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Entry Level Welding Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Installer I - Entry Level Responsibilities: * Ability to work with hands for long periods of time ... weld and train ee's. Installer III - Advanced Level Responsibilities: * Must meet all level 1 ...

Mechanical Engineer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

BSME, BSMET or equivalent degree with experience. * Entry level candidates and experienced ... Experience with manufacturing processes, assembly operations, machining, welding, or fabrication.

Entry Level Welding information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do entry level welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding in Decatur, IL is $28.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Decatur, IL?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Welding jobs in Decatur, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welding jobs in Decatur, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welding jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Entry Level Welding jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Entry Level Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $60,100 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Installer I

SHUR-CO

Decatur, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
This role is essential in manufacturing and distribution settings, ensuring products are assembled correctly and prepared for delivery to customers.


Installer I – Entry Level
Responsibilities:

  • Ability to work with hands for long periods of time
  • Displays proficiency in manual nonpowered hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments such as measuring tape.
  • Be able to determine condition of tools
  • Must be able to properly stock material, parts, and sub-assemblies in their proper location protected from harm
  • Shows ability to accurately count items, understand unit of measures
  • Can read and understand work orders, sales orders, and drawings.
  • Must have hand tool competency, safely operate and become certified in both forklift and scissor lifts
  • Work in a fast-paced environment with fast changing priorities and report productivity to the Service Center Manager.
  • Proficiency in understanding drawings, blueprints, subassembly designs, work order and sales order docs, customer provided pictures, and overall dimensions.
  • Assemble items as instructed by Service Center Manager.
  • Lift raw materials, final products, and items packed for shipment, manually, or using hoist.
  • Operate machinery used in the production process or assist machine operators.
  • Ability to complete 2 of the following installations: side to side roll tarp systems, trap systems, front to back cable systems, Arm systems, SWAT, ShurTite

Installer II – Skilled Level
Responsibilities:

  • Must meet all level 1 requirements
  • Must have hand tool competency, safely operate and become certified in both forklift and scissor lifts, ability to complete 4 of the following installations: side to side roll tarp systems, trap systems, front to back cable systems, Arm systems, SWAT, ShurTite           and are able to weld and train ee's.

Installer III – Advanced Level
Responsibilities:

  • Must meet all level 1 requirements
  • Must meet all level 2 requirements
  • Must have hand tool competency, safely operate and become certified in both forklift and scissor lifts, ability to complete 6 of the following installations: side to side roll tarp systems, trap systems, front to back cable systems, Arm systems, SWAT, ShurTite           and are able to weld and train ee's.
  • Comfortable giving direction and or leading Peers.
  • Shows interest in learning additional skills.
  • Shows good decision-making skills without supervision.
  • Great people skills

Installer – Lead Position
Responsibilities:

  • Must meet all level 1 requirements
  • Must meet all level 2 requirements
  • Must meet all level 3 requirements
  • Exhibits strong potential for advancement into a leadership role within the company. Possesses at least 4 of the below skills and has the ability to be trained/coached in further leadership skills. Skill set includes:
    • Clear and Direct Communication: They consistently communicate instructions and information effectively, ensuring team clarity.
    • Active Listening: They demonstrate openness to feedback and make efforts to incorporate suggestions, fostering continuous improvement.
    • Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: They think quickly and critically to resolve unexpected issues and make sound decisions under pressure.
    • Technical Expertise: They possess a solid understanding of the manufacturing processes within their department, enabling them to provide informed guidance.
    • Team Trust and Influence: They have built trust among their peers, which is essential for motivating and leading teams. 
    • Proactive Time Management: They manage their tasks efficiently and take initiative by seeking additional work when their responsibilities are complete.
    • Safety Awareness: They consistently prioritize and promote a safe working environment.
    • Quality Focus: They ensure that standards are consistently met, maintaining high product and process quality.
    • Ability and willingness to cross train department employees and new employees.

QUALIFICATIONS 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attendance and dependability by consistently reporting to work on time and completing assigned tasks accurately. They must be able to maintain a clean and organized work environment, follow all company policies and procedures, and apply a high level of attention to detail and focus. The ability to work collaboratively with team members to support productivity and operational efficiency is also essential.

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 and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. 

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

REASONING ABILITY

  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES

Must be able to pass forklift certification test and drive a forklift.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
  • The employee frequently is required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. 
  • The employee is occasionally required to sit. 
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 30 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds. 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; high, precarious places; and vibration. 

SAFETY

Follow all safety directives and protocols at all times and help identify potential hazards or violations that should be addressed to ensure personnel and facility safety are maintained. 

QUALITY

Along with every other member of our team, always be cognizant of overall performance in every aspect of our business and help maintain a constant focus on quality assurance and continuous quality improvement. 

Other Duties as Assigned:

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may be required to perform other related duties to meet the ongoing needs of the organization. Shur-Co LLC is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply.