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Entry Level Welding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Quality Engineer

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$37 - $39/hr

Experience with welding processes and fabrication tooling * Familiarity with Lean, 5S, and CI tools * Experience in a union environment Role Scope * Entry-level quality engineering role * Supports ...

Packer (Entry Level)

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

... TIG Welder Sedona Staffing Services Administrative Accounting Assistant (Part-Time) Eagle Tool Company MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN I Engineering Services and Products Company ER Medical Surgical RN ...

View our Job Preview Video Here's a bit more about what your job will be as an entry-level Fleet ... Experience using shop tools (engine hoists, welding, changing tires, small tools) * Experience with ...

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA ยท On-site

$121K - $145K/yr

... Job Summary Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support ... Weld processes & documentation โ€ข SAP โ€ข Excel & PowerPoint Technical Exposure Areas โ€ข CAD / ...

View our Job Preview Video Here's a bit more about what your job will be as an entry-level Fleet ... Experience using shop tools (engine hoists, welding, changing tires, small tools) * Experience with ...

Responsible for assisting more experienced welders with the entire sequence of cutting and welding ... We are looking for an Entry-Level Repair Technician to provide support to by performing basic ...

Installer - Structured Cabling

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $25.50/hr

... entry-level work with or without hand tools at the direction of his or her supervising journeyman. Pre-apprentices are traditionally not permitted to operate heavy equipment, welders, or work on ...

Installer - Structured Cabling

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$20.50 - $25.50/hr

... entry-level work with or without hand tools at the direction of his or her supervising journeyman. Pre-apprentices are traditionally not permitted to operate heavy equipment, welders, or work on ...

Installer - Structured Cabling

Ankeny, IA ยท On-site

$19.75 - $24.75/hr

... entry-level work with or without hand tools at the direction of his or her supervising journeyman. Pre-apprentices are traditionally not permitted to operate heavy equipment, welders, or work on ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Welding information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do entry level welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding in Iowa is $27.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $32.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is entry level welding?

Entry level welding jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the welding trade, typically requiring little to no prior professional experience. These roles often involve assisting experienced welders, performing basic welding tasks, and learning safety procedures on the job. Entry level welders may work in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or automotive repair, and are usually expected to have completed a welding training program or certification. The main goal of these positions is to gain practical experience and develop foundational welding skills. Over time, entry level welders can advance to more specialized or supervisory roles as they gain expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level welder?

To thrive as an Entry Level Welder, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, basic metallurgy, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and vocational training or certification. Familiarity with welding tools, such as MIG, TIG, or arc welders, and the ability to read blueprints are commonly required in this role. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a strong work ethic are critical soft skills that set candidates apart. These skills ensure the production of high-quality welds, safe work practices, and reliable job performance in industrial and construction settings.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level welders in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level welders often face challenges such as mastering different welding techniques, adapting to safety protocols, and building physical stamina for long hours of hands-on work. It can also be challenging to interpret technical drawings or work in varying environments, from workshops to outdoor sites. To overcome these hurdles, new welders should seek guidance from experienced colleagues, take advantage of on-the-job training, and prioritize practicing their skills regularly. Staying proactive about safety and asking questions when unsure can help build confidence and competence in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Welding vs Apprentice Welder?

AspectEntry Level WeldingApprentice Welder
CertificationsBasic welding certifications often preferredTypically required to begin apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, workshopsOn-the-job training in similar environments
Employer UsageEntry-level positions for beginnersTraining role within a company or union
Search IntentStarting welding career, entry-level jobsLearning welding skills, apprenticeship programs

Entry Level Welding and Apprentice Welder roles both serve as starting points in the welding industry. While entry level welders perform basic welding tasks with some certification, apprentice welders are in training, gaining skills under supervision. The main difference lies in experience and training stage, with apprentices focusing on learning before becoming fully qualified welders.

How do I get an entry level welding job with no experience?

Entry level welding jobs typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of a welding training program or certification, such as the AWS Certified Welder. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships, internships, or volunteering can improve your chances, and developing skills in safety, reading blueprints, and using welding tools is essential.

What is a good entry-level welder?

A good entry-level welder typically has basic knowledge of welding techniques, safety procedures, and the use of common tools like MIG or stick welders. Certification such as the AWS Certified Welder can improve job prospects, and hands-on experience or apprenticeships are valuable for gaining skills in a manufacturing or construction environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Welding jobs in Iowa?

For Entry Level Welding jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welding jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welding jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Welding jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,198 per year, or $28 per hour.

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking a growth-oriented candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer
This job involves responding to process and part quality issues to ensure robust and effective fabrication and assembly operations, and delivery of high-quality parts to the vehicle assembly line. Strong communication skills and ability to work and prioritize in a fast-paced environment are critical for success in this position.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct quality investigations, containment actions and recommended actions to prevent line down situations
  • Work with product line to identify, prioritize, and document reliability trends to resolve quality issues
  • Provide improvements to product reliability and customer satisfaction through support of new product introduction programs.
  • Provide quality representation to applicable meetings and reviews
  • Participate in quality planning
  • Create/monitor quality documentation and drive resolution to factory quality issues
  • Track quality metrics and provide feedback to design teams on gap analysis
  • Identify improvements or deterioration in product quality levels
  • Identify internal manufacturing process improvements
  • Complete process verification audits and document results and corrective actions
  • Work with assemblers on operator training certification
  • Lead/participate in SCRUM/AGILE projects to improve line quality
  • Drive product RGA's and develop recommendations for field action
  • Monitor/manage dashboard reports

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering or related field required OR equivalent industry experience
  • 100% On-site support
  • Basic understanding of construction / off-road equipment
  • Basic Microsoft Office skills
  • Must be a self-starter, have good communication skills, and be able to work as part of a team
  • Must have a valid Drivers License

Desired Attributes
  • Ability to convey topics at both a technical and high level effectively
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing or assembly environment
  • Welding, fabrication, sheet metal, hydraulic, electrical or paint experience is a plus

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.