What does a welder earn in Germany?

Average salary for welders in Germany

According to the Federal Statistical Office, the average gross annual salary for welders and cutters in Germany in 2022 was 38,300 euros.

This is a solid starting salary in this profession. With increasing professional experience and further education, salary increases are usually possible.

Salary range for welders in Germany

The earning opportunities for welders are quite broad. According to job advertisements, the salary range usually lies between 32,500 euros and 45,900 euros per year.

The minimum corresponds to the starting salary for newcomers to the profession. With work experience and additional qualifications, it is usually possible to reach higher levels up to the maximum salary.

Regionally, there may also be deviations from this salary range depending on the industry and company size.

Salaries for welders in the largest cities

Now let's take a look at the salaries for welders in the largest cities in Germany:

Here it becomes apparent that welders in southern Germany tend to earn better than those in northern and eastern Germany. Salaries are often oriented towards the economic strength of the region.

The cost of living also varies regionally, so that the net income in expensive cities like Munich, despite higher salaries, sometimes doesn't turn out to be much more substantial.

Factors that influence a welder's salary

Several factors determine your earnings as a welder:

• Work Experience: With increasing experience, salary usually rises as well. Beginners typically start with entry-level salaries.

• Further Training: Additional qualifications such as master craftsman certificate, technician qualification, or welding specialist increase earning potential.

• Specialization: Depending on the focus (e.g. stainless steel welding, aluminum welding), differences in earnings may be possible.

• Company Size: Large industrial companies often pay more than small craft businesses.

• Industry: Pay varies between automotive construction, mechanical engineering, steel construction, etc.

• Region: In economically strong areas, wages are higher.

• Collective Agreement: Being bound to collective wages positively affects salary.

• Working Hours: Overtime or shift bonuses increase gross income.

Professional Development for Welders

As a welder, you have good opportunities to advance in your career and achieve a higher salary.

The following training programs bring you new development opportunities:

• Master Certificate: As a welding master, you can start your own business.

• Technician: With a state-approved technician, your career prospects improve.

• Industrial Master: This qualification opens the door to the industry.

• Welding Engineer: An engineering degree allows for higher positions.

• Trainer: The trainer certification allows you to instruct trainees.

With such qualifications, higher salaries of over 50,000 euros per year are usually possible.

Conclusion

Welders in Germany earn an average of about 38,300 euros gross per year. The salary range varies from starting salaries of around 32,500 euros to top earnings of about 45,900 euros.

Payment depends on factors such as professional experience, further education, specialization, company, and region. In southern Germany, wages are often higher than in the north or east.

With professional development to master, technician, or welding specialist, there are opportunities for advancement and significant salary increases. As a qualified welder, you have excellent earning prospects.