TradesOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Welder Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$77,879/yr
Typical range: $68,099 – $97,996
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Welder salary by experience level in Washington DC
Welder Salary Progression in Washington DC
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $58,818 | $4,902 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $70,254 | $5,855 | +19% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $77,879 | $6,490 | +32% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $85,285 | $7,107 | +45% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $99,663 | $8,305 | +69% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $110,119 | $9,177 | +87% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $112,734 | $9,395 | +92% |
Current Salary
$77,879
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $37/hr
Next Level Target
$85,285
Senior · 6
+$7Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
30/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Welder salary in Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Welders in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $78K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Welder make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $78K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $37/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Welder in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Welder in Washington DC, DC earns $98K–$115K/yr.