If you’ve ever wondered how much an underwater welder makes per month, you’re not alone. This career is known for offering some of the highest welding salaries in the world, but it also comes with its fair share of risks.
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Underwater welding combines two highly specialized skills—welding and commercial diving. It’s not your typical welding job where you work in a shop or on a construction site. Instead, underwater welders repair ships, pipelines, and offshore structures deep beneath the ocean’s surface.
I’ve spent years in the welding industry, and I can tell you that underwater welding isn’t for everyone. But for those who can handle the pressure (literally and figuratively), the rewards are incredible.
I’ll break down the monthly salary of an underwater welder, what factors affect their earnings, and how you can maximize your income in this field.
How Much Does an Underwater Welder Make Per Month?
Underwater welders can make anywhere from $3,000 to over $25,000 per month depending on their experience, certifications, job location, and the type of work they do.
Here’s a general breakdown of monthly salary expectations:
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage | Monthly Salary Estimate | Annual Salary Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $15 – $30 | $3,000 – $6,000 | $36,000 – $72,000 |
| Mid-Level | $30 – $60 | $6,000 – $12,000 | $72,000 – $144,000 |
| Experienced | $60 – $100+ | $12,000 – $25,000+ | $144,000 – $300,000+ |
| Deep-Sea / Saturation Welders | $100 – $300+ | $20,000 – $50,000+ | $250,000 – $500,000+ |
Saturation welders, who work at extreme depths, are among the highest-paid welders in the world. These professionals work in high-risk environments and undergo specialized training to perform deep-sea welding.
Factors That Affect an Underwater Welder’s Salary
Several factors determine how much an underwater welder can make per month. Let’s go through the most important ones.
Experience Level
Like any skilled trade, experience plays a huge role in determining salary. Entry-level underwater welders start at lower pay rates, but as they gain experience, their earnings increase significantly.
- Beginners usually start around $3,000 to $6,000 per month.
- Experienced welders can make over $12,000 per month.
- Deep-sea welders with years of experience can earn over $25,000 per month.
Certifications and Training
Underwater welding requires a combination of commercial diving and welding certifications. The more certifications you have, the more job opportunities you’ll get, leading to higher pay.
Some of the most important certifications include:
- Commercial Diving Certification – Required for all underwater welders.
- AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) – Enhances job opportunities and pay.
- ADC (Association of Diving Contractors) Certification – Helps qualify for high-paying offshore jobs.
- Saturation Diving Certification – Required for deep-sea welding jobs, which pay the highest salaries.
Job Location
Where you work also affects how much you make. Some locations have a higher demand for underwater welders, leading to better pay.
Here are some of the highest-paying locations for underwater welders:
- Gulf of Mexico – High demand due to offshore oil rigs.
- North Sea (UK and Norway) – Cold, dangerous conditions but high pay.
- Middle East – Strong demand for welding in oil and gas industries.
- Australia – Large offshore oil and shipbuilding industries.
- United States (Alaska, Louisiana, Texas, California) – Plenty of opportunities in ship repair, offshore drilling, and pipeline construction.
Industry and Job Type
Not all underwater welding jobs pay the same. Some industries offer significantly higher wages than others.
- Offshore Oil Rig Welding – One of the highest-paying underwater welding jobs, often exceeding $20,000 per month.
- Ship Repair and Maintenance – More stable but lower-paying compared to offshore jobs.
- Pipeline Construction – Pays well, especially in remote locations.
- Bridge and Dam Repair – Steady work but lower pay compared to offshore welding.
Depth and Risk Level
The deeper a welder works, the more money they can make. Saturation divers, who work at depths greater than 300 feet, can make over $50,000 per month.
Jobs that involve dangerous conditions, such as welding in extreme cold or near high-pressure gas lines, also come with higher salaries.
Perks and Challenges of Underwater Welding
Perks of the Job
- High Pay: One of the highest-paying welding careers.
- Exciting Work: Not your typical welding job; it’s adventurous and challenging.
- Travel Opportunities: Many jobs require traveling to different locations.
- Job Demand: Skilled underwater welders are always in demand.
Challenges of the Job
- Risky Work Environment: Working underwater comes with hazards like drowning, decompression sickness, and equipment failures.
- Time Away from Home: Many jobs require long stays offshore or in remote locations.
- Physical and Mental Demands: Requires excellent physical fitness and mental focus.
How to Become an Underwater Welder
If you’re serious about pursuing a career in underwater welding, here’s how to get started:
- Earn a High School Diploma or GED – This is the minimum education requirement.
- Complete a Welding Program – Learn basic welding skills at a technical school or community college.
- Get Certified in Commercial Diving – Attend a commercial diving school to become a certified diver.
- Obtain Underwater Welding Certification – Some diving schools offer underwater welding courses.
- Gain Experience in Land-Based Welding – Before working underwater, build experience as a topside welder.
- Apply for Underwater Welding Jobs – Look for openings in offshore oil rigs, shipyards, and construction projects.
Conclusion
Underwater welding is one of the most lucrative and exciting careers in the welding industry. While it’s not an easy job, the financial rewards make it worth it for those willing to take on the challenge.
On average, underwater welders make $3,000 to $25,000 per month, depending on experience, location, and job type. Those who specialize in deep-sea welding can earn even more, with some salaries reaching over $50,000 per month.
If you’re interested in this career, focus on getting the right training and certifications. The better your skills and qualifications, the higher your earning potential. It’s a demanding field, but for those who are passionate about welding and adventure, it’s one of the best-paying jobs out there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much do entry-level underwater welders make per month?
Entry-level underwater welders usually make between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on location and employer.
What is the highest-paying underwater welding job?
Saturation welding is the highest-paying underwater welding job, with salaries exceeding $50,000 per month.
Do underwater welders get paid overtime?
Yes, many underwater welders receive overtime pay, hazard pay, and bonuses for working in extreme conditions.
How long do underwater welders work?
Work schedules vary, but many underwater welders work four to six weeks on and then have two to four weeks off.
Is underwater welding dangerous?
Yes, it’s considered one of the most dangerous welding jobs. Risks include drowning, decompression sickness, equipment failure, and hypothermia.
If you’re thinking about becoming an underwater welder, this guide has answered your questions. If you need more details, feel free to ask. Stay safe and happy welding!
