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

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 Jun 11, 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.

Is 40 too old to start welding?

Entry level welders can start at any age, including 40 or older, as the profession values skills, training, and certifications over age. Many employers appreciate diverse experience, and physical fitness, safety awareness, and proper training are more important than age when beginning a welding career.

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?

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.

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.

How to get a welding job with no experience?

Entry-level welders can improve their chances by obtaining a welding certification, gaining hands-on practice through apprenticeships or training programs, and developing basic skills with common tools and safety procedures. Building a portfolio of work and applying to entry-level positions that offer on-the-job training can also help start a welding career without prior experience.

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.

Why do welders not live long?

Welders, including entry-level welders, may have shorter lifespans due to exposure to hazardous fumes, gases, and intense heat during welding processes. Proper safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring adequate ventilation, are essential to reduce health risks associated with the job.

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 a good entry-level welder?

A good entry-level welder typically has basic knowledge of welding techniques, safety procedures, and the ability to operate common tools like MIG or stick welders. Certification from a technical school or apprenticeship program can improve job prospects, and employers often seek candidates with a willingness to learn and attention to detail.
More about Entry Level Welder jobs
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Entry Level Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welder job openings in Rochester, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,065 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Maintenance Technician

Maintenance Technician

Hayfield Window and Door

Hayfield, MN • On-site

$19 - $32.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Hayfield Window & Door is a growing manufacturer of premium quality vinyl windows and consistently ranks as a Top 100 Window and Door Manufacturer in North America. We have an immediate opening for a Maintenance Tech in our manufacturing facility and are looking for hard working, dependable individuals who possess carpentry or mechanical skills to join our team.
Benefits of working for Hayfield Window and Door:
  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan
  • Accrued Paid time off - 104 accrued hours available for new hires!
  • Paid Holidays
  • On the site training
  • Opportunity to grow

The Maintenance Technician performs general maintenance and repairs for assigned equipment and facilities including plumbing, electrical, basic carpentry, heating and cooling, and other building systems.
Essential Functions: Inspects and identifies equipment or machines in need of repair and Troubleshoots issues to determine necessary repairs.
• Prepares work by studying assembly instructions, specifications, and parts lists.
• Gathering parts, sub-assemblies, tools, and materials to complete assigned tasks.
• Assembles components by examining connections for correct fit, fastening parts and subassemblies.
• Verifies specifications by measuring completed component.
• Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Engage in related support functions that impact machine's ability to run orders.
• Schedule and complete preventative maintenance of equipment, including inspecting, calibrating, safety checks, repair/replace broken or worn-out components.
• Troubleshoot equipment failures or breakdowns. Basic electronic knowledge and multimeter use.
• Perform maintenance on the facility, including plumbing, electrical and structural repairs/modification.
• Upgrade, modify or adjust all machines and/or existing guarding to increase safety.
• Follow all safety rules, including lockout/tagout, regulations, machine guidelines and guarding while starting, working on preventive maintenance, and cleaning machines.
• Wear required PPE to maintain safety and adhere to all safety procedures and processes.
• Can accurately read a tape measure.
• Ability to follow instructions from supervisors or senior maintenance workers.
• Knowledge of general carpentry and repair.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Other duties as assigned
Requirements
Physical Requirements:
• Must be physically capable of lifting 75 lbs.
• Ability to frequently sit, stand, walk, reach within hand, and arm length, stoop, kneel, and crouch.
• Full hand dexterity.
• Must be able to stand on your feet for extended periods of time.
Skills:
• Analytical, logical, and detailed thought process.
• Ability to read/troubleshoot form electrical schematics.
• Read and build from fabrications drawings.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of pneumatic systems, electronic cards, and basic welding skills.
• Intermediate computer competency with Microsoft Office programs.
• Effective time management.
• Teamwork - Ability to work well within and across functional departments.
• Good oral and written communication.
• Innovative thinking.
Entry Level Qualifications:
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Related experience preferred.
• On-the-job training offered.
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.
Hayfield Window and Door provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Salary Description
$19.00 - $32.62 per hour

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