Hello friends,
I’m an underwater welder James Clark, and today I want to talk about something many people ask me — how much do underwater welders make in Virginia? If you’re thinking about getting into this job or you’re just curious, let me explain it in simple words.
Is Underwater Welding a Good Job in Virginia?
Yes, it can be! But let me be honest — it’s not an easy job. You need special training, diving certifications, and welding skills. You’ll be working in deep water, wearing heavy gear, and sometimes in risky conditions. But the pay can be very good, especially if you’re experienced and willing to work hard.
Average Underwater Welder Salary in Virginia
The underwater welder salary in Virginia depends on how much experience you have, where you work, and the type of job you’re doing. Here’s a rough idea of how much you can expect to earn:
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Weekly Pay | Monthly Pay | Yearly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Welder | $25 – $35 | $1,000 – $1,400 | $4,000 – $6,000 | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| Mid-Level (2–5 yrs) | $35 – $45 | $1,400 – $1,800 | $6,000 – $7,800 | $70,000 – $90,000 |
| Experienced (5+ yrs) | $45 – $60+ | $1,800 – $2,400+ | $7,800 – $10,000+ | $90,000 – $120,000+ |
What Affects the Underwater Welder Salary in Virginia?
Here are a few things that can increase (or decrease) your pay as an underwater welder:
1. Experience – If you’re just starting out, your pay will be lower. But with time and skill, it grows.
2. Certifications – The more qualified you are (especially in diving and welding), the better jobs you’ll get.
3. Location – If you’re working offshore or in areas with high demand, you’ll earn more.
4. Type of Work – Emergency jobs, deep-sea projects, or work on oil rigs usually pay more than regular maintenance.
5. Danger Level – The riskier the job, the higher the pay.
Certifications Required to Become an Underwater Welder in Virginia
To work as an underwater welder in Virginia, you need to complete a few important certifications. These prove that you’re trained, safe, and ready for the job.
1. Commercial Diving Certification
You must be a certified commercial diver. Most welders get this from schools approved by the Association of Commercial Diving Educators (ACDE) or the Diver Certification Board of Canada (DCBC). This training teaches you how to dive safely while working underwater.
2. Underwater Welding Training
After your diving course, you need to complete underwater welding training. This shows that you can weld properly while under pressure and in different water conditions.
3. Welding Certifications
You’ll also need a standard welding certificate — like the ones approved by the American Welding Society (AWS). These prove you know your welding techniques and safety.
4. First Aid and CPR Certification
Safety matters a lot. Most employers require basic first aid and CPR certification, especially for offshore or deep-sea jobs.
5. Medical Clearance to Dive
Before starting, you need to pass a dive medical exam by a certified diving doctor. This makes sure you’re healthy enough to handle the physical stress of underwater work.
These certifications not only make you qualified but also help you earn more and get better jobs. Always keep your training and documents up to date.
Cost of Training in Virginia
If you’re planning to become an underwater welder in Virginia, you’ll need to invest in training first. Most commercial diving schools in the U.S. charge between $15,000 and $25,000 for full programs, depending on the school and the type of certification included. Welding certifications might cost extra.
It’s not cheap — but if you stick with it and work hard, you’ll earn it back in your first year or two on the job.
Top Locations for Underwater Welding Jobs in Virginia
In Virginia, there are many ports, shipyards, and coastal job sites — especially around Norfolk, Newport News, and Chesapeake Bay. These areas have a high demand for underwater welders due to constant ship repair and infrastructure work.
Some welders also work on offshore projects or with companies involved in oil and gas near the Atlantic coast.
Top Companies Hiring Underwater Welders in Virginia
You can find jobs with:
1. Marine construction companies
2. Ship repair yards
3. Oil and gas companies
4. Government contractors
5. Offshore maintenance teams
Jobs are often posted on sites like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and LinkedIn. Certifications from organizations like DCBC, ADC, or AWS can help you stand out.
Tips for Finding Your First Job
Starting out can feel tough, but here are a few things that helped me:
1. Apply to inland diving jobs or small contractors first to get hands-on experience.
2. Keep your certifications and medicals up to date — some companies won’t even look at your resume if these are missing.
3. Use job boards like Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and LinkedIn, but also check local marine contractors in Norfolk and Newport News directly.
Perks & Benefits You Might Get
Besides your salary, some companies offer extra perks, especially for offshore or high-risk jobs. These might include:
- Paid travel and accommodation
- Hazard pay for deep or risky dives
- Health insurance and retirement plans
- Meal allowances when working away from home
These extras can really boost your income — sometimes by $10,000+ a year.
Is It Worth Becoming an Underwater Welder in Virginia?
If you’re someone who enjoys physical work, loves the water, and isn’t afraid of a challenge — then yes, it can be worth it. The underwater welder salary in Virginia is strong compared to many other skilled jobs, especially when you’re experienced.
But remember, it’s not just about the money. You need to be mentally and physically prepared for the demands of the job. Safety always comes first.
How Does Virginia Compare to Nearby States?
Virginia offers good underwater welding pay, but it’s also very competitive. Here’s a quick comparison:
| State | Avg Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $50,000 – $120,000 | Strong shipyard and port work |
| North Carolina | $45,000 – $100,000 | Fewer marine jobs, but growing market |
| Maryland | $55,000 – $115,000 | Some offshore and government projects |
If you’re flexible, it’s worth keeping your eyes open in nearby states too.
My First Job Experience
I’ll never forget my first real job as an underwater welder. It was in Chesapeake Bay, fixing some pilings in cold, muddy water. The pay wasn’t the highest, but I learned so much — and it opened the door to bigger contracts later. If you’re just starting, don’t say no to small gigs. Every job teaches you something new.
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My Final Thoughts
So, how much do underwater welders make in Virginia? On average, you can expect anywhere from $50,000 to over $100,000 per year, depending on experience and job type. It’s a tough career, but for the right person, it can be rewarding — both in pay and pride.
If you’re thinking of getting into underwater welding, my advice is: get certified, stay safe, and never stop learning. The ocean is challenging, but the rewards can be great.