A Career Analyst's Guide to Welding in Post Falls, ID

Post Falls is a city on the move. Situated between the Spokane metro area and the scenic Coeur d'Alene region, it has become a hub for manufacturing, construction, and logistics. For a skilled welder, this means steady demand, but also a competitive market where knowing the local landscape is everything. This guide cuts through the noise, using hard data and on-the-ground insights to help you decide if Post Falls is the right place to build your career.

The Salary Picture: Where Post Falls Stands

Let’s start with the numbers that matter. The median salary for a welder in the Post Falls metro area is $49,128 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $23.62. This is slightly below the national average of $49,590, a common trend for smaller, inland markets compared to coastal hubs. However, the cost of living here is also more favorable.

The job market is stable but not explosive. There are approximately 83 welding-related jobs in the metro area, reflecting the steady industrial base. The 10-year job growth projection is 2%, which indicates a consistent need for replacement and moderate expansion, rather than a hiring frenzy. For a welder, this translates to reliability over rapid-fire opportunities.

Experience-Level Breakdown:
Wage progression in Post Falls follows a predictable path based on skill, certifications, and employer. The table below outlines typical earning brackets.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Certifications/Notes
Entry-Level	0-2	$38,000 - $44,000	Basic MIG/TIG skills, OSHA 10. Often starts in fabrication shops or helper roles.
Mid-Level	3-7	$46,000 - $55,000	AWS D1.1 Structural, ASME Section IX. Can work independently on complex projects.
Senior-Level	8-15	$56,000 - $68,000	Lead hand roles, welding procedure qualification (WPQ), advanced NDT certs. Supervisory potential.
Expert/Specialist	15+	$69,000+	Master fabricator, code inspector, or niche skills (e.g., pressure vessel, aerospace). Often in management.

Note: Salaries are estimates based on local job postings and industry data. Specialized certs (e.g., orbital welding, underwater) can push these figures higher.

Comparison to Other Idaho Cities:
Post Falls sits in the middle of the pack. It’s not as high-paying as the Boise metro area, where industrial growth is more intense, but it offers a better balance than more rural parts of the state.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Job Market Vibe
Post Falls	$49,128	96.9	Stable, steady growth
Boise	~$52,000	105.2	Competitive, higher demand
Idaho Falls	~$47,500	92.1	Niche (nuclear/energy), slower
Twin Falls	~$46,000	89.5	Ag/food processing focus

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $49,128 means a monthly gross income of about $4,094. After estimated federal and state taxes (Idaho has a progressive income tax), a single filer might take home approximately $3,100 - $3,250 per month.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Post Falls is $1,114/month. This is the biggest variable in your budget.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a single welder earning the median wage:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,114	Average for a standard unit. Newer complexes can be $1,200+.
Utilities	$180	Includes electricity, gas, water, and internet. Winter heating costs can spike.
Groceries	$350	For a single person. Post Falls has Walmart, Albertsons, and a Fred Meyer.
Transportation	$350	Car payment, insurance, and gas. A commute from Hayden or Liberty Lake adds cost.
Health Insurance	$250	Varies widely; this is a typical employer plan contribution.
Discretionary	$500	Savings, entertainment, personal care, etc.
TOTAL	$2,744	Leaves a buffer of ~$350-$500/month.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, but with qualifications. The median home price in Post Falls is around $400,000. With a 20% down payment ($80,000), a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes/insurance) would be roughly $1,800-$2,000. This is about double the average rent. A single welder on the median salary would need to be very disciplined with savings to afford a down payment, and a mortgage would consume a significant portion of their take-home pay. Dual-income households make homeownership much more attainable here.

Insider Tip: Look for employers offering a 401(k) match. Even a modest 3% match can significantly boost long-term savings for a down payment. Also, consider renting in a neighboring community like Liberty Lake (slightly higher rent but more amenities) or State Line (lower rent but older housing stock).

Where the Jobs Are: Post Falls's Major Employers

The welding jobs in Post Falls are concentrated in manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. Here are the key players:

1. Kootenai Health (Hospital System): While not a traditional manufacturer, their facilities department employs welders for maintenance and custom fabrication of medical equipment, railings, and structural elements. It's a stable, union-esque environment with excellent benefits. Hiring is slow but consistent for replacement.

