Welders, Cutters, Solderers & Brazers Salary in Virginia

Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in Virginia earn a median annual salary of $57,350, or $27.57 per hour – significantly above the national median of $51,000. Entry-level positions start around $39,660 (10th percentile), while experienced professionals can earn up to $78,000 (90th percentile). The middle 50% of workers earn between $47,700 and $64,010 annually. Pay varies considerably based on specialization, with underwater welders, pipeline welders, and aerospace welders commanding premium rates. Union membership, particularly in shipbuilding and construction, can boost earnings by 15-25%. Virginia's strong manufacturing base, including shipbuilding in Newport News and aerospace in northern Virginia, drives solid demand. The state's proximity to major infrastructure projects and military contracts provides steady work opportunities. With Virginia's cost of living factor at 1.035, the effective purchasing power equals about $55,411 nationally – making this a financially attractive career path in the state.

Virginia offers multiple pathways to become a welder without requiring state licensing. Start with a welding certificate program at institutions like Northern Virginia Community College, Tidewater Community College, or Virginia Western Community College – programs typically run 6 months to 2 years. Many Virginia employers partner with these schools for direct hiring pipelines. The state's robust apprenticeship programs, particularly through Newport News Shipbuilding (the state's largest private employer) and local IBEW chapters, combine classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training. Apprentices typically earn 40-60% of journeyman wages, starting around $16-22 per hour and progressing over 3-4 years. While no state license is required, AWS (American Welding Society) certifications are essential – Virginia has numerous testing facilities statewide. Key certifications include Structural Welding (D1.1) for construction work and Naval certifications for shipyard positions. The Virginia Employment Commission actively promotes welding careers through workforce development programs, offering training grants and job placement assistance. Military veterans receive additional support through specialized programs at Norfolk Naval Shipyard and other defense contractors, leveraging Virginia's significant military presence for career transitions.

The $38,340 gap between Virginia's lowest earners ($39,660) and highest earners ($78,000) reflects significant variation in specialization and experience. Entry-level welders in general fabrication typically occupy the 10th percentile range, while the 90th percentile includes specialized professionals in shipbuilding, aerospace, and underwater welding. The 25th to 75th percentile range ($47,700-$64,010) represents most journeyman welders with 2-10 years experience. Geographic location within Virginia significantly impacts earnings – northern Virginia's aerospace and federal contracting work pays premium rates, while Hampton Roads' massive shipbuilding industry (Newport News Shipbuilding employs over 25,000) offers union wages and overtime opportunities. Pipeline welders working on interstate projects can reach the upper percentiles through travel premiums and specialized certifications. Union membership, particularly in construction and shipbuilding, consistently pushes wages toward the 75th percentile or higher. Industry matters tremendously – manufacturing averages lower than construction, which averages lower than specialized industrial applications.