Underwater Welding Salary: The Complete Guide
Underwater welding salary is one of the most searched topics among trades and maritime careers. Underwater welders—also known as commercial diver welders—combine specialized diving skills with advanced welding, making it one of the most challenging and lucrative skilled trades.
Average Underwater Welding Salary in 2025
As of 2025, the average underwater welder in the United States earns between $75,000 and $120,000 per year, with top professionals exceeding $150,000. Hourly rates range from $35 to $70 depending on experience, depth of dives, and risk level.
| Level | Annual Salary Range | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $55,000 - $75,000 | $27 - $36 |
| Mid-Level | $80,000 - $110,000 | $38 - $55 |
| Experienced | $120,000 - $150,000+ | $60 - $75 |
These figures include inland (ports, bridges, dams) and offshore (oil rigs, deep sea) welding jobs.
Inland vs Offshore Pay
Offshore underwater welding typically pays more due to increased risk, remote locations, and longer shifts. Offshore welders on oil rigs or deep-sea construction can earn $120,000–$200,000 annually with overtime and hazard bonuses.
Inland underwater welding jobs, such as repairing bridges, piers, and water tanks, usually range from $55,000 to $95,000 per year but often provide more regular schedules and fewer extreme conditions.
Factors That Influence Underwater Welder Pay
Several factors determine how much an underwater welder earns:
- Experience and Certifications: Advanced diving certifications (e.g., saturation diving) can dramatically increase pay.
- Depth and Risk: Deeper dives with higher pressure and hazards typically pay premium rates.
- Location and Project Type: Offshore oil rigs, large infrastructure projects, and remote areas usually pay more.
- Overtime and Hazard Bonuses: Extended projects often include significant overtime pay and safety bonuses.
Job Outlook and Career Path
Demand for underwater welders remains strong, fueled by offshore energy projects, maritime construction, and infrastructure maintenance. According to industry projections, commercial diving and underwater welding will grow steadily over the next decade.
Many welders start with surface welding or commercial diving training, then advance to specialized underwater welding certifications.
How to Maximize Your Earnings
- Obtain commercial diving certifications from accredited schools.
- Pursue advanced underwater welding and saturation diving credentials.
- Seek offshore or deep-sea projects for higher hazard pay.
- Build a track record of safe, efficient project completion to earn top-tier contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the highest salary for an underwater welder?
Top offshore and saturation divers can exceed $150,000–$200,000 annually with overtime and bonuses.
Is underwater welding dangerous?
Yes. Hazards include decompression sickness, electrical risks, and challenging underwater environments. Rigorous training minimizes these risks.
Do underwater welders work year-round?
Many work on a project basis with intense schedules followed by rest periods, especially in offshore roles.