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Entry Level Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carolina Heavy Steel

Welder/ Fitter I

Hollywood, SC · On-site

$21.25 - $26.75/hr

Ability to pass entry-level welding test. * Basic understanding of measuring tools. Hours * Monday - Thursday 6:00am - 4:30pm * Overtime may be required. Requirements: * Read and interpret shop ...

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Entry Level Welder

Paton, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary This is an entry-level opportunity for individuals that desire to develop welding skills within a production environment. Success in the role requires a strong focus on maintaining ...

Pitco Frialator LLC

Welder

Bow, NH · On-site

$30/hr

Welding Operations * Pass the entry level welding test, as assigned and evaluated by the Production Manager or designee. * Demonstrate an ability to adjust equipment settings to accurately and ...

Pitco Frialator LLC

Welder

Bow, NH · On-site

$30/hr

Welding Operations * Pass the entry level welding test, as assigned and evaluated by the Production Manager or designee. * Demonstrate an ability to adjust equipment settings to accurately and ...

Pro Mechanical Services

Entry Level Welder

Catoosa, OK · On-site

$25/hr

We are seeking Entry Level Welders! This is a full- time position with a local facility focusing on ... Candidates must have 2+ years of welding experience. Please apply and provide a resume if ...

SPC Mechanical Corporation

WELDER I

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

... entry-level welding tasks using Stick and TIG techniques to fabricate, assemble, and repair metal components. This role requires the ability to interpret engineering drawings, operate welding ...

Pitco Frialator LLC

Welder

Bow, NH · On-site

$30/hr

Welding Operations * Pass the entry level welding test, as assigned and evaluated by the Production Manager or designee. * Demonstrate an ability to adjust equipment settings to accurately and ...

Conrad Shipyard

Structural Welder

Morgan City, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

Pass entry level welding test or ABS certification test, depending on classification and welding process. * Proficient in one or many of the following welding processes; SMAW, FCAW, * FCAW-G, GMAW ...

PCI Manufacturing LLC

Welder I

Atmore, AL

$15 - $21/hr

... I is an entry level welding position working under the daily direction of other senior welders. A position responsible for setting up and operating welding equipment/jigs/tools to join metal ...

Northeast Precast

Set Crew Welder

Vineland, NJ

$19 - $23/hr

... or entry-level welding ability with the mindset to be trained on specific job functions * Experience using a variety of welding equipment and procedures (TIG, MMA etc.) * Experience in using ...

Bleema Manufacturing Corporation

Welder

Irvington, NJ · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Seeking entry level welder to learn and grow. Reports to: Welding supervisor & Manager Responsibilities: cleaning, cutting, brushing, grinding, tacking, fitting, welding, using MIG & Stick Minimum ...

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Entry Level Welding information

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$45

How much do entry level welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level welding in the United States is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $34.13 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.
More about Entry Level Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Welding jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Welding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs? The most popular types of Welding jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Welding jobs are:
Entry Level Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Welding job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Welder/ Fitter I

Carolina Heavy Steel

Hollywood, SC • On-site

$21.25 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description:

Position Summary

The Structural Welder/Fitter I is an entry-level to intermediate skilled trades position responsible for fitting, aligning, and welding structural steel components according to blueprints, drawings, and specifications. The employee works under the supervision of a lead fitter, foreman, or shop supervisor and assists in the fabrication of structural steel assemblies.


Essential Duties

  • Perform basic fitting, assembly, and welding tasks.
  • Read simple drawings and weld symbols.
  • Use measuring tools and welding equipment.
  • Assist in fabrication of structural assemblies.
  • Follow safety and quality requirements.

Experience

  • 0–2 years of welding and/or fitting experience.

Qualifications

  • Basic blueprint reading skills.
  • Ability to use measuring instruments.
  • Basic math skills.
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Basic welding training or vocational education.
  • Ability to pass entry-level welding test.
  • Basic understanding of measuring tools.

Hours

  • Monday – Thursday 6:00am – 4:30pm
  • Overtime may be required.
Requirements:
  • Read and interpret shop drawings, blueprints, and fabrication details.
  • Measure, mark, and lay out materials using tapes, squares, levels, and other measuring tools.
  • Fit structural steel components including beams, columns, braces, plates, and miscellaneous steel.
  • Perform tack welding and final welding using FCAW, SMAW, and/or GMAW processes.
  • Operate fabrication equipment such as grinders, drills, magnetic drills, oxy-fuel torches, and plasma cutters.
  • Verify dimensions and tolerances before and after welding.
  • Maintain weld quality standards and follow welding procedures.
  • Perform material handling using overhead cranes and forklifts (if trained and authorized).
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
  • Assist with inspections and quality control activities as required.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Minimum 1–2 years of structural steel fabrication, fitting, or welding experience preferred.
  • Ability to read a tape measure accurately to 1/16 inch.
  • Basic blueprint reading skills.
  • Knowledge of structural steel fabrication and welding practices.
  • Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.
  • Ability to pass a weld test if required.
  • Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
  • AWS certification or ability to obtain certification.
  • Experience with FCAW (Flux Core) welding.
  • Experience operating overhead cranes.
  • Forklift certification.
  • Experience in heavy steel fabrication environments.
  • Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb throughout the workday.
  • Work in varying temperatures and industrial environments.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands and arms.
  • Ability to wear required PPE including welding hood, respirator, gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work from drawings and verbal instructions.
  • Basic math and measuring skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.
  • FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)
  • SMAW (Stick Welding)
  • GMAW (MIG Welding)