Welder in Dickinson, ND

As a career analyst who’s spent time in Dickinson, I can tell you this city has a unique pulse. It’s not a sprawling metropolis, but it’s an industrial hub with a distinct rhythm driven by agriculture, energy, and construction. For a welder, that means steady work, but it’s a market where your skills and willingness to adapt are everything. This guide cuts through the fluff and gives you the real picture of what it’s like to build a career here.

The Salary Picture: Where Dickinson Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter. In Dickinson, the median salary for a welder is $48,548/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.34/hour. It’s important to understand this is the median—meaning half of the welders here earn more, and half earn less. Compared to the national average of $49,590/year, Dickinson sits just slightly below the U.S. benchmark. However, this number is deceptive without context. The cost of living here is significantly lower than the national average, as we’ll explore later, which gives your dollar more power.

The job market itself is tight. We’re looking at roughly 50 welding jobs in the metro area at any given time. This isn’t a massive pool, so competition can be fierce for the best positions, especially at the top-tier employers. The 10-year job growth for welders in the region is projected at just 2%. This isn’t a boomtown for the profession, but it’s stable. The growth is tied closely to the health of the energy and agricultural sectors. When oil is up and the harvest is good, demand holds steady.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on your experience level. These are estimates based on local employer postings and industry benchmarks for the region.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes for Dickinson
Entry-Level	$38,000 - $44,000	Expect to start as a helper or apprentice. Focus on safety certifications and basic MIG welding.
Mid-Level	$48,548 - $55,000	This is the median range. You should be proficient in multiple processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW) and read blueprints.
Senior-Level	$55,000 - $65,000	Requires specialized skills like TIG welding, pressure vessel work, or supervisory experience.
Expert/Specialist	$65,000+	Positions like Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or lead welder on complex projects (e.g., pipeline, structural).

Insider Tip: The biggest salary jumps in Dickinson come from certifications and specialization. A welder with a CWI certification or who can perform high-quality TIG work on stainless or aluminum can command a premium, especially in the energy sector.

Now, let’s compare Dickinson to other cities in North Dakota. It’s a mid-tier city for welder pay in the state, often outpaced by larger hubs like Fargo or Bismarck, but it offers a different lifestyle and cost structure.

City	Median Salary (Welder)	Cost of Living Index	Key Industries
Dickinson	$48,548	93.0	Energy, Agriculture, Construction
Fargo	~$52,000	94.5	Manufacturing, Healthcare, Tech
Bismarck	~$51,500	95.0	Government, Energy, Healthcare
Minot	~$50,000	92.5	Air Force Base, Energy, Agriculture

Note: Fargo and Bismarck salaries are estimates from BLS OES data for the metro areas.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $48,548 sounds manageable, but what does it look like in your bank account? Let’s break it down with a realistic monthly budget for a single welder living in Dickinson.

First, the math:

• Gross Annual Salary: $48,548
• Estimated Monthly Gross: $4,046
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$850/month (This is a rough estimate; your actual tax burden depends on filing status, deductions, etc.)
• Estimated Net Monthly Take-Home: $3,196

Now, let’s allocate that take-home pay. The average 1BR rent in Dickinson is $837/month. We’ll use that as our baseline.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Welder Earning $48,548

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$837	Can be lower or higher based on neighborhood.
Utilities	$150	Includes electricity, gas, water, and trash. Winter heating bills can spike.
Groceries	$350	For one person. Shopping at local stores like Cash Wise or Target.
Transportation	$250	Includes fuel and basic maintenance. Dickinson is car-dependent.
Health Insurance	$200	If not covered by employer; varies widely.
Miscellaneous	$400	Phone, internet, personal care, entertainment.
Savings/Debt	$1,009	The remainder. This is a healthy amount for savings or paying down debt.
TOTAL	$3,196	Matches Net Take-Home

Can they afford to buy a home? Yes, absolutely. With a $1,009 monthly surplus, a welder could comfortably save for a down payment. The median home price in Dickinson hovers around $250,000 - $275,000. A 10% down payment would be $25,000 - $27,500. At a savings rate of $1,000/month, that’s about 2-2.5 years to save for a down payment. Once purchased, a mortgage on a $260,000 home (with 20% down) would be approximately $1,100/month (including taxes/insurance). This is slightly higher than rent but builds equity. Many local employers in the energy and trades sectors offer good benefits packages that may include a 401(k) match, which can accelerate your financial goals.

