Welder Career Guide in Idaho
Explore welder salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Idaho.
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How to Become a Welder in Idaho
Welders may train through Idaho technical colleges, union apprenticeships, manufacturing employers, or registered apprenticeship programs. Employers frequently require AWS or procedure-specific certification.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Welder Salary in Idaho
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Idaho median wage for welder workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $51,000, the median wage in Idaho is approximately $470 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Welders in Idaho
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONWelder Training Requirements in Idaho
Welders in Idaho generally prepare through technical education, apprenticeship, or paid employer training.
- Complete hands-on instruction in SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, cutting, fabrication, layout, and blueprint reading.
- Develop proficiency in the metals, joint designs, welding positions, and procedures used by the employer.
- Pass applicable AWS, ASME, API, or employer performance tests for code-controlled work.
- Complete workplace safety instruction covering hot work, ventilation, compressed gases, fall protection, and personal protective equipment.
- Register or work through an appropriately registered contractor when offering construction welding services.
Welder Training Providers in Idaho
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho | Nampa | View Program |
| College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls | View Program |
| Idaho State University College of Technology | Pocatello | View Program |
| North Idaho College | Coeur d’Alene | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESWelder Apprenticeship Programs in Idaho
Welder Licensing Requirements in Idaho
Idaho does not issue a general occupational license for welders. Businesses performing construction must generally register as contractors, and plumbing, HVAC, public-works, pressure-system, or local code requirements may apply depending on the work.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSWelder Job Outlook in Idaho
Idaho projects welder employment to grow from approximately 3,920 jobs in 2024 to 4,430 jobs in 2034. This represents 13% growth and approximately 450 annual openings.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the welder salary in Idaho?
The statewide median wage for welders in Idaho is approximately $50,530 per year, or $24.30 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Idaho require welder licensing?
Licensing requirements for welder workers in Idaho vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Contractor Registration before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become a welder in Idaho?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately 6 Months–2 Years, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are welders in demand in Idaho?
Idaho projects welder employment to grow by approximately 13% from 2024 to 2034, with about 450 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Idaho Wages for Welder (SOC 51-4121) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Welder Wages
- Idaho Welder Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Welder Employment Trends
- Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Contractor Registration — Licensing authority. Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Contractor Registration