Welder in Pasco, WA

The Salary Picture: Where Pasco Stands

Let’s get right to it. If you’re a welder looking at Pasco, you’re probably wondering if the pay stacks up against the cost of living and what your earning potential looks like over the long haul. Pasco isn't a booming metropolis like Seattle, but it's the heart of the Tri-Cities industrial corridor, and that matters for your wallet.

The median salary for a welder in the Pasco metro area is $49,441/year. This translates to an hourly rate of $23.77/hour. To put this in perspective, the national average for welders sits at $49,590/year. That means Pasco’s median is just a hair below the national average, which is actually a solid sign for a mid-sized, lower-cost-of-living area. You’re not getting gouged on pay compared to the rest of the country, but you’re also not seeing the inflated West Coast wages you’d find in Seattle or Portland.

The job market itself is niche but stable. The Pasco metro area has 162 welding jobs. This isn't a massive number, but it reflects the specialized, project-based nature of the work here—think long-term contracts and specialized facilities rather than high-volume turnover. The 10-year job growth is projected at 2%. This is slower than the national average, which points to a mature market. You’re not moving here for a welding boom; you’re moving here for stability in a specific, high-skill industry tied to agriculture, energy, and transportation.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earnings will shift significantly based on your certs, experience, and the specific sector you work in. Here’s a realistic breakdown for Pasco:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Hourly Rate	Key Drivers
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$38,000 - $44,000	$18.27 - $21.15	Basic GMAW/FCAW, structural work, local fab shops. Often starts with temp-to-perm roles.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$49,000 - $58,000	$23.56 - $27.88	AWS D1.1/D1.6 certification, experience with pressure vessels or structural steel. This is the median range.
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$60,000 - $75,000+	$28.85 - $36.06	API 1104, ASME Section IX, welding inspector (CWI), pipe welding, or supervisory roles. Top earners are in nuclear or high-pressure energy sectors.

Insider Tip: The jump from entry-level to mid-level is where you see the biggest pay increase. Get AWS certified as soon as you can. Local employers like BNW and Pacific Steel will pay a premium for certified welders, often bumping you directly into that mid-level bracket.

Comparison to Other WA Cities

How does Pasco stack up against the rest of Washington state? It’s a tale of two markets.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living (Index)	Rent (1BR Avg)	Job Market Vibe
Pasco	$49,441	99.0	$1,633	Specialized, stable, project-based.
Seattle	$68,000+	152.3	$2,200+	Very high demand, diverse sectors (tech, marine, aerospace).
Spokane	$52,000	97.1	$1,150	Broader manufacturing base, slightly lower pay than Pasco.
Yakima	$47,500	92.8	$1,050	Agriculture-focused, lower pay and lower COL.

The key takeaway: Pasco offers a strong value proposition. Your salary goes further here than in Seattle, and you’re not sacrificing much in terms of job stability. Compared to smaller agricultural towns like Yakima, Pasco’s industrial base provides higher wages without a dramatic jump in cost of living.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s do the math. A median salary of $49,441/year breaks down to about $4,120/month before taxes. After federal, state (WA has no income tax, which is a huge plus), and FICA taxes, your take-home pay will be roughly $3,200 - $3,350/month, depending on your withholdings and benefits.

Now, subtract the average Pasco rent of $1,633/month for a 1-bedroom apartment. This leaves you with $1,567 - $1,717/month for all other expenses: utilities, groceries, gas, insurance, savings, and entertainment.

Can you afford to buy a home? It’s possible, but it’s a stretch on a single median income. The median home price in Pasco is around $350,000. With a 10% down payment ($35,000), a 30-year mortgage at current rates (~6.5%) would mean a monthly payment of roughly $2,000, including taxes and insurance. That’s $300-$400 more than the average rent and would consume over 55% of your take-home pay, which is not financially advisable.

Insider Tip: Buying becomes feasible with a dual-income household, a senior-level salary ($60k+), or by looking at condos/townhomes in the $250k-$300k range. Many welders in Pasco live in neighboring Kennewick or Richland for slightly different housing options. Don’t rule out a 20-30 minute commute.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Median Earner

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,633	Average for Pasco proper.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150	Varies by season; summers are hot.
Groceries	$350	For one person.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Assuming a used vehicle.
Gas/Public Transit	$120	Pasco is car-dependent.
Health Insurance (if not employer)	$250	Varies widely.
Savings/Retirement (10%)	$335	Critical for long-term stability.
Remaining	$32	For discretionary spending.

