CertOutlook

Welder in Delaware

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for DE. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$56,510
trending_up +10.8% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Delaware.

engineering
510

Jobs (DE)

monitoring Stable
+2.2%

10-yr job growth

schedule
Not specified (certification process varies)

Time to complete

route How to become a welder in Delaware

Delaware does not require a state license for welders; however, certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and highly recommended for employment. Aspiring welders typically complete a welding training program and then pass an AWS Welding Certification Test. While there isn't a state licensing body, some employers or specific projects may have additional requirements, and AWS certification offers nationwide reciprocity.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $44,070
25th percentile $48,980
50th (median) $56,510
75th percentile $70,350
90th (experienced) $92,410

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Delaware. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Delaware requirements

Licensing bodyNo state licensing body; American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard for certification
State license Not required
EducationHigh school diploma or GED; completion of a formal welding program or apprenticeship is recommended
ExamAWS Welding Certification Test
NotesDelaware does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers. Some cities or specific projects (e.g., bridges) may have their own certification/licensing requirements. Minimum age of 18, valid driver's license, drug test, and criminal background check may be required by employers or training programs.

Source: No state licensing body; American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard for certification

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+2.2%
Average
Annual openings
45,600
Nationwide per year
Total employment
457,300
Nationwide
neurology

AI & tech impact

verified Low exposure -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.

hub

balance Is it worth it?

  • infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
  • check_circleLow AI disruption risk
psychology
Wondering if a welder career is the right fit?
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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a welder in Delaware? expand_more
To become a welder in Delaware, you need to complete the required education (High school diploma or GED; completion of a formal welding program or apprenticeship is recommended), and pass the AWS Welding Certification Test.
Do I need a license to work as a welder in Delaware? expand_more
welders in Delaware are not required to hold a state license. Note: Delaware does not have a statewide licensing requirement for welders. Certification through the American Welding Society (AWS) is the industry standard and often required by employers. Some cities or specific projects (e.g., bridges) may have their own certification/licensing requirements. Minimum age of 18, valid driver's license, drug test, and criminal background check may be required by employers or training programs.
What do welders earn in Delaware? expand_more
In Delaware, the median pay for welders comes to $56,510/year. This exceeds the $51,000 national median by 11%. Entry-level (10th percentile) starts at $44,070, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) earn $92,410.
How long does it take to become a welder in Delaware? expand_more
Most candidates in Delaware complete the process in Not specified (certification process varies), from enrollment in a training program through licensure.

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