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Entry Level Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flat Welder

Greenup, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Successfully performed as an entry level welder for one year minimum * Continually demonstrate good attendance practices, minimizing unplanned absences * Ensures adherence to company policies and ...

Flat Welder

Greenup, IL · On-site

$49K - $55K/hr

Successfully performed as an entry level welder for one year minimum * Continually demonstrate good attendance practices, minimizing unplanned absences * Ensures adherence to company policies and ...

Position Summary: Entry level Welder at our welding and fabrication shop. This position will weld in the welding and fabrication repair of heavy earthmoving equipment and attachments. The preferred ...

Welder (Entry-Level to Experienced) Location: Indianapolis, IN 46217 Job Type: Full-Time Job Summary A family-owned welding company in Indianapolis is seeking a full-time Welder to join their growing ...

Welder

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

This is not an entry-level welder position. 6G Welding Assessment and INCO Assessment testing will be required Responsibilities: • Design optimal work flow by working with manufacturing engineering ...

Welder

Pocahontas, IA · On-site

$21.50/hr

This is an entry level welder with little to no experience who requires constant supervision. This is an apprentice type welder. Ideal candidates will have experience in a manufacturing environment ...

MIG Welding Start Your Welding Career with a Growing Manufacturing Team We're hiring an Entry-Level Welder to join our fast-paced manufacturing team! If you have MIG welding experience , enjoy hands ...

Welder

Sioux Falls, SD

$18.50 - $22.75/hr

This entry-level welding role focuses primarily on MIG welding carbon steel components while supporting general production and part preparation activities. The position plays an important part in ...

Welder

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

This entry-level welding role focuses primarily on MIG welding carbon steel components while supporting general production and part preparation activities. The position plays an important part in ...

Welder

Lackawanna, NY · On-site

$35K - $37K/yr

Rapistak is currently seeking entry level welders (less than one year experience) in our Lackawanna, NY warehouse location. Steady hand and great attention to detail, ability to work 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 ...

Welder

Lackawanna, NY · On-site

$35K - $37K/yr

Rapistak is currently seeking entry level welders (less than one year experience) in our Lackawanna, NY warehouse location. Steady hand and great attention to detail, ability to work 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 ...

Welder I

Temple, TX · On-site

$18/hr

Pass Artcobell weld test * Entry level welding skill set * Safely weld one or two simple types of components/product * Meet production rate following standard work * Communicate effectively Physical ...

Pass Artcobell weld test * Entry level welding skill set * Safely weld one or two simple types of components/product * Meet production rate following standard work * Communicate effectively Physical ...

Field Welder I

Pinehurst, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Minimum Qualifications: * 0-1 year of welding or relevant construction experience preferred. * Entry-level welding certification or ability to pass company weld test. * OSHA 10-Hour Construction ...

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Entry Level Welder information

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How much do entry level welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welder in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.76 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.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Welder jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Welder job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs? The most popular types of Welder jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welder jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welder job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Welder - Entry Level

Welder - Entry Level

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 521 rated manufacturers


Job description

Are you interested in welding but don't have training or experience? This is a great opportunity.

Apply today to this entry level welding position, we will provide paid training and become part of the welding team at Electric Boat that takes pride in building the world's most advanced submarines!

No welding experience or training required. Paid training provided!

Benefits include:

  • Paid training
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • 401K plan with up to 6% employer match
  • Paid vacations and holidays
  • Growth opportunities
  • Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter Van Service/RIPTA
  • Tuition Reimbursement Programs
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program

Duties include but are not limited to the following:

  • Welding on a wide variety of materials, using an ever-growing number of weld processes
  • Welding structural assemblies using GMAW and SMAW during fabrication and installation of submarine construction
  • Participation in continuous training in traditional, and new welding processes, using both conventional and state-of-the art equipment (Qualification required for each process)
  • Use of pneumatic tools such as grinders, burr tools, wire brushes, etc.
  • Oxy/fuel pre-heat and carbon/arc gouging as well as verifying weld size using weld gauges
  • Reading and interpretation of weld symbols, technique sheets, and work packages
  • Additional tasks as assigned

This position in located at the Quonset Point Facility in North Kingstown, RI. 


Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of 2 years related technical experience
  • Available to work all shifts
  • Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in extreme temperature conditions as required
  • Must be able to pass destructive bend weld test after training
  • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

Preferred:

  • Vocational, Technical, Community College or Apprentice programs
  • Experience and/or training in the construction industry or a manufacturing environment
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Military/Navy experience 
  • Ability to interpret welding and shipyard procedures, structural drawings, technical manuals, test documents and diagrams 

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment and meet organizational goals

Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily

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