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Average Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters Salary in Washington

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in Washington earn an impressive average annual salary of $69,680, significantly surpassing the national average of $52,680. This elevated compensation is often driven by the state's robust industrial sector and specialized manufacturing needs, which create a higher demand for skilled metalworking professionals.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $69,680 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 41.1% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $111,260.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,190 Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters, Washington demonstrates a solid presence in this skilled trade. The Location Quotient of 0.97 indicates that the concentration of these professionals is nearly on par with the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for their expertise within the state's economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$69,680

The average Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in Washington earns+32.3%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$33.5

Weekly

$1,340

Monthly

$5,807

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters Salary Distribution in Washington

Career progression for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior fabricators with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries well above the average, reflected in the higher percentiles of the salary distribution.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$45,640$21.9
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$52,260$25.1
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$63,280$30.4
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$87,100$41.9
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$111,260$53.5

Detailed Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$69,680

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$60,539

Adjusted for COL (115.1)

The average annual salary of $69,680 in Washington presents a strong nominal income. However, with a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, which is 15.1% higher than the national average, the purchasing power of this salary is somewhat tempered. Prospective workers should factor in these higher living expenses when considering relocation.

Job Market Context

1,190

Total Jobs

0.335

Per 1K Jobs

0.97

Location Quotient

Below Average

Washington has 0.97x the national average concentration of Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

A Location Quotient of 0.97 suggests that Washington's market for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters is very close to the national average in terms of concentration. This indicates a balanced job market where demand and supply are relatively aligned, meaning opportunities exist without being overly saturated or scarce.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters

Comparing salaries near Washington

Hiring Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitterss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters make in Washington?

The median annual salary for a Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in Washington is $69,680. This typically ranges from $45,640 for entry-level positions to $111,260 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Washington is 32.3% higher than the national median of $52,680.

Is Washington a lucrative place for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters?

Yes, Washington offers a lucrative environment for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters.The average salary of $69,680 significantly exceeds the national average, providing a strong income base despite a higher cost of living.

Is Washington a good place to live for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters?

The Cost of Living Index in Washington is 115.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Washington?

Some top paying nearby cities include Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($77,360) and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA.

How does Washington's salary for this role compare to the national average?

Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in Washington earn approximately $17,000 more annually than the national average, reflecting higher local demand and potentially specialized industry needs.

What is the impact of the Cost of Living Index on this salary?

The Cost of Living Index in Washington is 115.1, meaning that while the nominal salary is high, the actual purchasing power is reduced due to higher expenses for goods and services compared to the national average.

Is the job market for Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters in Washington highly concentrated?

The job market is nearly on par with the national average, with a Location Quotient of 0.97. This suggests a stable and balanced market rather than one with exceptionally high or low concentration.

How many Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters are employed in Washington?

There are approximately 1,190 Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters employed in Washington, contributing to the state's industrial and construction sectors.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,190 employees in the Washington area with a job density of 0.335 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.