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Entry Level Welding Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Transit Fleet Technician I

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$63K - $100K/yr

This is an entry level skilled mechanical repair work on transit diesel-powered buses and a variety ... Performs minor welding and some major welding tasks. Operates various types of shop equipment ...

This is an entry level skilled mechanical repair work on transit diesel-powered buses and a variety ... Performs minor welding and some major welding tasks. Operates various types of shop equipment ...

Must be detail oriented and able to coach and train the entry level techs. Must have your own tools ... welders, brake lathes, etc. * Perform other duties as assigned and required. Profile Summary:

Automotive Technician

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Must be detail oriented and able to coach and train the entry level techs. Must have your own tools ... welders, brake lathes, etc. * Perform other duties as assigned and required. Profile Summary:

Entry Level Welding information

See Reston, VA salary details

$15

$30

$47

How much do entry level welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding in Reston, VA is $30.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $35.53 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, and why are they important?

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 entry level welding jobs?

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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Welding jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welding jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welding jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Welding jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Welding job openings:

Transit Fleet Technician I

City of Fairfax, VA

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$63K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Salary: $63,008.00 - $100,633.00 Annually
Location : 3410 Pickett Road, Fairfax, VA 22030, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 26-71
Department: Public Works
Division: Fleet Maintenance & Equipment
Opening Date: 07/01/2026
Closing Date: 7/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Description
Why Join the City of Fairfax?
-Competitive salary and benefits package
-Work with a dedicated team maintaining critical public transportation assets
-Ongoing training and certification support
-A workplace that values teamwork, safety, and innovation
Benefits:
-$2,000 bonus (Class A CDL) or $1,000 (CDL permit).
-Annual Tool allowance.
-Excellent health, dual - retirement, and leave benefits.
This is an entry level skilled mechanical repair work on transit diesel-powered buses and a variety of heavy and light duty fleet assets.
Work involves responsibility for the maintenance, mechanical repair, fabrication, new setup, and surplus decommission of transit buses and a variety of heavy/med/light duty fleet assets including, special operations vehicles and equipment, bucket trucks, refuse collection trucks, leaf trucks, snow equipment, trailers, construction equipment, hybrid vehicles, other gasoline and diesel-powered fleet assets. Assignments are received from the Fleet Services Operations Manager, in the form of electronic repair orders, employees work under general supervision using independent judgment in diagnosis and repair. Work is subject to inspection while in progress and upon completion. After hours On-Call Rotation is required.
Examples Of Duties
Preforms preventive maintenance, diagnoses issues, and repairs a variety of transit buses and medium / heavy duty fleet vehicles and equipment.
Performs automotive repairs in an open bay, in a dusty, dirty environment where exhaust fumes are often present and where temperatures may become very hot or very cold depending on the weather.
Assists in determining equipment specifications for new vehicles and equipment.
Repairs and overhauls a variety of items such as transmissions, clutch assemblies, power take-offs, differentials, and front and rear end assemblies; repairs hydraulic pumps, lines, and connections, replaces hydraulic cylinders, etc.
Uses various computers and scan tools to diagnose equipment as well as DVOM's and DSO with special leads and amp clamps.
Repairs and replaces brakes (weighing up to 160 lbs.), generators, universal joints, lighting systems, sirens, cooling, ignition, electrical, fuel systems, mufflers, wheel bearings, exhaust pipes, replace springs and axles, DPF system, major engine components, tires, computer modules, multiplex system, hybrid system, A/C and heat system, driveline and axles, turbos, fuel injection, wheelchair ramps, announcement systems, mobile communications systems, destination signs, fareboxes, engine/transmission cooling system, charging system, standard suspension, with air ride. backup camera and drive camera systems, GPS traffic preemption system, snowplows and spreaders, chemical spreaders, salt brine applicators, leaf impeller and bearings, leaf collection components, CCTV inspection equipment, sewer line flush trucks, etc.
Operates saws, drill presses, hydraulic presses, valve grinding machines, and other related automotive machinery.
Performs seasonal inspection and repairs to leaf and snow collection equipment.
Performs seasonal A/C services and repairs.
Performs repairs on fuel site equipment.
Performs repairs on shop equipment and tools.
Maintains OSHA compliance in assigned bay.
Fabrication of shop tools and parts.
Performs minor welding and some major welding tasks.
Operates various types of shop equipment, machinery, precision instruments, specialized tools, micrometers, dial gauges, pressure gauges, power saws, drills, grinders, tire changing, plasma cutter, torches, welder, press, pullers, vacuum machine, etc.
Diagnose and repair computer aided systems such as fuel injection, anti-skid brakes, emission and engine sensors, lighting, etc.
Attends safety training.
Verifies newly purchased transit and heavy-duty vehicles to ensure they meet city specifications, installs decals and other equipment.
Conducts official state safety inspections of all licensed city vehicles.
Makes emergency road repairs and service calls as necessary.
Required to be a rotation for on call to respond to vehicle or city emergencies.
Will be required to work overtime with little or no notice as needed.
Will be required to work holidays as needed.
Supports 24/7 emergency operations such as snow response by participating in rotating shifts.
Keeps bay, toolbox, and workstation neat and clean, removing trash daily.
The duties listed above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Qualifications
Graduation from high school (or GED) supplemented by courses in automotive mechanics and manufacturer-specific courses in the maintenance of a variety of vehicles, plus three years of experience in all phases of vehicular maintenance, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Must meet Skill Base Pay requirements for Fleet Technician I.
  1. Must furnish complete set of own hand tools.
  2. Must be able to work 60% of the time unassisted.
  3. Must possess a valid class A commercial driver's license with N, P, and air brakes endorsements, (or ability to obtain within twelve months of employment). Must have a satisfactory driving record that meets the City of Fairfax's policy standards.

Must possess the following certifications or the ability to obtain within 18 months of employment:
  1. Virginia State Safety Inspector license.
  2. ASE xEV Level 1 certification.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Considerable knowledge of the methods, materials, tools, and techniques used in the repair and maintenance of automotive, and maintenance vehicles and equipment and specialized equipment including gasoline and diesel engines, hydraulic systems, and air systems.
Considerable knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the trade.
Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot defects in transit buses, med-heavy duty fleet and equipment and makes appropriate repairs.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions, including administrative regulations, and standard operating procedures.
Ability to interpret and work from service manuals, specifications, and diagrams using hardback copies and using computer resources.
Ability to maintain necessary repair records, work effectively on computer "faster" database for work orders and other various applications.
Skill in the use and operation of tools and machinery used in fleet repair work.
Ability to test drive vehicles and equipment.
Ability to work cooperatively with others.
Ability to communicate effectively.
Ability to adapt to new technologies.
Ability to use cloud base programs to create work orders, email, follow repair diagnostics, and training.
Ability to be a proactive self-starter.
Supplemental Information
Selected candidates with an active CDL will receive a $2,000 bonus upon hire. (Paid per pay period, 26 pay periods per year).
Selected candidates with an active CDL learner's permit will receive a $1,000 bonus upon hire. (Paid per pay period, 26 pay periods per year).
Work Hours: Monday through Friday from 6:30am to 3:00pm with occasional overtime and rotating on call for after-hours needs. Seasonal hours will vary.