Where the Jobs Are: Dickinson's Major Employers

The welding job market in Dickinson is dominated by a few key sectors. You won’t find thousands of openings, but the employers that are here are often long-term and stable if you prove your value.

1. MDU Resources Group (Knife River): A major player in construction materials. They operate a ready-mix concrete and asphalt plant in the region. Welders here are needed for equipment maintenance and repair. Hiring is seasonal and tied to the construction season (spring through fall). They value safety and reliability above all else.
2. BNC National Bank: While a bank, their maintenance and facilities department employs welders for facility upkeep and specialized projects. It’s not a traditional welding job, but it offers stable, year-round work with excellent benefits and a less physically taxing environment.
3. Overland Contracting Inc.: This is a significant construction contractor working on oilfield infrastructure, pipelines, and commercial projects. They frequently seek certified welders for field work. This is often project-based, so it can be less stable but offers higher pay and per diem when traveling. Insider Tip: Get your OSHA 30 and a clean driving record if you want to work here.
4. Local Machine & Fabrication Shops: There are several smaller shops in and around Dickinson, such as Badlands Fabrication & Machine or Stark County Welding. These are the grassroots of the industry. They handle everything from repairing farm equipment for local ranchers to custom fabrication for businesses. The work is diverse, and you’ll learn a lot. Pay can vary, but you’re often treated like family.
5. Farmers Union Oil Company (FUCO): A major cooperative serving the agricultural community. Their facilities often need welders for maintaining storage tanks, equipment, and vehicles. This work is directly tied to the health of the farming sector—a good year for crops means more work for FUCO’s welding crew.
6. Dickinson State University (DSU): The university’s physical plant employs maintenance staff, which can include welders for campus repairs. It’s a stable, government-adjacent job with great benefits and a predictable schedule.
7. Local Oil & Gas Service Companies: While the big names (like Baker Hughes or Schlumberger) have a reduced footprint since the 2014 downturn, local service companies still operate. They need welders for maintaining frac tanks, trailers, and other specialized equipment. This work can be demanding but pays well.

Hiring Trends: The market is slowly diversifying. While energy is still king, there’s growing demand from agricultural modernization (new equipment, storage facilities) and commercial construction (warehouses, retail). The most welder-friendly time to look for work is late winter/early spring, as companies gear up for the construction and ag seasons.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota does not have a state-level welding license. Your employability is based on your certifications and experience. However, there are critical steps and credentials that function as de facto licenses in the industry.

1. Certifications are Key: The American Welding Society (AWS) certifications are the gold standard. Employers will look for:

   • AWS D1.1: Structural Steel Welding Code. This is the most common.
   • AWS D1.5: Bridge Welding Code. Needed for public works projects.
   • ASME Section IX: For pressure vessels and piping. Crucial for energy sector jobs.
   • API 1104: For pipeline welding. Highly valuable in this region.
   • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): The top-tier certification for career advancement into supervision or quality control.

2. Getting Certified: You can get certified through testing at a local technical college or through a third-party testing agency. The cost for a single certification test (e.g., a 3G/4G plate test) typically ranges from $150 to $300. A full suite of certifications can cost $1,000+. It’s an investment, but one that pays off immediately in higher wages.

3. Timeline to Get Started:

   • If you’re already a certified welder: You can start applying immediately. Your certifications are your ticket.
   • If you need training: Enroll in a program at Dickinson State University or Bismarck State College (which offers online/hybrid options). A certificate program can take 6-12 months. An Associate of Applied Science degree takes 2 years. DSU’s welding program is well-regarded and has strong ties to local employers.

4. Other Requirements: A valid driver’s license is non-negotiable. Many jobs require a clean background check, especially for work near energy infrastructure or on federal projects. A DOT physical is often required for jobs involving driving or operating heavy equipment.

Insider Tip: Many local employers will pay for your certification tests if you commit to staying with them for a set period. Always ask about this during interviews.

Best Neighborhoods for Welders

Where you live in Dickinson affects your commute, your social life, and your rent. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods from a welder’s perspective.

1. East Dickinson: This is the older, more established part of town. You’ll find a mix of older homes, apartments, and duplexes. The commute to major industrial parks (like the one near MDU Resources) is short—usually under 10 minutes. Rent is reasonable, often below the city average. It’s a practical, no-frills choice.

