How much does a welder earn?
Welders permanently join metal components – in steel construction, mechanical and plant engineering, vehicle technology, piping or maintenance. They prepare joints, weld using processes such as MIG/MAG, TIG or stick electrode and check dimensional accuracy and weld quality under high occupational safety requirements. Entry is often via a dual metal apprenticeship (e.g. metalworker, construction mechanic) plus welding certificates, or via dedicated welding courses. Gross pay depends on region, collective agreements, welding process, certificates, shift and site allowances. As a guide, qualified welders in Germany in 2026 often earn about €3,100–€3,700 gross per month; during training around €950–€1,250 is typical.
Salary by region (gross/month)
Guide figures as of 2026. The apprenticeship column refers to typical training pay in related metal trades or during welder qualification; qualified means working welders with relevant experience. Actual pay depends on collective agreements (e.g. metal and electrical industry, steel construction), welding certificates, process (MIG/MAG, TIG, pipe), shift/site allowances, employer, region and experience and is not a guarantee.
Further training options
Job and everyday work
A welder joins metal components to a professional standard: workpieces are prepared, tacked and welded – in the workshop or on site. Everyday work includes welding procedure specifications and drawings, equipment and parameter settings, visual and dimensional checks of welds, and consistent occupational safety around heat, arc light and fire risk.
- Prepare, tack and weld steel, stainless steel or aluminium components to drawing.
- Apply welding processes such as MIG/MAG, TIG or stick electrode correctly; check weld quality and dimensional accuracy.
- Follow welding procedure specifications (WPS), standards and inspection requirements; document results and certificates.
- Set up welding equipment and aids; consistently observe occupational safety, fire safety and PPE.
- Coordinate with design, quality assurance and assembly; carry out rework and repairs.
- Where needed, instruct apprentices or new colleagues on machines and welding processes.
