How to Become a Welder in Louisiana
Welders are skilled professionals who fuse metal using heat and precision to build everything from bridges and ships to pipelines and airplanes. In Louisiana, welders earn $62,290 per year ($29.95 per hour) — a strong wage for hands-on, in-demand work (BLS, May 2024).
Dreambound helps you compare welding schools and certification programs near you, so you can start your welding career fast and confidently.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Welder?
Most programs take 4 to 12 months, depending on whether you choose a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. Apprenticeships and certifications may add a few months more, but they also increase your starting salary and job options.
How to Get Certified as a Welder
Certification proves your skills and helps you qualify for higher-paying positions. Follow these steps:
- Choose your specialty (MIG, TIG, pipe, or structural welding).
- Complete an accredited training program.
- Gain hands-on experience through school labs or internships.
- Pass an AWS or NCCER exam covering practical and written skills.
- Renew your certification periodically to stay industry-current.
Job Outlook and Career Paths
Welding offers many paths for advancement:
- Structural Welder – bridges, buildings, and infrastructure
- Pipe Welder – oil and gas pipelines
- Underwater Welder – marine construction and repairs
- Welding Inspector – quality and safety assurance
- Welding Instructor – train future welders
- Industrial Maintenance Welder – factory equipment repair
Welders who add inspection or supervisory certifications can earn significantly more.
How Much Do Welders Make in Louisiana?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Average Salary: $62,290 per year ($29.95 per hour)
- Top 10% Earn: Over $80,000 annually
- Entry-Level: Around $38,000 to $45,000 per year
High-skill roles (such as pipe or underwater welding) can exceed $100,000 with experience and certifications.
Final Thoughts
Louisiana’s industrial sector thrives on skilled welders who value precision and safety. If you’re ready to work hands-on and build a career with growth potential, start your training today.
If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:
Blessed Joy Amarga is part of the Growth and Sales teams at Dreambound. She helps bring in new leads, increasing the number of people at the top of the sales funnel, and supporting the team in creating graphics to boost social media engagement. Blessed is also a Licensed Architect. Outside work, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places for her vlog.
