Scaffolder Salary Guide
A scaffolder assembles, installs, inspects and dismantles temporary work platforms and support structures used in construction, maintenance, and repair projects. Responsibilities include reading plans, selecting materials, following safety procedures, securing platforms, and coordinating with site teams to provide safe, efficient access at height.
What is the average Scaffolder salary?
Entry Level
$35,000 - $45,000 per year
Mid Level
$45,000 - $65,000 per year
Senior Level
$65,000 - $90,000+ per year
How does Scaffolder salary grow with experience?
Scaffolder salary by location
What factors affect a Scaffolder's salary?
- Certification and safety training (OSHA, IPAF, CISRS, rigging, fall protection)
- Union membership and local collective bargaining agreements
- Project type and risk level (high-rise, industrial, maintenance, specialty scaffolding)
- Geographic location and cost of living
- Experience level and supervisory responsibilities
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaffolder Salaries
How much does a scaffolder make on average in the U.S.?
Average U.S. pay for scaffolders typically ranges from about $40,000 to $75,000 per year depending on experience, location, and union status; entry-level starts near $35K while senior scaffolders can earn $65K–$90K or more.
What certifications increase a scaffolder's pay?
Certifications such as OSHA 10/30, CISRS (UK equivalent often relevant for international employers), SSA or IPAF powered access training, and specialized rigging or fall-protection certificates commonly increase pay by demonstrating safety and technical skills.
Do scaffolders earn more when they join a union?
Yes. Union scaffolders generally earn higher base wages, better overtime premiums, and stronger benefits compared with non-union peers; total compensation can be 10%–30% higher depending on the local union contract.
How does location affect scaffolder wages?
Wages vary markedly by region: large metropolitan and high-cost areas (e.g., New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles) typically pay higher hourly rates to offset living costs and project demand, while rural areas pay lower rates.
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