Welder Hourly Pay in Bloomington, MN: $30.39 (2026)

Focusing on part-time work, a welder in Bloomington working a typical 24-hour week can expect to earn about $39,000 annually, substantially less than full-time counterparts but still a viable income for many. Per-diem welders often experience lucrative offerings, with daily rates ranging from $80 to $175 on top of hourly wages, depending on their role and location. For instance, traveling pipe welders can earn between $40 and $70 per hour alongside considerable per-diem benefits, while those involved in refinery turnarounds might see rates of $50 to $80 per hour, with the potential for double time on weekends. The hourly pay varies greatly depending on specializations and employer types, such as structural fabrication, oil and gas sectors, or even self-employed ventures, where rig owner-operators can bill up to $160 per hour. Each welder's decision to accept varying rates often hinges on the benefits offered, with some favoring positions that provide health insurance despite lower pay. Effective negotiation strategies in Bloomington can include emphasizing certifications like AWS or NQA-1, or showcasing specialized skills that are in short supply, such as high-level pipe welding expertise.