This budget is tight. It highlights that a median welder salary in Pasco supports a comfortable but restrained lifestyle. The lack of state income tax is the main financial advantage, but housing costs are the primary squeeze.

Where the Jobs Are: Pasco's Major Employers

The Pasco job market for welders is dominated by a few key sectors: agriculture, energy, transportation, and construction. You won’t find a sprawling aerospace hub, but you will find robust, long-term employers.

1. BNW (Benton County Public Works): A major source of public sector welding jobs. They maintain the county’s infrastructure—bridges, pipelines, and equipment. Hiring is steady but competitive, often requiring CDL-A and specific certifications. They prioritize local candidates with a clean driving record.
2. Pacific Steel & Supply: One of the largest regional fabricators. They do everything from structural steel for commercial buildings to custom fabrication. This is a classic shop environment with opportunities for both MIG and stick welding. They have a constant need for certified welders for their ongoing projects.
3. Honeywell (Richland, but hires from Pasco): While their main site is in nearby Richland, they are a massive regional employer. They have facilities that require welders for maintenance and fabrication, especially for aerospace and defense components. Their hiring process is rigorous and often requires security clearances.
4. Kaiser Aluminum: A major employer in the broader Tri-Cities area. They produce aluminum products for aerospace and industrial markets. Their welders often work on specialized projects requiring high-precision TIG welding. The pay is at the higher end of the local spectrum.
5. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL): Located in Richland, PNNL hires welders for specialized research and development equipment. These roles are rare and highly competitive, often requiring an associate’s degree and advanced certifications. They’re a long-term career goal for many local welders.
6. Local Pipeline and Energy Contractors: Companies that work on the regional natural gas and oil pipeline infrastructure. These are often project-based jobs with overtime opportunities. They require API 1104 certification and are not for the faint of heart—they involve travel and rigorous safety standards.
7. Agricultural Equipment Dealers & Repair Shops: Pasco is in the heart of Washington’s farming country. Companies like Thompson Tractor or Anderson Hay & Grain have in-house maintenance crews that need welders to repair heavy equipment. These jobs offer a different pace and a direct connection to the local economy.

Hiring Trend Insight: The market is stable, not explosive. Employers are looking for welders who are self-starters, have a clean safety record, and can pass a practical welding test. Networking is key—many jobs are filled through referrals from current employees. Show up in person to drop off applications at local fab shops; it makes a difference in a city this size.

Getting Licensed in WA

Washington State does not have a statewide welding license. Instead, certification is based on employer requirements and AWS (American Welding Society) certifications. However, there are critical steps and costs to consider.

• AWS Certifications: This is your golden ticket. The most common is the AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code. Many local training programs (like those at Columbia Basin College in Pasco) offer courses that prepare you for the test. The exam itself costs $300-$500 depending on the test facility. You’ll need to renew every 3 years.
• Pressure Vessel/Pipe Certs: For higher-paying jobs (like at Kaiser or pipeline work), you’ll need ASME Section IX or API 1104 certifications. These are more expensive and require more seat time, often costing $1,000-$2,500 for a training and testing package.
• CWI (Certified Welding Inspector): The ultimate career booster. If you want to move into supervision or quality control, this is the path. The exam fee is $990 (through AWS), and you’ll need 5+ years of experience. Many local inspectors make $75k+.
• Timeline: You can start working as a welder with basic skills and a willingness to learn on the job. However, to unlock the $60k+ salary range, plan on 6 months to 2 years of focused training and certification after your initial experience. Community colleges like CBC offer certificate programs that can get you job-ready in about a year.

Insider Tip: Check with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). While they don’t license welders, they regulate apprenticeship programs. Union apprenticeships (like with the Ironworkers or Pipefitters) can be a lucrative path, offering paid training and a structured wage increase.

Best Neighborhoods for Welders

Where you live in Pasco will affect your commute, your social life, and your housing costs. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods and nearby areas.