2. Engineered Fabrication Inc: A major custom metal fabrication shop serving the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors. They handle complex, high-precision work. They actively seek welders with TIG and AWS certification. Hiring trends show a focus on expanding their aerospace division.

3. Lakeside Companies (Lakeside Packaging, Lakeside Steel): A massive local conglomerate. Their steel division is a primary employer for structural and production welders. This is a high-volume, fast-paced environment. They often hire in waves for new projects, making it a good place to "get your foot in the door."

4. Mackay Water & Irrigation: A long-standing local business specializing in agricultural irrigation systems. They need welders for custom fittings, pipeline work, and trailer fabrication. The work is seasonal but has year-round maintenance. Good for welders who enjoy variety and working outdoors.

5. Northwest Fabrication & Machine: A shop focused on heavy equipment repair and custom parts for the logging and mining industries. They need welders proficient in stick and flux-core for repair work. Hiring is often driven by local demand from Coeur d'Alene and the surrounding forests.

6. Local Construction & Bridge Companies: Firms like Hecla Mining (in nearby Wallace) and various local contractors employ welders for structural steel, rebar, and bridge components. These jobs are project-based, offering good overtime but potential downtime between contracts.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward welders with certifications and the ability to read blueprints. Digital literacy (using CAD for fabrication) is becoming a plus, even in smaller shops. The agricultural and construction sectors show the most consistent hiring, while aerospace and fabrication offer the highest skill premium.

Getting Licensed in ID

Idaho has a straightforward but critical licensing requirement for welders working on public infrastructure.

• State License Requirement: Idaho requires a state welding license for any welder working on public works projects (bridges, buildings, pipelines). This is administered by the Idaho State Division of Occupational Licensing (DOL). You do NOT need a state license for private fabrication shop work, but most reputable employers will require certification.
• The Path: The standard route is to pass a state-approved welding test, typically the AWS D1.1 Structural Steel Code test. This is administered by certified testing facilities (CFTs). In the Post Falls/Spokane area, you can often take the test at local community colleges or through the AWS.
• Cost: The test fee ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the test type (e.g., FCAW, SMAW, GMAW) and the testing facility.
• Timeline: If you have the skills, you can schedule and take the test within a few weeks. Training to pass the test can take anywhere from a few months (at a trade school) to several years of on-the-job experience.
• Insider Tip: Many local employers, especially Lakeside and Engineered Fabrication, will pay for your state license test if you are hired as an apprentice. It's a key question to ask during an interview. Always verify the current requirements on the Idaho DOL website as rules can change.

Best Neighborhoods for Welders

Choosing where to live in Post Falls depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Central Post Falls (Downtown/Sprague Ave):

   • Vibe: Walkable, mix of older homes and new apartments. Close to local shops and restaurants.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to most major employers (Lakeside, Engineered Fab). Easy access to I-90.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,250/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those who want a short commute and a bit of local character.

2. Northwest Post Falls (Harrison Slough Area):

   • Vibe: Newer subdivisions, families, more suburban feel. Close to parks and the river.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to most employers, but can be longer during peak traffic on Spokane Street.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,400/month for a 1BR in a complex.
   • Best For: Welders with families or those wanting more modern amenities and space.

3. East Post Falls (Near I-90 & Hwy 41):

   • Vibe: Commercial and industrial, with newer apartment complexes and some older homes. Very convenient for commuters from Spokane Valley.
   • Commute: 5 minutes to many job sites. Close to big-box stores (Costco, Home Depot).
   • Rent Estimate: $1,050 - $1,300/month.
   • Best For: Practical welders who value convenience and a quick commute above all.

4. Liberty Lake (Adjacent City):

   • Vibe: Upscale, highly desirable suburb with a lake, walking paths, and excellent schools. More expensive.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to Post Falls employers, depending on traffic on I-90.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,600/month for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Welders with higher earning potential or a dual-income household seeking a premium lifestyle.

5. State Line (West of Post Falls):

   • Vibe: More rural, with larger lots and older housing stock. Quieter, but fewer amenities.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to Post Falls. Easy access to Coeur d'Alene for recreation.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR or small house.
   • Best For: Welders who prefer a quieter, more rural setting and don't mind a short drive.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A welding career in Post Falls is about specialization and strategic moves. The 10-year job growth of 2% means you can't rely on industry expansion alone; you must increase your value.

