Welders on the State Payroll

Welders working for the Illinois Toll Highway Authority received average annual wages 73% higher than the average for welders in Illinois.

by Amanda Griffin-Johnson

Using our transparency website, IllinoisOpenGov.org, I found that in 2008, the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority spent $432,828.44 on wages for seven welders. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that “Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers” in Illinois in 2008 received average annual wages of $35,590. The State Toll Highway Authority welders received average annual wages of $61,832.63 – over 73% higher than the average wages for welders in Illinois.

To find this information on the IllinoisOpenGov site, go to “Payroll” and search for “Welder” in the “Position” field.