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Entry Level Welding Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Maine Oxy

Cylinder Sorter

Auburn, ME · On-site

$22/hr

This is an entry-level position with on-the-job training provided; no prior experience with ... Familiarity with compressed gas, welding supply, or DOT-regulated products. Physical Requirements ...

Maine Oxy

Filler

Auburn, ME

$22/hr

Filler -- Entry-Level Production Role (We Train You) $22/hour + $1/hour shift differential ... What we make matters: welding, manufacturing, healthcare, food and beverage, and more * Safety isn ...

All JobsWelding JobsEntry Level Welding JobsEntry Level Welding Jobs in Portland, ME

Entry Level Welding information

See Portland, ME salary details

$15

$30

$46

How much do entry level welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding in Portland, ME is $30.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $34.95 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 Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Welding jobs in Portland, ME?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welding jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welding jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Entry Level Welding jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Entry Level Welding job openings:

Entry Level Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,291 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Entry-Level Stainless Steel Fabrication Shop Assistant

Rock Coast Personnel

Portland, ME • On-site

$19.75 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago

Job description

A Ground-Floor Opportunity with Real Career Potential
Rock Coast Personnel is recruiting an Entry-Level Shop Assistant/Utility Worker for our client, an established custom stainless steel fabrication company in Portland, Maine.
This is much more than an entry-level shop job. It is an opportunity to get your foot in the door and begin building a lasting, well-paying career in the skilled trades.
You will start by helping keep the shop clean, organized, safe, and running efficiently. As you demonstrate dependability and learn the operation, experienced welders and fabricators will provide hands-on training in stainless steel preparation, grinding, fitting, polishing, equipment operation, blueprint reading, and basic TIG/MIG welding.
No welding or metal fabrication experience is required. Our client is willing to train someone who brings a strong work ethic, reliable attendance, mechanical interest, and a genuine desire to learn.
Many employees have started in similar entry-level positions and, through training, hard work, and increased responsibility, developed their roles into successful skilled-trade careers.
How the Temp-to-Hire Opportunity Works
This position begins as a full-time assignment through Rock Coast Personnel, and the selected candidate will initially be an employee of Rock Coast Personnel.
The goal is to transition the position into direct, permanent employment with our client. If the arrangement proves to be a good fit for both the employee and the client, the employee may be offered the opportunity to join the client's team as a full-time, permanent employee.
What You'll Do
  • Shop Organization and Safety
  • Keep the shop floor clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.
  • Organize welding equipment, hand tools, consumable supplies, and raw materials.
  • Restock workstations with safety equipment and everyday supplies.
  • Help maintain a safe, professional, and efficient working environment.
Shipping, Receiving, and Material Handling
  • Unload deliveries of stainless steel sheet, tubing, pipe, hardware, and other materials.
  • Compare incoming materials with packing slips to verify quantities and accuracy.
  • Inspect incoming materials for visible damage.
  • Safely package finished custom metal components for shipment or customer pickup.
  • Learn to operate material-handling equipment, including forklifts and overhead hoists.
Fabrication Support and Training
  • Assist experienced welders and fabricators with holding, clamping, positioning, and moving parts.
  • Clean, prepare, grind, and deburr stainless steel components before fabrication and welding.
  • Learn to safely use equipment such as angle grinders, drill presses, pipe-bending equipment, and CNC machinery.
  • Rock Coast Personnel | Portland, Maine Page 2
  • Shadow experienced team members while learning TIG/MIG welding, metal finishing, fitting, and blueprint reading.
  • Take on increasingly skilled responsibilities as your knowledge and abilities develop.
What We're Looking For
Previous shop, welding, or metalworking experience is not required. We are looking for someone with the right attitude and work habits.
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality.
  • A strong work ethic and willingness to perform hands-on physical work.
  • A genuine interest in learning fabrication and welding skills.
  • A commitment to following shop safety procedures.
  • The ability to follow basic written and verbal instructions.
  • The ability to read a standard tape measure or the willingness to learn.
  • The ability to stand and walk for most of an eight-hour shift.
  • The ability to routinely lift and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • A high school diploma or GED is preferred but not strictly required.
What This Opportunity Offers
  • 100% paid, on-the-job training
  • Hands-on instruction in metalworking, grinding, polishing, fitting, and welding.
  • A potential path toward an Apprentice or Welder/Fabricator position.
  • Opportunities for increased responsibility and earning potential.
  • Training to operate forklifts and overhead hoists.
  • Paid time off during the Rock Coast Personnel assignment.
  • A boot allowance during the Rock Coast Personnel assignment.
  • Initial personal protective equipment during the Rock Coast Personnel assignment, including gloves, hearing protection, and safety glasses.
  • A stable, safety-focused workplace with experienced team members who are willing to teach.
  • The potential to transition into permanent employment with the client.
During the temporary assignment, eligible Rock Coast Personnel employees receive paid time off, a boot allowance, and initial safety equipment. Following a successful transition to permanent employment, eligible employees may have access to the client's health coverage and retirement plan. Eligibility and benefit terms are determined by the applicable employer's policies.
Schedule: Monday-Thursday, 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. | Friday, 6:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | Overtime as required
Ready to Build Something More?
If you are dependable, mechanically inclined, comfortable working with your hands, and ready to learn a valuable trade, we want to hear from you.
Apply today through Rock Coast Personnel and tell us why you are interested in beginning a career in stainless steel fabrication.