Explore Careers
Welders and Metal Workers
Explore Careers
Welders and Metal Workers
ManufacturingService Branches with this Role
What do Welders and Metal Workers do in the Military?
Where do Welders and Metal Workers work?
Welders and metal workers work indoors in metalworking shops and aircraft hangars. They also work outdoors at construction sites, on ships, and in the field.
How much do they make?
Median Military Salary
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$69,180
Military Salary Range
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$22,971 - $320,663
How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Set based on rank and years of service.
- Paid every month.
Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.
- Tax-free payments.
- Varies by location and family status.
Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.
- Based on specialized roles.
- Varies by position and duty.
What training do Welders and Metal Workers gain in the Military?
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Welders and metal workers in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:
- Sheet metal layout and duct work
- Procedures for cutting, brazing, and heat treating
- Operation and care of welding, soldering, and brazing equipment
Military Training for Enlisted Service members
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
What skills help Welders and Metal Workers succeed?
- Interest in working with repair tools
- Preference for physical work
What are possible career paths after the Military?
- Structural Iron and Steel Workers
- Sheet Metal Workers
- Plumbers, Pipefitters and Steamfitters
- Construction Managers
- Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters and Steamfitters
- Pipelayers
- Electricians
- Carpenters