In short
Most boilermakers train through an apprenticeship that combines paid work with classes in welding, rigging and blueprint reading. Boilermakers earned a median $76,410 in May 2025, per BLS. It is a small trade, about 10,200 jobs, and BLS projects a decline of 1.8% in employment by 2035, so openings mostly come from retirements. Travel to outage work is common.
| Middle pay | $76,410 a year, roughly $36.74 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | High school or GED to start, then apprenticeship |
| People in the trade | About 10,200 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | Projected a decline of 1.8% |
| Openings a year | Around 700, counting retirements |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
What it takes
- Welding skill, often to code
- Comfort with heights and confined spaces
- Willingness to travel and work long shifts
- Rigging heavy pieces
Start with welding training
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Straight answers
How much travel do boilermakers do?
Often a lot, following shutdowns and outages at plants.
Is boilermaker a growing trade?
BLS projects little change. Openings mostly come from retirements.
Do boilermakers weld?
Yes, welding is a core part of the job.