How to Become a Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in California
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers in California earn a median salary of $57,940/year, which is 14% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~3.0%. After taxes and rent, a welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers takes home approximately $2,490/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers can afford in California
Becoming a welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in California
Meet education requirements
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers 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 welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers 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 welders, cutters, solderers, and brazerss. 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 26,100 welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $68K | $32.48/hr | 1,160 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $64K | $30.72/hr | 1,940 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $63K | $30.19/hr | 2,730 |
| Vallejo | $63K | $30.15/hr | 320 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $59K | $28.48/hr | 310 |
| Napa | $59K | $28.33/hr | 100 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $59K | $28.31/hr | 220 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $59K | $28.23/hr | 880 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $58K | $27.98/hr | 7,560 |
| Salinas | $58K | $27.93/hr | 220 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $58K | $27.85/hr | 80 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $57K | $27.32/hr | 220 |
| El Centro | $57K | $27.24/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $56K | $26.87/hr | 1,570 |
| Redding | $54K | $26.12/hr | 120 |
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers salary range in California
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers make in California?▼
The median welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers salary in California is $57,940 per year ($27.86/hr). This is 14% above the national median of $51,000. Salaries range from $44,200 to $84,690.
What are the requirements to become a welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in California?▼
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers 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 welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $57,940, a welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in California would take home approximately $3,902/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($67,560), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($63,890), San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad ($62,800). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.0%. On a $57,940 salary, this means roughly $1,767/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.