Entry Level Railcar Repairman - Decatur, IL Job Location: DREI Main Office-62521 Office Location ... completed 5F welding qualification test for pipe • Ensure compliance with all federal ...
Entry Level Railcar Repairman - Decatur, IL Job Location: DREI Main Office-62521 Office Location ... completed 5F welding qualification test for pipe • Ensure compliance with all federal ...
Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Proficient in using a cutting torch in all positions without causing damage to adjoining parts; successfully completed 5F welding qualification test for pipe ...
Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Proficient in using a cutting torch in all positions without causing damage to adjoining parts; successfully completed 5F welding qualification test for pipe ...
Quality Specialist - Kiewit Industrial
Decatur, IL · On-site
$88K - $90K/yr
Requisition ID: 180952 Job Level: Entry Level Home District/Group: Kiewit Industrial District ... Bachelor's degree in Welding Technology, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field ...
Quality Specialist - Kiewit Industrial
Decatur, IL · On-site
$88K - $90K/yr
Requisition ID: 180952 Job Level: Entry Level Home District/Group: Kiewit Industrial District ... Bachelor's degree in Welding Technology, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field ...
Entry Level Welder information
See Decatur, IL salary details
$13.76 - $15.26
2% of jobs
$15.26 - $16.77
8% of jobs
$16.77 - $18.27
13% of jobs
$18.45 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$18.27 - $19.78
16% of jobs
The median wage is $20.76 / hr.
$19.78 - $21.28
17% of jobs
$21.28 - $22.79
13% of jobs
$23.57 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$22.79 - $24.29
13% of jobs
$24.29 - $25.80
7% of jobs
$25.80 - $27.30
5% of jobs
$27.30 - $28.81
4% of jobs
$28.81 - $30.31
2% of jobs
$13
$21
$30
How much do entry level welder jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welder in Decatur, IL is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Welder, and why are they important?
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 is the difference between Entry Level Welder vs Apprentice Welder?
| Aspect | Entry Level Welder | Apprentice Welder |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Basic welding certifications often preferred | Typically working towards certifications |
| Work Environment | Manufacturing, construction, fabrication shops | On-the-job training in similar environments |
| Experience | Minimal or no prior experience required | Training phase, learning skills on the job |
| Job Role | Performing basic welding tasks under supervision | Learning 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.
What Do Entry-Level Welders Do?
Welders fuse metal together using intense heat to create parts for a project or to reinforce structures. They work in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, construction, automotive, aerospace, health care, maritime, and oil drilling. Entry-level welders typically train on the job and start out as an assistant to an experienced welder to learn the trade. As an entry-level welder, you help the primary welder execute projects according to the client’s specifications and needs. You must you must be able to read blueprints, follow technical instructions, and understand the properties of different welding metals, including brass, aluminum, and stainless steel.
What does an entry level welder do?
An entry level welder is responsible for joining metal parts together using various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, or stick welding. They read blueprints, set up equipment, and ensure welds meet safety and quality standards. Entry level welders typically work under the supervision of experienced welders and may assist with basic fabrication, assembly, and maintenance tasks as they gain hands-on experience. This position is a great starting point for those looking to build a career in welding and metal fabrication.
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.
More about Entry Level Welder jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Decatur, IL? The most popular types of Welder jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Welder jobs in Decatur, IL? For Entry Level Welder jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welder jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welder jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Welder jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Welder job openings:
Watco rating
6.7
Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
251st of 355 rated logistics
Job description
Entry Level Railcar Repairman - Decatur, IL
Job Location: DREI Main Office-62521
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
Responsible for rail car inspection, maintenance and repairs in accordance with FRA and AAR regulations. Must re-rail cars and provide estimate damages at derailment sites, make out billing repair cards in compliance with AAR office manual, and identify AAR/FRA violations when present on railcars. This job description is general and illustrative of the type of duties required for this position. This description is not all inclusive and is not meant to be a detailed description of each duty performed by the incumbent of the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Proficient in using a cutting torch in all positions without causing damage to adjoining parts; successfully completed 5F welding qualification test for pipe
• Ensure compliance with all federal requirements, company guidelines, and safety regulations while performing duties
• Reads and interprets blueprints accurately
• Performs repairs on both foreign and fleet vehicles
• Adheres to FRA and AAR regulations when conducting car repairs
• Maintains accurate records of all repairs performed
• Operates mobile cranes, wheel trucks, and forklifts safely and effectively
• Collaborates with other departments during derailment site operations
• Perform additional duties as assigned
Qualifications
• Driver's License
Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent
Job Location: DREI Main Office-62521
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
Responsible for rail car inspection, maintenance and repairs in accordance with FRA and AAR regulations. Must re-rail cars and provide estimate damages at derailment sites, make out billing repair cards in compliance with AAR office manual, and identify AAR/FRA violations when present on railcars. This job description is general and illustrative of the type of duties required for this position. This description is not all inclusive and is not meant to be a detailed description of each duty performed by the incumbent of the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Proficient in using a cutting torch in all positions without causing damage to adjoining parts; successfully completed 5F welding qualification test for pipe
• Ensure compliance with all federal requirements, company guidelines, and safety regulations while performing duties
• Reads and interprets blueprints accurately
• Performs repairs on both foreign and fleet vehicles
• Adheres to FRA and AAR regulations when conducting car repairs
• Maintains accurate records of all repairs performed
• Operates mobile cranes, wheel trucks, and forklifts safely and effectively
• Collaborates with other departments during derailment site operations
• Perform additional duties as assigned
Qualifications
• Driver's License
Education
Must be 18 years of age or older with High School or GED equivalent