Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders Salary Guide
📍 United States
Discover Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders salaries in 2026 — average pay, salary ranges by experience and location, and tips to negotiate your best offer.
Salary Range
Min
$41k
Median
$48k
Max
$57k
Annual base salary in USD
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders Salary Overview
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenderss are in consistent demand across the United States. The median annual salary for a Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders is approximately $47,920 in 2026, though earnings vary significantly by experience level, location, industry, and specialisation. Set up, operate, or tend welding, soldering, or brazing machines or robots that weld, braze, solder, or heat treat metal products, components, or assemblies. Includes workers who operate laser cutters or laser-beam machines.
Factors That Affect Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders Salary
- → Experience level — entry-level, mid-level, senior, and management roles
- → Industry and employer type — private sector, government, and non-profit
- → Geographic location — major metropolitan areas typically pay above the national median
- → Educational background and relevant certifications
- → In-demand specialisations and technical skills
- → Company size — larger organisations typically offer higher base salaries
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What is the average Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders salary in 2026?
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The median Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders salary in the United States is approximately $47,920 in 2026. Entry-level positions typically start around $40,560, while experienced professionals can earn up to $57,390 or more depending on location, employer, and specialisation.
What factors affect Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders salary the most?
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The biggest drivers of Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders salary are experience level, geographic location, industry, and employer size. Major metro areas like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle typically pay 20–40% above the national median. Specialised certifications and in-demand technical skills also command significant premiums over the base median.
How do I negotiate a higher Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders salary?
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Research current market rates using sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics, LinkedIn Salary, and Glassdoor before any offer discussion. Let the employer make the first offer when possible, then counter with data-backed justification. Always negotiate total compensation — benefits, bonuses, and flexibility — not just base salary.