   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850/month for a 1BR.

2. West Dickinson / The Highlands: This is the newer, more suburban side of town. It’s where many families live. The commute to the western industrial areas (like Overland Contracting) is easy. You’ll find newer apartment complexes and rental homes. It’s quieter, with better schools, but rent is on the higher end.

   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR.

3. Near Dickinson State University (DSU): The area around the university has a lot of rental properties catering to students, but it’s also a convenient central location. You’re close to downtown, restaurants, and the interstate. The commute to any job site is rarely more than 15 minutes. The vibe is younger and more energetic.

   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month for a 1BR.

4. South Dickinson: This area is growing but is more spread out. It offers smaller, often more affordable rental houses if you’re willing to live a bit farther from the core. It’s a good option if you have a truck and don’t mind a 15-20 minute commute. The area is close to the shopping centers and the new hospital.

   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Dickinson, career growth for a welder isn’t about climbing a corporate ladder; it’s about deepening your expertise and expanding your network.

Specialty Premiums: The highest pay premiums come from:

• Pipeline Welding (API 1104): Can add $10-$15/hour to your base rate.
• Stainless & Aluminum TIG Welding: Essential for food-grade or aerospace-related work (though limited in Dickinson). Can add $5-$10/hour.
• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): Moves you from hands-on welding to quality assurance. Salaries can jump to $70,000+ with experience.

Advancement Paths:

1. Field Welder to Crew Lead: You move from executing tasks to managing a small team on a project site.
2. Welder to Fabricator: You transition from repair work to designing and building custom parts in a shop setting. This is more creative and often more consistent.
3. Welder to Instructor: With enough experience, you can teach at a technical college like DSU.
4. Welder to Business Owner: The most common path in Dickinson. Many successful welders start their own small fabrication or mobile repair business, serving the local agriculture and energy sectors.

10-Year Outlook: The 2% job growth is conservative. It reflects stability, not decline. The key drivers will be the replacement of aging infrastructure (bridges, pipelines, grain elevators) and the continued need for equipment maintenance in agriculture. The welder who is tech-savvy (proficient with plasma cutters, CNC machinery) and has business acumen will have the best long-term prospects.

The Verdict: Is Dickinson Right for You?

Dickinson offers a solid, stable career for the right welder. It’s not for everyone, but for those who value affordability, a tight-knit community, and hands-on work, it can be a great fit.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further here than on the coasts or even in bigger ND cities.	Limited Market: Only 50 welding jobs means less mobility. Job hunting can be slow.
Stable Demand: Tied to energy and agriculture, two resilient industries for this region.	Weather: Harsh winters can disrupt projects and affect quality of life (and your commute).
Community: A “big small town” feel where you can build a reputation quickly.	Cultural Scene: Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to Fargo or Minneapolis.
Outdoor Access: Excellent hunting, fishing, and hiking opportunities are minutes away.	Growth Ceiling: To earn significantly more, you may need to move into management or start your own business.

Final Recommendation:
Dickinson is an excellent choice for a mid-career welder with 3-10 years of experience who is looking to maximize their earnings relative to living costs. It’s ideal for someone who is hands-on, values a short commute, and enjoys the outdoors. It’s less suitable for a brand-new apprentice (limited training opportunities) or a welder seeking a high-energy urban lifestyle. If you’re willing to get certified, show up on time, and adapt to the seasonal rhythms, you can build a very comfortable, debt-free life here.

FAQs

Q: How do the winters really impact welding work?
A: Outdoor welding is nearly impossible from December to March. Most employers shift to shop-based, fabrication, or equipment repair work during this time. If you work for a construction contractor, you may have a seasonal layoff, though many companies now have indoor projects or offer cross-training. Plan your finances for a possible 3-4 month reduced-work period.

Q: Is it worth moving to Dickinson without a job lined up?
A: It’s a risky move. With only 50 jobs, you could be unemployed for a while. It’s better to apply remotely first, network with local shops, and try to secure a job before relocating. However, being on the ground can sometimes give you an edge in a tight market if you show up in person.

Q: What’s the best way to find welding jobs in Dickinson?
A: Don’t rely on national job boards alone. Go local:

1. Check company websites directly: MDU, Overland, Knife River all post on their own sites.
2. Use North Dakota Job Service: The local office is a resource for employers and