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Entry Level Welder Jobs in Meridian, MS (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler

Meridian, MS · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

... room/welding equipment, forklift truck operation, personal protective equipment, and material ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Entry Level Welder information

See Meridian, MS salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do entry level welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welder in Meridian, MS is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $24.28 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Meridian, MS?

The most popular types of Welder jobs in Meridian, MS are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Welder jobs in Meridian, MS?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welder jobs in Meridian, MS look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welder jobs in Meridian, MS are:

What cities near Meridian, MS are hiring for Entry Level Welder jobs?

Cities near Meridian, MS with the most Entry Level Welder job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Welder job openings in Meridian, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,417 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Material Handler

Autokiniton

Meridian, MS • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Autokiniton rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

352nd of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

Material Handler - Production

We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i- TAHN )

AUTOKINITON delivers operational excellence, high-quality execution, and customer service. We offer 100% vertical integration capabilities such as end-to-end engineering, manufacturing, and in-house logistics.

We’re proud of our Tier 1 supplier legacy for manufacturing propulsion-agnostic, structural automotive components, and assemblies around the globe.

To help us drive excellence, you’ll get to:

  • Moves levers and presses pedals to drive truck and control movement of lifting apparatus. Operate Hilo truck safely and efficiently and in accordance with MIOSHA and company standards.

  • Unloads and stacks material by raising and lowering lifting device. Weighs materials or products and records weight on tags, labels or production schedules.

  • Loads or unloads materials onto or off of pallets, skids or lifting device.

  • Recharges batteries, fills fuel tank or replaces liquefied gas tank.

  • Performs all duties and operates machinery & equipment according to MIOSHA standards and company procedures using required safety equipment (gloves, sleeves, ear plugs, etc.).

  • Ensures correct tagging is on all containers prior to moving. Completes safety and operational checks daily.

  • WIP Area Drivers:

    • Maintain Partial Containers, ensure WIP area is neat and organized, maintain tag inventory board
  • Help in departmental operation wherever necessary.

  • Punctual and regular attendance is required. Able and willing to work any shift assigned.

  • Keeps work areas clean and orderly. Assumes other duties as directed by supervisor.

This Full-Time, hourly role is a part of our Autokiniton - Belleville Plant 2 team and reports to the Operations Coordinator.

Required experience:

Required Skills
  • Michigan forklift truck operators permit required
  • Excellent safety record
  • Able to communicate well with others
  • Must be able to work with minimal supervision
  • Knowledge and understanding of MIOSHA standards relating to set-up procedures, lockout, operation of press room/welding equipment, forklift truck operation, personal protective equipment, and material hazards required.

Education and/or Experience:

High school Diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and /or training; or equivalent combination of education or experience

Language Skills :

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

Mathematical Skills :

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentage and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability:

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

Working conditions:

· We’ll provide position-specific details including physical and focused efforts, working environment and conditions, and reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Where you’ll be:

This position is located at our Belleville – Plant 2 facility in Belleville, MI., offering many community events, resources, programs, and recreational opportunities for you and your family.

Community features:

· Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions.

· Close to major highways

· Near coffee shops and restaurants.

Why you’ll enjoy working here:

Competitive Wages and Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with Company contribution match, and 14 paid holidays, including a bridge holiday in December.

Work-Life Balance: Many of our Associates have stayed with us for 25+ years! It takes a good work-life balance to make it that far. We support your personal and professional priorities as they impact your well-being.

Growth Opportunities: Take your career to the next level through tuition reimbursement programs, on-the-job training, learning management systems, and advancement opportunities from within our organization.

Learning and Development: We empower all our Associates – from entry-level to senior-level – with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their current roles and beyond at AUTOKINITON.

AUTOKINITON Promotes a dynamic and collaborative work environment for everyone.

AUTOKINITON is an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. AUTOKINITON makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

Required Skills

Required Experience


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