Hello friends,
I’m James Clark, an underwater welder with several years of hands-on experience. Today, I want to share something many people ask me: how much do underwater welders make in Arizona? If you’re planning to join this field or just curious, I’ll explain it in a simple way — straight from someone who’s been underwater on the job.
Is There Demand for Underwater Welders in Arizona?
You might be thinking — Arizona doesn’t have an ocean, so do underwater welders even get work there?
The answer is yes! While Arizona doesn’t have sea coastlines, it does have dams, lakes, water treatment plants, bridges, and inland infrastructure that often need underwater welding. Places like Lake Havasu, Roosevelt Dam, and major construction sites often hire inland commercial divers and underwater welders.
Average Underwater Salary in Arizona
Let’s talk about the salary. The underwater salary in Arizona depends on your experience, type of job, and certifications.
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Weekly Pay | Monthly Pay | Yearly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Welder | $22 – $30 | $900 – $1,200 | $3,500 – $5,000 | $42,000 – $60,000 |
| Mid-Level (2–5 yrs) | $30 – $40 | $1,200 – $1,600 | $5,000 – $6,500 | $60,000 – $78,000 |
| Experienced (5+ yrs) | $40 – $55+ | $1,600 – $2,200 | $6,500 – $9,000 | $80,000 – $105,000+ |
Salaries can go even higher if you’re working in hazardous environments, tight spaces, or on emergency repair jobs.
Is the Underwater Welder Salary Enough to Live in Arizona?
Arizona’s cost of living is moderate compared to states like California or New York. In cities like Phoenix or Tucson, you can afford rent, utilities, and daily expenses comfortably on a mid-level underwater welder’s salary. If you’re earning $60,000–$90,000 a year, you can live well and even save — especially if you work seasonal or offshore jobs with bonuses.
What Affects Your Underwater Salary in Arizona?
Several things impact how much you earn:
1. Experience – The more jobs you complete, the more your value goes up.
2. Certifications – High-level diving and welding certifications boost your chances.
3. Type of Job – Working on dams or emergency infrastructure pays more than basic inspections.
4. Location – Some regions in Arizona offer more jobs depending on demand and projects.
5. Risk Level – Riskier work often comes with better pay and bonuses.
Certifications You’ll Need in Arizona
To get hired as an underwater welder in Arizona, you must have:
- Commercial Diving Certification
- Underwater Welding Training
- Welding Certification (AWS or equivalent)
- CPR & First Aid Certification
- Dive Medical Clearance
Training costs vary but usually range from $15,000 to $25,000 for a full commercial diving + welding program.
How to Start Your Underwater Welding Career in Arizona?
1. Graduate from high school or get a GED.
2. Enroll in a commercial diving school.
3. Get underwater welding training.
4. Complete welding certification (AWS is preferred).
Apply for entry-level jobs with local contractors or government projects.
Start small, learn on the job, and build your skills — the better you get, the higher your earning potential.
Where Do Underwater Welders Work in Arizona?
Underwater welders in Arizona mostly work on inland projects like:
- Dam and bridge maintenance
- Water tank repairs
- Hydroelectric facilities
- Underwater inspections for public utilities
- Construction companies near lakes or reservoirs
Top Companies and Contractors Hiring in Arizona
You may find jobs at:
- Inland marine services
- Water treatment contractors
- Government agencies (public infrastructure)
- Power and dam maintenance firms
- Local diving and welding contractors
Look for listings on Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter, or contact local diving schools — they often refer graduates directly.
My Experience Getting My First Underwater Job in Arizona
My first job was at a hydro plant in central Arizona. It wasn’t glamorous — cold, muddy, and tiring. But the pay was solid, and I learned a lot. That one small job led to more contracts and long-term clients. So if you’re just starting, don’t be afraid of small gigs — they help build your career.
Is It Worth Becoming an Underwater Welder in Arizona?
If you enjoy physical work, want variety in your job, and don’t mind getting wet and muddy — this career can be both rewarding and profitable.
The underwater salary in Arizona is strong, especially for inland projects, and there’s room to grow. It might not be as flashy as offshore welding, but it’s steady, needed, and pays well if you have the right training.
How Does Working in Arizona Compare to Coastal States?
Underwater welders in Arizona usually work in lakes, dams, and water facilities — not oceans. This means fewer storms, shorter dives, and more stable conditions. On the other hand, offshore jobs (like in Texas or Louisiana) can pay more but are riskier and physically tougher. Arizona jobs offer more stability and predictable work hours.
Underwater Welder Salary Comparison: Arizona vs Nearby States
| State | Avg Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $42,000 – $105,000 | Inland work, steady demand |
| New Mexico | $40,000 – $95,000 | Fewer jobs, mostly dams |
| Colorado | $45,000 – $100,000 | Some reservoir and pipeline work |
| Nevada | $40,000 – $90,000 | Limited but growing opportunities |
How Much Do Underwater Welders Make In Virginia?
My Final Thoughts
So, how much do underwater welders make in Arizona? On average, expect $40,000 to over $100,000 a year, depending on how experienced and qualified you are. It’s not easy work, but if you stick with it, it can become a high-paying and fulfilling career.
My advice? Train smart, stay safe, and be open to every opportunity. The more you dive in (literally!), the more you’ll earn and grow.