages. Overtime opportunities in industrial settings can push annual earnings well above base rates.