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Entry Level Welder Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Hayfield Window and Door

Maintenance Technician

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$19 - $32.62/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... basic welding skills. • Intermediate computer competency with Microsoft Office programs. • ... Entry Level Qualifications: • High school diploma or equivalent required. • Related experience ...

All JobsWelder JobsEntry Level Welder JobsEntry Level Welder Jobs in Rochester, MN

Entry Level Welder information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$14

$22

$31

How much do entry level welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welder in Rochester, MN is $22.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 whether the welder has certifications or specialized skills such as MIG or TIG welding.

How to get a first job as an entry level welder?

To secure an entry-level welder position, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a welding training program or apprenticeship to develop basic skills. Certifications such as the AWS Certified Welder can improve job prospects, and gaining experience with common tools like MIG or TIG welders is beneficial; applying to local manufacturing, construction, or fabrication companies is a common approach.

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 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.

Can I get an entry level welder job with no experience?

Entry level welder positions often do not require prior experience, but employers typically look for basic skills in welding techniques, knowledge of safety procedures, and the ability to operate welding equipment. Completing a welding training program or obtaining a certification can improve chances of employment, even without previous work experience.

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.
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Entry Level Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welder job openings in Rochester, MN 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 $47,065 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer - Product Design & Development (Entry Level)

Valley Craft Industries Inc

Lake City, MN

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description

Valley Craft is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, and production of material handling, storage, and safety related products. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer early in their career who wants exposure to real production hardware, manufacturing support, and product lifecycle ownership. The position emphasizes practical engineering execution, collaboration with manufacturing, and continuous product improvement.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities: 


Product Design & Engineering Execution

  • Design and engineer new products and custom solutions
  • Support existing product designs through design updates, documentation changes, and production support
  • Assist with engineering change requests (ECRs/ECOs) and implementation into production
  • Help diagnose production, quality, or field issues and support corrective actions.


CAD, BOM, and Documentation

  • Create and update 3D models, drawings, and BOMs using SolidWorks
  • Apply company drawing standards, tolerances, weld symbols, and basic GD&T
  • Maintain accurate part data, revisions, and metadata in PDM and MRP systems

Manufacturing & Shop Collaboration

  • Work closely with fabrication, welding, assembly, and quality teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and buildable
  • Support fixture design and basic prototyping as needed
  • Identify potential pinch points, cut hazards, or ergonomic concerns early and help implement improvements

Continuous Improvement

  • Participate in root-cause analysis and problem-solving efforts

Qualifications Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
  • Familiarity with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software
  • Basic understanding of manufacturing processes (welding, machining, sheet metal, fabrication)
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
  • Good written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications Preferred

  • Internship, co-op, or hands-on experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
  • Exposure to lift products, material-handling equipment, or industrial machinery
  • Familiarity with BOMs, revision control, and engineering documentation

Key Attributes for Success

  • Hands-On Mindset: Interested in how products are built, not just designed.
  • Team-Oriented: Works well with manufacturing, quality, and procurement partners.
  • Adaptable: Comfortable handling shifting priorities in a production environment.
  • Detail-Focused: Understands that accurate documentation prevents downstream issues.
  • Growth-Oriented: Eager to build engineering judgment through real-world experience.

Apply