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Tig Welder Apprentice Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Welding & Fabrication: Perform welding (MIG, TIG, Stick) for repairs and fabrication of parts ... Completion of a Millwright apprenticeship or equivalent experience. * Own personal tools to ...

Welding & Fabrication: Perform welding (MIG, TIG, Stick) for repairs and fabrication of parts ... Completion of a Millwright apprenticeship or equivalent experience. * Own personal tools to ...

Tig Welder Apprentice information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$9

$18

$25

How much do tig welder apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tig welder apprentice in Decatur, AL is $18.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Tig Welder Apprentice vs Tig Welder?

AspectTig Welder ApprenticeTig Welder
CertificationsBasic welding certifications, apprenticeship programsAdvanced certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, supervised settingsManufacturing, construction, fabrication shops
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning phaseSkilled, experienced professional

The main difference between a Tig Welder Apprentice and a Tig Welder is experience and skill level. Apprentices are in training, gaining hands-on experience, while Tig Welders are fully qualified professionals capable of handling complex projects independently.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Tig welders with advanced skills and certifications can earn around $50 an hour, especially in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or heavy manufacturing. Experience, location, and the complexity of projects influence pay rates for welding jobs at this level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tig Welder Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tig Welder Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of welding principles, manual dexterity, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with TIG welding equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes introductory welding certifications are commonly required. Strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, and effective communication skills help apprentices adapt and excel in hands-on, team-oriented environments. These abilities are crucial for producing precise welds, adhering to safety standards, and progressing toward skilled welder status.

Is 30 too old for an apprenticeship?

Tig Welder Apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 30 is not considered too old to start. Many apprenticeships value skills, commitment, and willingness to learn over age, and older apprentices often bring valuable experience to the trade. Age should not be a barrier to entering a welding apprenticeship program.

Is 25 too late to become a welder?

Tig welder apprenticeships and training programs often accept individuals of various ages, including those in their mid-20s. Age is generally not a barrier to starting a welding career, and gaining skills such as precision and knowledge of welding equipment can lead to employment opportunities regardless of age.

What are some common challenges faced by TIG Welder Apprentices during their training period?

TIG Welder Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise hand-eye coordination and maintaining consistent weld quality, as TIG welding requires steady hands and close attention to detail. Adapting to different metals and thicknesses, as well as learning to control heat and prevent warping, can also be difficult at first. Additionally, apprentices may find it challenging to work in various positions or confined spaces while maintaining safety protocols. However, with practice and guidance from experienced welders, these challenges become manageable and contribute significantly to skill development.

What are Tig Welder Apprentices?

Tig Welder Apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills required to become professional TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welders. They work under the supervision of experienced welders to gain hands-on experience with TIG welding equipment, materials, and safety procedures. Apprenticeships typically involve both classroom instruction and on-the-job training, allowing apprentices to develop technical expertise and earn industry-recognized certifications. TIG Welder Apprenticeships are a common pathway to a career in welding, offering valuable experience and increasing job prospects in the manufacturing, construction, and fabrication industries.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Tig welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually with extensive experience, specialized skills, working in high-paying industries like oil and gas or aerospace, and often through overtime or supervisory roles. However, such high earnings are uncommon and typically require advanced certifications, a strong reputation, and working in demanding environments. Most entry- and mid-level welders earn significantly less than this amount.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tig Welder jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Tig Welder jobs in Decatur, AL are:
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What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Tig Welder Apprentice jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Tig Welder Apprentice job openings:
Welder II, Mid-Level

$19 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview

SimTech, Inc., recognized as one of the 2026 Best Places for Working Parents, in Huntsville, AL, is seeking an experienced and highly organized Welder II, Mid-Level team member that performs complex, high-precision welding operations in accordance with MIL-STD-3040A, AWS D1.1, AWS D1.2, and applicable DoD contract requirements.

SimTech offers a market leading compensation package with excellent benefits, work/life balance, outstanding retirement plan, career advancement and much more.

We are seeking a skilled Welder II, Mid-Level that performs complex, high-precision welding operations in accordance with MIL-STD-3040A, AWS D1.1, AWS D1.2, and applicable DoD contract requirements. This position involves performing GTAW and GMAW welding processes, strict adherence to process control documentation, and full compliance with qualified weld procedures and personnel certifications. The ideal candidate possesses 5-9 years of experience performing GTAW (TIG) and GMAW (MIG) welding on materials such as aluminum, carbon steel, and armored steel, in a high-precision manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Execute precision welding operations in accordance with MIL-STD-3040A, AWS D1.1, and AWS D1.2 requirements, ensuring full traceability and conformance to qualified WPS, PQR, and WPQ documentation.

Interpret engineering drawings, weld symbols, process travelers, and work instructions in compliance with AS9100 and contract-specific requirements.

Perform setup, alignment, and fixturing operations to maintain weld geometry, dimensional integrity, and distortion control per applicable specifications.

Collaborate with Senior Welders, Welding Engineering, Quality Assurance, and NDT personnel to verify weld quality, conduct visual inspections, and support nondestructive evaluations.

Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow all company and OSHA safety procedures to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.

Applies advanced knowledge of mathematics and precision measurement tools to determine dimensions and tolerances, ensuring accurate layout and alignment of piece parts prior to welding operations.

Record and maintain weld process data in accordance with internal quality management systems for process verification and traceability.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Education Requirements

High school diploma or GED; completion of an accredited welding apprenticeship or technical training program preferred.

Minimum 5-9 years of hands-on welding experience in aerospace, defense, or manufacturing.

Currently or previously held certification to AWS and DoD standards.

Proficient in GTAW (TIG) and GMAW (MIG); experience with FCAW is a plus.

Ability to interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and complex weld symbols.

Working knowledge of AS9100 and ITAR/EAR compliance in a controlled manufacturing environment.

Strong attention to detail, organization, and accuracy.

Ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.

Works efficiently with the team to meet production schedules and delivery deadlines.

U.S. Citizenship required.

Physical Description

Employees in these positions will work in an assembly, manufacturing, and production environment, as well as in equipment assembly areas using technical and electronic testing equipment, including specialized software. They will collaborate with various personnel in a manufacturing or testing setting, attend meetings, contribute to team efforts, deliver timely results, produce reports, and communicate information effectively. Telework may be included.

In specialized laboratory or testing environments, employees will use electronic testing equipment, complex systems, and computer software. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, hearing protection, protective footwear, and lab coats may be required. Employees may be responsible for lifting, moving, testing, and assembling equipment of various weights and utilizing a variety of electronic testing tools.

About SimTech, Inc.

SimTech's mission is to be the most reliable and cost-effective provider of Signature Models, Simulations, Hardware, Software, Cyber solutions, and Test & Evaluation services. Established in 1983 by a team of experienced scientists and engineers, SimTech has a long history of delivering high-technology defense-oriented solutions.

The company has been recognized as a "Best Place to Work" in 2020 and 2021, and as a "Best Place for Working Parents" in 2022-2026 by the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. SimTech offers an industry-leading comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Be a part of over 43+ years of excellence-join our team today!

To learn more about our exceptional team and employee benefits, contact SimTech HR or visit www.simtechinc.com for more information.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer

SimTech, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. SimTech, Inc. is a committed EOE/Vet/Disabled employer.

Simulation Technologies, Inc. (SimTech) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in its job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the following email address, HR@simtechinc.com and/or phone number (256.428.2910) to contact us about your interest in employment with SimTech.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, citizenship, ancestry, marital status, protected veteran status, disability status or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. SimTech participates in E-Verify.