How to Become a Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in California
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in California earn a median salary of $56,460/year, which is 13% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.0%. After taxes and rent, a structural metal fabricators and fitters takes home approximately $2,398/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a structural metal fabricators and fitters can afford in California
Becoming a structural metal fabricators and fitters in California
Meet education requirements
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many structural metal fabricators and fitters positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for structural metal fabricators and fitterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 2,680 structural metal fabricators and fitters. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad.
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $71K | $34.16/hr | 60 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $63K | $30.51/hr | 780 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $60K | $28.85/hr | 200 |
| Vallejo | $57K | $27.28/hr | — |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $56K | $26.8/hr | 610 |
| Fresno | $52K | $25.14/hr | 80 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $50K | $23.82/hr | 50 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $49K | $23.38/hr | 180 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $46K | $21.9/hr | 340 |
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters salary range in California
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a structural metal fabricators and fitters make in California?▼
The median structural metal fabricators and fitters salary in California is $56,460 per year ($27.15/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $49,900. Salaries range from $40,070 to $74,190.
What are the requirements to become a structural metal fabricators and fitters in California?▼
Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a structural metal fabricators and fitters afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $56,460, a structural metal fabricators and fitters in California would take home approximately $3,810/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 37.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for structural metal fabricators and fitters in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for structural metal fabricators and fitters in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($71,050), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($63,460), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($60,000). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for structural metal fabricators and fitters?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.0%. On a $56,460 salary, this means roughly $1,678/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.