Millwrights play a crucial role in maintaining and assembling industrial machinery, making them indispensable in manufacturing, energy, and construction sectors. If you’re considering this trade or already working as a millwright, understanding the salary outlook for 2025 is essential. This guide breaks down everything from average earnings to factors that influence salary, experience-level pay, and job market trends.
What Is the Average Millwright Salary in 2025?
As of 2025, the average millwright salary in the United States is approximately $66,000 to $78,000 per year, depending on region, industry, and union status. Entry-level positions may start around $45,000, while highly experienced or specialized millwrights can earn well over $100,000 annually.
Quick salary breakdown:
Hourly wage average: $30–$38/hour
Overtime opportunities: Can add $5,000–$10,000+ annually
Union jobs: Often offer higher wages and better benefits
Key Factors That Influence Millwright Salary
Several factors can influence how much a millwright earns:
1. Experience Level
Entry-Level (0–2 years): $45,000–$55,000
Mid-Level (3–7 years): $60,000–$75,000
Senior/Lead Millwright (8+ years): $80,000–$110,000+
2. Location
Wages vary widely across states. For example:
California, Alaska, and New York offer the highest wages ($80,000–$100,000+).
Southern and rural states may offer lower average wages ($50,000–$65,000).
3. Industry Type
Oil & Gas, Power Plants, and Heavy Manufacturing: Highest-paying sectors
Food Processing and Local Government: Tend to offer average or below-average pay
4. Certifications & Specializations
Holding advanced certifications can significantly impact earnings:
Certified Millwright (CMC)
OSHA Safety Training
Welding Certifications (e.g., AWS)
Machinery Alignment or Vibration Analysis Training
These credentials can increase your value to employers, potentially adding $5,000–$15,000 to your annual salary.
Salary vs. Take-Home Pay (e.g., $103K Salary Breakdown)
If you’re earning $103,000 annually, your approximate take-home pay after taxes (federal, state, Social Security, and Medicare) will vary depending on your location and deductions.
Federal taxes: ~$15,000–$20,000
State taxes (if applicable): ~$3,000–$7,000
Other deductions: ~$5,000 (health insurance, retirement, etc.)
Estimated take-home pay: $70,000–$80,000/year or $5,800–$6,700/month
Job Outlook for Millwrights in 2025
The demand for millwrights remains strong and stable:
Job growth: Projected to grow 6–8% through 2030, according to labor market trends.
Automation & tech adoption: As companies automate, millwrights with technical skills in robotics, computer diagnostics, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are in higher demand.
Retirements in the skilled trades are opening up more opportunities for newcomers.
Education and Certification: How They Impact Salary
While many millwrights start through apprenticeships or technical schools, having formal education and certifications can fast-track career growth.
Recommended Pathways:
High School Diploma or GED
Apprenticeship Program (4 years, paid)
Community College or Trade School Certification
Ongoing Training in Mechanical Systems, Hydraulics, and Safety
Certifications that boost salary:
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS)
NCCER Millwright Certification
AWS Certified Welder
OSHA 30-Hour Certification
Benefits Commonly Offered to Millwrights
Aside from salary, millwrights often receive:
Health insurance
Retirement plans (401k or pension)
Paid vacation & holidays
Union protection (where applicable)
Overtime pay and shift differentials
Final Thoughts
Millwrights in 2025 can expect a solid salary, especially as industries modernize and skilled trades become more valuable. With a combination of hands-on experience, certifications, and specialization, you can grow your income steadily and enjoy long-term job stability.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to increase your earnings, focusing on skills, certifications, and location can significantly impact your success as a millwright.