Embarking on a career as a welder in San Francisco, CA, often begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with technical training. Apprenticeships typically span three to four years, demanding extensive on-the-job training under seasoned professionals. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 771,000 welding professionals in the U.S., with a median annual salary of $45,190. In San Francisco, the average weekly wage for welders is $1,546, with experienced professionals earning up to $2,100 weekly. Trade schools, welding unions, and platforms like Gild facilitate apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a rewarding career with significant earning potential.