1. South Pasco / Road 68: This is the most common area for working-class professionals. It’s close to major employers like Pacific Steel and offers a variety of older, affordable homes and apartments. You can find a 1BR for $1,400-$1,600. The commute to most industrial areas is under 15 minutes. It’s not fancy, but it’s practical.
2. North Pasco / Highway 395 Corridor: This area is growing, with newer apartment complexes and subdivisions. Rent is slightly higher, at $1,700-$1,900 for a 1BR. The advantage is quick access to I-82 and the Richland/Kennewick commute. Good for welders working at Honeywell or PNNL who want a shorter drive.
3. Kennewick (Eastside): Technically a different city, but many Pasco welders live here. The Eastside has older, more affordable housing stock ($1,300-$1,500 for a 1BR) and is a straight shot across the Blue Bridge to Pasco (10-15 min commute). It’s a popular choice for families and those seeking a bit more space.
4. West Richland: If you’re working at Honeywell or PNNL and don’t mind a 20-25 minute commute, West Richland offers a quieter, more suburban feel with excellent schools. Rent is higher ($1,800-$2,000+), but the quality of life is often cited as better. A good option for senior welders with families.
5. Downtown Pasco: The historic core is seeing a revival. You’ll find loft apartments and renovated homes. Rent can vary wildly ($1,500-$2,200). The vibe is walkable and connected, but it’s not ideal if you need a big garage for projects. Best for welders who value urban life over sprawling space.

Insider Tip: Traffic in the Tri-Cities is minimal except for the I-182 bridge over the Columbia River. If you work in Pasco and live in Richland, you’ll hit that bridge twice a day. It’s not a traffic jam like Seattle, but it can add 10 minutes to your commute. Factor that in.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Welding in Pasco is not a dead-end job, but growth requires intentional upskilling. The 2% job growth means you won’t be handed promotions; you’ll have to earn them.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest pay jumps come from specialization:
  • Pipe Welding (ASME IX): Can add $5-$10/hour to your rate.
  • Nuclear/High-Pressure Welding: Requires extensive training and background checks but can push you into the $40+/hour range.
  • Welding Inspector (CWI): As mentioned, this is the path to breaking the $75,000 ceiling and moving off the shop floor.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is: Entry-level Welder -> Certified Welder -> Lead Welder/Shop Supervisor -> Quality Control Inspector / Project Manager. Some also move into sales for welding equipment or start their own small fabrication shop.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 2% growth, the market will be stable but competitive. The key will be staying current with automation (robotic welding is creeping into local shops) and maintaining a stellar safety record. The energy sector (LNG, hydrogen) is a potential future growth area in the region, which could mean more specialized welding jobs in the next decade.

Insider Tip: Join the American Welding Society (AWS) Pacific Northwest Section. Attend local meetings in the Tri-Cities. Networking here is low-key but effective. You’ll meet inspectors, engineers, and hiring managers who can alert you to jobs before they’re posted.

The Verdict: Is Pasco Right for You?

Making the move to Pasco is a calculated decision. It’s not for everyone, but for the right welder, it can be a great place to build a stable career and life.

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living relative to the West Coast. No state income tax.	Limited job variety compared to major metros.
Stable, long-term employers in agriculture, energy, and construction.	Job growth is slow (2%); advancement requires proactive upskilling.
Short commutes and minimal traffic.	Pay is at the national median, not a high-wage area.
Outdoor recreation is abundant (rivers, lakes, mountains nearby).	Can feel isolated; it’s a 3-hour drive to Seattle or Portland.
Strong sense of community and a "work hard" culture.	Summers are extremely hot (often over 100°F), which can be tough in a shop.

Final Recommendation:

Move to Pasco if: You are a mid-level welder ($50k-$60k) seeking stability, a lower cost of living, and a good work-life balance. You’re okay with a smaller city and are willing to get certified to unlock higher pay. You value short commutes and access to outdoor activities.

Think twice if: You are an entry-level welder looking for the fastest path to a high salary. You want a dynamic, fast-paced job market with endless options. You dislike hot, dry climates.

For a skilled welder with a plan, Pasco offers a solid foundation. It’s a place to build a career, not just clock in and out. The key is to arrive with your certifications ready and a clear understanding of the local employers. The opportunities are there, but you have to be the one to grab them.

FAQs

1. What’s the best way to find a welding job in Pasco?
Start with the websites of the major employers listed above (BNW, Pacific Steel). Also, use LinkedIn and local job boards like Tri-City Jobs. But don’t underestimate the power of walking into a shop with a resume and your AWS certification in hand. Personal contact still works