Hello friends,
I’m James Clark, an experienced underwater welder working across the U.S., and today I want to talk about a question many people ask me:“What’s the underwater welder salary in Indiana?”If you live in Indiana or plan to work here as an underwater welder, this guide is just for you. I’ll keep everything simple, clear, and based on real-world experience.
Is Underwater Welding a Career Option in Indiana?
Absolutely!
Indiana might not be an ocean state, but it has rivers, lakes, dams, bridges, shipyards, and other industrial zones that need skilled underwater welders. From inland ports to infrastructure maintenance, there are several places here where underwater welding is in demand.
You’ll often find work on the Ohio River, around Lake Michigan, and in cities like Evansville, Jeffersonville, and Portage.
Average Underwater Welder Salary in Indiana
So, let’s get straight to the point.
What is the underwater welder salary in Indiana? It depends on your experience, certifications, and job type. But here’s a rough breakdown:
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Monthly Pay | Yearly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $22 – $30 | $3,500 – $4,800 | $42,000 – $58,000 |
| Mid-Level (2–5 yrs) | $30 – $40 | $5,000 – $6,500 | $58,000 – $78,000 |
| Experienced (5+ yrs) | $40 – $55+ | $6,500 – $8,500+ | $78,000 – $105,000+ |
These numbers can go higher with offshore projects, hazardous tasks, or emergency repairs.
What Affects Underwater Welder Salary in Indiana?
Your underwater welder salary in Indiana can depend on several important factors:
1. Experience: The more experience you have, the more you can earn. Welders with several completed projects and a strong work history usually get higher-paying jobs.
2. Certifications: If you have advanced certifications in diving and welding, you’re more likely to be chosen for well-paying projects. Specialized training shows employers you’re skilled and reliable.
3. Job Location: Some job sites, especially near ports, large rivers, or industrial zones, offer better pay due to the complexity or size of the project.
4. Type of Work: Jobs that are risky — like deep-sea dives, emergency repairs, or hazardous environments — usually pay more to match the challenge.
5. Seasonal Demand: Summer is a busy time for underwater construction. There are more projects available, which often leads to better pay.
Where Do Underwater Welders Work in Indiana?
You’ll find underwater welders working in places like:
- Bridge construction and maintenance
- Inland ports and shipping areas
- Dams and underwater tunnels
- Water treatment plants
- Power stations and factories near rivers
- Ship repair yards along Lake Michigan
Many of these are ongoing maintenance jobs, which offer good pay and long-term contracts.
Top Employers and Contractors in Indiana
Some common types of employers include:
1. Marine Construction Firms – Handle infrastructure near rivers and lakes.
2. Government Departments – Need welders for bridge and dam maintenance.
3. Industrial Contractors – Work on underwater repairs in plants and factories.
4. Port Authorities – Manage shipping areas where welders are needed regularly.
5. Commercial Diving Companies – Offer services to private clients and the state.
Check job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter for new listings. Also, contact diving schools in nearby states — many help with job placement.
Certifications You’ll Need
To work legally and safely, you’ll need:
- Commercial Diving Certification
- Underwater Welding Certification
- AWS or Equivalent Welder Certification
- First Aid and CPR Training
- Dive Medical Exam Clearance
Training usually costs between $15,000 to $25,000, but it pays off quickly once you’re working full-time.
How Indiana Compares to the National Average
Across the U.S., underwater welders usually make $50,000 to $80,000/year. The underwater welder salary in Indiana is very competitive, especially for inland jobs. You might not earn offshore-level wages, but you’ll have more job stability and year-round work.
Cost of Living vs Salary in Indiana
While Indiana offers a slightly lower underwater welder salary than coastal states, the lower cost of living balances it out. Your money goes further — housing, food, and transportation are all more affordable, so you can save more compared to high-cost states like California or New York.
My First Underwater Welding Job in Indiana
I still remember my first job here — fixing steel supports on a bridge near the Ohio River. The water was murky and cold, but the team was great, and I learned fast. That job opened doors for other projects in nearby cities, including shipyard maintenance and dam inspections.
If you’re new, start small. Get experience, stay safe, and build a strong reputation. That’s how you grow in this field.
How Much Do Underwater Welders Make In Oregon?
My Final Thoughts
So, how much do underwater welders make in Indiana?
Well, if you’re trained, certified, and ready to work hard — you can earn anywhere from $42,000 to over $105,000 per year, depending on your experience and job type.
Indiana might not be on the ocean, but it offers steady, rewarding work for underwater welders. If you’re thinking about this career, don’t wait — get your training, follow safety rules, and dive into a job that pays well and keeps you challenged.