Welder in Massachusetts
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for MA
How to Become a Welder in Massachusetts
While Massachusetts does not have a statewide licensing requirement for general welders, specific welding roles do require official credentials. Welders working on pipefitting or sprinkler systems must obtain a license from the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. For those involved in MassDOT projects, certification from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation is mandatory. Additionally, many employers consider AWS certification to be an industry standard.
Welder Requirements in Massachusetts
| Detail | Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Massachusetts Department of Transportation (for MassDOT projects); Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters (for pipefitting and sprinkler systems) |
| State License Required | No |
| Notes | Massachusetts does not have a statewide licensing requirement for general welders. However, welders working on pipefitting or sprinkler systems require a license from the Massachusetts Board of State Examiners of Plumbers and Gas Fitters. Welders working on MassDOT projects need MassDOT certification. AWS certification is an industry standard and may be required by employers. Minimum age for pipefitter and sprinkler fitter licenses is 18 years old. |
Welder Salary in Massachusetts
The median welder salary in Massachusetts is $61,710 per year, which is 21.0% above the national median of $51,000.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $46,760 |
| 25th | $52,400 |
| 50th (median) | $61,710 |
| 75th | $74,090 |
| 90th (experienced) | $85,680 |
Massachusetts employs approximately 3,080 welders.
Welder Job Outlook
AI Impact on Welders
Low AI Exposure (Score: -1.20/1.00)
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
Is Becoming a Welder in Massachusetts Worth It?
Factors to consider: Massachusetts's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, moderate job growth, low AI disruption risk, and your personal career goals.