Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters Salary 2025: $47,920 Median, -9% Job Decline
The median annual wage for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders is $47,920, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $23 per hour. The middle 50% earn between $36,860 and $66,540, with the top 10% breaking $66,540. But the career is shrinking: employment is projected to decline 9% from 2024 to 2034, with about 3,200 openings per year due mostly to replacement needs.
How much Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $47,920, with a mean wage of $50,220. Half of workers earn between $36,860 (10th percentile) and $66,540 (90th percentile).
Pay varies significantly by industry and experience. Entry-level positions often start near the 10th percentile, while seasoned operators in high-wage states can top $70,000.
- Median annual wage: $47,920
- Mean annual wage: $50,220 (~$23/hour)
- 10th percentile: $36,860
- 90th percentile: $66,540
Pay by state
Where you live makes a big difference. Arizona pays the most, with an average annual wage of $70,150. Alaska comes next at $62,700, followed by Washington ($58,990), Illinois ($58,840), and Oregon ($58,650). On the lower end, Alabama averages $40,050, Mississippi $37,390, and Montana $35,670.
How to become Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tender
Most workers enter this occupation with a high school diploma or equivalent, then receive on-the-job training. Some attend technical schools or community colleges for welding or soldering certificates, which can boost hiring prospects.
- High school diploma or GED required
- On-the-job training typical (a few months to a year)
- Vocational or trade school certificate in welding or metal fabrication can help
- Optional certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS) may improve advancement
- No state license required
Job outlook
Demand is cooling. The BLS projects a 9% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034 — losing about 3,000 jobs over the decade. Automation and imports are cutting into U.S. manufacturing roles. Still, around 3,200 openings per year will arise as workers retire or leave the field. The best opportunities will be for those with the strongest welding skills and certification.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly pay for Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters?
The mean hourly wage is about $23 per hour. Median hourly pay is roughly $23.04.
What states pay the most for this job?
Arizona ($70,150), Alaska ($62,700), Washington ($58,990), Illinois ($58,840), and Oregon ($58,650) are the top-paying states.
Is welding machine setter a dying career?
Employment is projected to shrink 9% by 2034, so the number of jobs will decline. However, about 3,200 openings per year will still exist due to retirements and turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders data.