• Specialty Premiums: Specializing can add $5 to $15 per hour to your base rate.

  • TIG Welding (Aluminum/Stainless): High demand in aerospace (Engineered Fab) and food/beverage manufacturing. Can command a 15-20% premium.
  • Structural Welding (AWS D1.1): The backbone of construction and heavy equipment. This is the most common certification and a baseline expectation.
  • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI): A career leap. Requires passing an AWS exam. Inspectors in the region can earn $70,000+ and move into quality control or management.
  • Pipe Welding (ASME Section IX): Essential for energy, HVAC, and custom fabrication. The highest skill premium in the region.

• Advancement Paths:

  • Welder -> Lead Hand -> Shop Foreman: The most common path in fabrication. Requires leadership skills and a deep understanding of production.
  • Welder -> Field Superintendent (Construction): Move from the shop to managing on-site welding teams for bridges, pipelines, or commercial buildings.
  • Welder -> CWI -> Quality Manager: Transition into a non-hands-on role, ensuring all work meets code. This path offers the highest long-term earning potential without physical strain.

• 10-Year Outlook: The core industries (construction, agriculture, manufacturing) are not going away. The key will be adapting to new technologies. Post Falls shops are slowly adopting robotic welding (especially in mid-to-large shops), which changes the skill set from manual operation to programming and maintenance. Welders who understand both hands-on and automated processes will be the most secure.

The Verdict: Is Post Falls Right for You?

Post Falls offers a stable, affordable entry point into a welding career with a clear path to specialization. It’s not the place for explosive growth, but it’s a great foundation for building a life and a skill set.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary goes further here than in Boise or national averages.	Limited Job Market: Only 83 jobs means competition for the best positions can be fierce.
Stable, Diverse Employers: From aerospace to agriculture, you can find a niche that fits.	Modest Growth: A 2% 10-year outlook means you must be proactive about skills advancement.
Outdoor Recreation Access: World-class fishing, hiking, and skiing are minutes away.	Wage Ceiling: The median of $49,128 is solid, but the top-end earning potential is lower than in major metros.
No State Licensing for Private Work: Lower barrier to entry for shop work.	Seasonal Variability: Some ag and construction jobs can slow down in winter.

Final Recommendation:
Post Falls is an excellent choice for a mid-career welder (3-7 years of experience) looking to stretch their salary and improve their quality of life. It’s also suitable for an entry-level welder willing to start in a shop role and invest in certifications. It’s less ideal for a welder at the peak of their career seeking the absolute highest salary or a fast-paced, large-city job market, unless they are targeting a very specific employer or role.

If you value work-life balance, access to outdoors, and a stable job over chasing the highest possible wage, Post Falls is a compelling destination.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need to bring my own welding helmet and tools to a job interview?
A: For a formal interview, no. However, it’s a powerful sign of professionalism to have your own helmet, gloves, and basic tools. If you’re invited for a practical welding test (very common), you will be expected to bring your own helmet and gloves. Always ask the employer what they provide.

Q2: How is the winter weather for commuting and work?
A: Post Falls gets snow, but it’s generally manageable compared to the Midwest. Major roads are plowed quickly. Commutes can be slick, so a reliable vehicle with good tires is essential. Some outdoor construction and agricultural work slows down significantly from December to February, but indoor fabrication shops operate year-round.

Q3: Is it worth getting AWS certified before moving?
A: Absolutely. Having an AWS D1.1 certification from your home state makes you immediately more attractive to employers like Engineered Fabrication and Lakeside. It can help you skip initial training and negotiate a higher starting wage. Verify if your certification transfers or if you need to take a local test.

Q4: Are there union welding jobs in Post Falls?
A: Union presence is limited. While some construction projects may use union labor (e.g., Ironworkers Local 86 in Spokane), most manufacturing and fabrication jobs in Post Falls are non-union. The benefits are often competitive, especially at larger companies like Lakeside and Kootenai Health.

Q5: What’s the best way to find a job before I move?
A: Use Indeed.com and filter by "Post Falls, ID." Also, check the "Careers" pages of the employers listed above. The Idaho Department of Labor website is a valuable resource for job postings and relocation assistance. Networking is key—join local Facebook groups like "Spokane/Post Falls Welding Jobs" to connect with employers directly.