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Entry Level Welder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nikkiso Cryogenic Industries

Welder I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a motivated and dependable Entry-Level Welder to join our team. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start or further develop a career in welding and ...

Nikkiso Cryogenic Industries

Welder I

Murrieta, CA

$22 - $26/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a motivated and dependable Entry-Level Welder to join our team. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start or further develop a career in welding and ...

Nikkiso Cryogenic Industries

Welder I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Job Overview We are seeking a motivated and dependable Entry-Level Welder to join our team. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start or further develop a career in welding and ...

Nikkiso Cryogenic Industries

Welder I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

We are seeking a motivated and dependable Entry-Level Welder to join our team. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start or further develop a career in welding and fabrication within a ...

CRH

Welder (entry level)

Fontana, CA · On-site

$27.63/hr

Welder (entry level) Infrastructure Products Group Fontana, California, United States Job ID: 528002 Non-Exempt Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are ...

PlayCore

Welder - Compumeric

Ontario, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

The welding requirements may vary widely depending on the job being offered, this could include that some positions may be on the job for entry-level positions. Higher-level welder positions may ...

CRH

Welder (entry level)

Fontana, CA

$27.63/hr

Welding parts together per specifications * Other duties may be assigned as needed Job Requirements * Must have experience in steel fabrication, at least 1 year is preferred * High school diploma ...

Aerotek

Mig Welder

Brea, CA

$20 - $22/hr

Job Title: Entry Level MIG Welder - Flatbed Commercial Body Manufacturing Join a high-volume manufacturing facility as a MIG Welder, producing commercial flatbed bodies using horizontal and vertical ...

New

Entegris

Weld Examiner

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Weld Examiner Weld Examiner The Role: Entegris is currently seeking a Weld Examiner to join our ... Entegris does not intend to hire experienced or entry level job seekers who will need, now or in ...

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All JobsWelder JobsEntry Level Welder JobsEntry Level Welder Jobs in California

Entry Level Welder information

See California salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do entry level welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welder in California is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Welder, you need basic welding knowledge, manual dexterity, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with welding equipment, ability to read blueprints, and certifications like AWS Certified Welder are commonly required. Reliability, willingness to learn, and teamwork are important soft skills that help new welders succeed. These skills and qualities ensure safe, accurate, and efficient work in manufacturing, construction, and repair environments.

What are some common challenges entry level welders face during their first year on the job?

Entry level welders often encounter challenges such as adapting to different welding techniques, maintaining safety standards, and working efficiently under supervision. Many find it takes time to perfect steady hand movements and to read blueprints or technical drawings accurately. Additionally, adjusting to the physical demands of welding—like standing for long hours or working in confined spaces—can be tough initially. However, with guidance from experienced team members and consistent practice, most new welders overcome these hurdles and become proficient in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Welder vs Apprentice Welder?

AspectEntry Level WelderApprentice Welder
CertificationsBasic welding certifications often preferredTypically working towards certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, construction, fabrication shopsOn-the-job training in similar environments
ExperienceMinimal or no prior experience requiredTraining phase, learning skills on the job
Job RolePerforming basic welding tasks under supervisionLearning and assisting with welding tasks

Entry Level Welders are ready to perform basic welding tasks with minimal experience, often holding certifications. Apprentice Welders are in training, gaining hands-on experience under supervision to develop their skills. Both roles are common in manufacturing and construction industries, but apprentices focus on learning and certification attainment.

How much do entry level welders make?

Entry-level welders typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on location, industry, and the welder's certifications and skills.
More about Entry Level Welder jobs

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

The most popular types of Welder jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Welder jobs in California?

For Entry Level Welder jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welder jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welder jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Welder jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Welder job openings:

Entry Level Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welder job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,695 per year, or $22 per hour.

Welder I

Nikkiso Cryogenic Industries

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases is a leading provider of cryogenic pumps, heat exchangers, process systems, services, and solutions for the LNG and industrial gases industry. We are a subsidiary of Nikkiso Company Ltd, a leading industrial manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with over $1.5 B in annual revenue, 8000 + employees worldwide, and publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Job Overview
We are seeking a motivated and dependable Entry-Level Welder to join our team. This position is ideal for individuals looking to start or further develop a career in welding and fabrication within a manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will assist with cutting, fitting, and welding metal components while learning industry best practices, safety standards, and quality requirements.
A weld test will be required to interview for this role.
Rate
$22 - $26/hr
Responsibilities
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Read blueprints and drawings and take or read measurements to plan layout and procedures
  • Determine the appropriate welding equipment or method based on requirements
  • Set up components for welding according to specifications
  • Operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded
  • Align components using calipers, rulers etc. and clamp pieces
  • Weld components using manual or semi-automatic welding equipment in various positions (vertical, horizontal, or overhead)
  • Able to determine that weld meets ASME specifications
  • Maintain equipment in a condition that does not compromise safety

Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Environment
This job operates in a warehouse environment. This role routinely utilizes the operation of material handling equipment and various tools and machinery.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. This would require the ability to lift and work with various materials and/or tools, as well as work and bend at different heights, in various temperatures, and be on feet for an extended period of time.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • Experience using a variety of welding equipment and procedures (GTAW, SMAW, FCAW)
  • Experience in using electrical or manual tools (saws, squares, calipers etc.)
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings
  • Knowledge of relative safety standards and willingness to use protective clothing (face-shield, gloves etc.)
  • Minimum 6 months welding and fabrication experience
  • Professional Certification (AWS welding certificate) will be a plus

Entry-Level Development Program
This is an entry-level welder position designed for individuals seeking to develop their welding and fabrication skills within a manufacturing environment. To ensure successful onboarding and skill development, candidates hired for this position will initially be employed through Nikkiso's temporary staffing agency for a minimum of ninety (90) days. Continued employment consideration as a direct Nikkiso employee will be based on attendance, performance, safety, quality, and overall business needs.
During the temporary employment period, the Welder will be partnered with a senior-level welder who will provide hands-on training, mentorship, and guidance on welding techniques, blueprint interpretation, safety practices, quality standards, and company procedures. The successful candidate must demonstrate a willingness to learn, accept feedback, and continuously develop their technical skills.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
EEOC Statement
Nikkiso CE&IG is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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