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Associate Welder Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Welding Supervisor

Farmington, MN · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

Bachelors with 6+ years relevant experience or associate's degree with 8+ years relevant experience or 10+ years of relevant experience * The ability to obtain Certified Welding Inspector (CWI ...

Construction Materials Technician II

Rochester, MN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI) * American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the following areas: Visual ...

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI) * American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the following areas: Visual ...

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI) * American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the following areas: Visual ...

Construction Materials Technician II

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Associate Welding Inspector (CAWI) * American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one of the following areas: Visual ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Welder information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$17

$27

How much do associate welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate welder in Minnesota is $17.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.38 and $19.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate welder?

Associate Welders are entry-level professionals who perform welding tasks under the supervision of experienced welders or supervisors. They are responsible for assembling, installing, and repairing metal components using various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, or arc welding. Associate Welders typically work in manufacturing, construction, or industrial settings, and their duties include reading blueprints, preparing materials, and ensuring weld quality and safety. This position is ideal for individuals starting their careers in welding, as it provides hands-on experience and opportunities for skill development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate welder?

To thrive as an Associate Welder, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, usually supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in welding. Familiarity with tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as adherence to OSHA safety standards, are typically required. Attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and strong teamwork skills help set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing precise, high-quality welds while maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

What types of welding projects and materials will I typically work with as an associate welder?

As an Associate Welder, you will commonly work on a variety of projects ranging from basic fabrication to repairs, often under the supervision of more experienced welders. The materials you are most likely to encounter include steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, utilizing techniques such as MIG, TIG, or stick welding. Your daily tasks may involve preparing materials, reading blueprints, performing welds, and inspecting finished work for quality and safety standards. This role provides hands-on experience and exposure to different welding processes, serving as a strong foundation for career advancement.

What is the difference between Associate Welder vs Apprentice Welder?

AspectAssociate WelderApprentice Welder
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and welding certificationsUsually in training, may hold basic certifications or none
Work ExperienceHas completed training and can perform welding tasks independentlyLearning on the job, limited independent work
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, construction sites, manufacturing plantsTraining environments, supervised work sites
Job RolePerforms welding tasks independently, may assist in projectsAssists experienced welders, gaining skills and experience

The main difference between an Associate Welder and an Apprentice Welder is experience and certification level. An Associate Welder is trained and qualified to work independently, while an Apprentice Welder is still learning and gaining hands-on experience under supervision. Both roles are essential in the welding industry, but the Associate Welder typically has more skills and responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate welder?

An associate welder can work in manufacturing, construction, shipbuilding, or maintenance industries, performing tasks such as welding, cutting, and fabricating metal components. They often work with tools like arc welders, MIG, or TIG equipment and may need certifications like AWS welding certification to qualify for certain positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Welder jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Welder jobs in Minnesota?

For Associate Welder jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Welder jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Welder jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Welder jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Welder job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Welder job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,407 per year, or $17 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer (Robotic Weld)

Standard Iron

Sauk Centre, MN • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Standard Iron rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Standard Iron is a leading U.S.-based manufacturing partner specializing in metal fabrication, complex weldments, custom fuel & hydraulic tanks and architectural metals. With 90+ years of experience and seven advanced facilities across North America, we help our customers solve problems, not just fill orders. Whether you’re launching a new product, improving throughput, or optimizing for cost, we build solutions tailored to your needs.

Statement of the Job

Standard Iron is a leading U.S.-based manufacturing partner specializing in metal fabrication, complex weldments, custom fuel & hydraulic tanks and architectural metals. With 90+ years of experience and seven advanced facilities across North America, we help our customers solve problems, not just fill orders. Whether you’re launching a new product, improving throughput, or optimizing for cost, we build solutions tailored to your needs.

Primary Job Focus

This role is heavily focused on robotic weld programming, weld process development, and weld quality optimization. Candidates must bring strong hands‑on experience in robotic welding systems and weld parameter development.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, program, and optimize robotic welding applications (e.g., FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa/Motoman, KUKA).
  • Perform robot teach pendant and/or offline programming for new and existing weld processes.
  • Establish and validate weld parameters (voltage, amperage, travel speed, wire feed speed, gas composition) to meet quality and productivity targets.
  • Program and optimize other CNC equipment (e.g., laser cutters, turret punches, press brakes, tube benders) using software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or nesting programs.
  • Develop, evaluate, and improve manufacturing processes for sheet metal fabrication, including laser cutting, punching, bending, forming, welding, and assembly.
  • Design and validate tooling, fixtures, and jigs to enhance precision and efficiency in fabrication operations.
  • Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by reviewing client designs for manufacturability (DFM), developing weld sequences, tooling requirements, and process documentation.
  • Troubleshoot production issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions for quality and process problems. Troubleshoot robotic weld issues related to fit‑up, distortion, porosity, spatter, lack of fusion, etc.
  • Analyze production workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement lean manufacturing principles (e.g., Six Sigma, Kaizen) to reduce waste, improve cycle times, and increase throughput.
  • Collaborate with clients, sales, quality assurance, and production teams to ensure projects meet specifications, quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001/AS9100), and delivery schedules.
  • Contribute to continuous cost reduction initiatives.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry best practices.
  • Lead or participate in capital equipment justification, selection, and implementation projects. Interface with integrators and equipment suppliers for installation, startup, and upgrades of robotic weld cells.
  • Train production staff on new processes and maintain accurate documentation for repeatability across contract runs.
Qualifications and Requirements
  • Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Welding Technology, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 3–7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, preferably in sheet metal fabrication or contract manufacturing with an emphasis on programming industrial robots for welding applications.
  • Strong knowledge of sheet metal processes (e.g., shearing, laser/plasma cutting, forming, MIG/TIG welding, finishing).
  • Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Nesting software) and ERP/MRP systems.
  • Experience with lean manufacturing tools, process optimization, and quality systems (e.g., PFMEA, control plans).
  • Excellent problem‑solving skills with hands‑on experience in root cause analysis and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and weld symbols (AWS standards preferred).
  • Ability to support multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with industry standards (e.g., AWS welding, ASTM materials) is a plus.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with offline programming software (e.g., RoboGuide, RobotStudio, MotoSim, Delmia).
  • Experience with both Fanuc and ABB programming software.
  • Knowledge of advanced welding technologies: Vision‑guided welding, Laser seam tracking, Through‑arc seam tracking (TAST), Adaptive welding system.
  • Familiarity with welding codes and standards (AWS D1.1, ISO standards, etc.).
  • Ability to simulate weld paths, reach, and cycle times virtually.
  • Experience in Lean Six Sigma with a strong problem‑solving and continuous improvement mindset.
  • Experience in a contract manufacturing or job shop environment with variable production runs.
  • Knowledge of automation and robotics in fabrication.
  • An understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • CAD/CAM experience.
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