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Trainee Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

HII

$59K - $62K/yr

The Welding trainee program is offered once a month with 8-10 students per class, and is held at Virginia Peninsula Community College (Hampton, VA), Tidewater Community College (Portsmouth, VA), or ...

HII

Welder - Manufacturing

Newport News, VA · On-site

$59K - $62K/yr

The Welding trainee program is offered once a month with 8-10 students per class, and is held at Virginia Peninsula Community College (Hampton, VA), Tidewater Community College (Portsmouth, VA), or ...

HII

Welder - Hiring Now

Newport News, VA · On-site

$59K - $62K/yr

The Welding trainee program is offered once a month with 8-10 students per class, and is held at Virginia Peninsula Community College (Hampton, VA), Tidewater Community College (Portsmouth, VA), or ...

HII

$59K - $62K/yr

The Welding trainee program is offered once a month with 8-10 students per class, and is held at Virginia Peninsula Community College (Hampton, VA), Tidewater Community College (Portsmouth, VA), or ...

JVH COMPANY

Welder

Ashland, VA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Ability to produce quality welds independently from day one (no trainees) * Experience welding aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel * Strong blueprint and schematic reading skills

JVH COMPANY

Welder

Ashland, VA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Ability to produce quality welds independently from day one (no trainees) * Experience welding aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel * Strong blueprint and schematic reading skills

JVH COMPANY

Welder

Ashland, VA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Ability to produce quality welds independently from day one (no trainees) * Experience welding aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel * Strong blueprint and schematic reading skills

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Trainee Welding information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do trainee welding jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee welding in Virginia is $43,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Welders during their initial training period?

Trainee Welders often encounter challenges such as mastering precise hand-eye coordination, understanding various welding techniques, and interpreting complex blueprints or technical drawings. Adjusting to the physical demands of the job, such as working in confined spaces or at heights, can also be an initial hurdle. However, with hands-on practice and guidance from experienced welders, most trainees quickly improve their skills and gain confidence in handling different materials and equipment.

What is the difference between Trainee Welding vs Welding Apprentice?

AspectTrainee WeldingWelding Apprentice
CertificationsOften requires basic safety and introductory certificationsTypically involves earning certifications through on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised settings in manufacturing or constructionOn-the-job training in various industrial or construction sites
Employer UsageTraining programs or companies hiring beginnersApprenticeships offered by unions or companies for skill development

Both roles serve as entry points into welding careers, focusing on skill development and certification. While Trainee Welding often refers to initial training programs, Welding Apprenticeships provide structured, hands-on learning with mentorship. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right path for their career growth.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding jobs that pay $50 an hour typically include skilled positions such as pipe welders, underwater welders, and industrial welders with specialized certifications. These roles often require experience, advanced skills, and the ability to work in challenging environments or perform complex tasks. Pay rates can vary based on location, project complexity, and certifications held.

Do welders make $100 an hour?

Welders, including trainee welders, typically do not earn $100 an hour. The average hourly wage for welders varies by experience, location, and industry, but most earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with higher rates for specialized skills or certifications. Earning $100 an hour is uncommon and usually reserved for highly experienced or specialized welders working in niche markets or on complex projects.

What are trainee welders?

Trainee welders are individuals who are learning the basic skills and techniques required for welding under the supervision of experienced professionals. They typically participate in hands-on training programs, apprenticeships, or entry-level positions to gain practical experience with different welding methods and safety practices. Trainee welders often work towards obtaining certifications and advancing to more specialized or independent welding roles as they develop their skills.

How to get a job as a welder with no experience?

To get a job as a trainee welder with no experience, focus on obtaining basic welding certifications such as OSHA safety training and introductory welding courses. Gaining hands-on practice through apprenticeships, volunteering, or entry-level positions can also improve your chances, as employers value practical skills and a willingness to learn.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Welder, you need a basic understanding of welding techniques, safety procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with welding machines, measuring tools, and safety equipment is commonly required, and certifications like OSHA safety training or entry-level welding certificates can be advantageous. Attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and good hand-eye coordination are important soft skills that help trainees excel. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring quality work, maintaining a safe environment, and progressing effectively in the welding trade.

How to become a trainee welder?

To become a trainee welder, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should complete a welding training program or apprenticeship to learn techniques and safety procedures. Gaining certification, such as the AWS Certified Welder, can improve job prospects, and hands-on experience with welding tools and equipment is essential for entry-level positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Welding jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Welding jobs in Virginia? For Trainee Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Welding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Welding jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Welding jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Welding job openings:
Trainee Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Welding job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,157 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Fabrication Trainee

W and W AFCO Steel LLC

Bristol, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
ATTACHING A RESUME IS REQUIRED.
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE WITH THIS ONLINE JOB APPLICATION PROCESS, PLEASE CALL 336-271-8251.
Position Description
Work - Learn - Grow
Fabrication Trainees are entry level, hands-on employees with a desire to learn a trade and build a career in an essential industry. Trainees work closely with skilled welders, machines operators, and experienced industrial painters to learn valuable skills. Day-to-day duties involve the use of hand tools and measuring tapes. Trainees learn to operate various fabrication equipment including drills, grinders, press brakes, blasters, paint processes. Trainees will have opportunities to learn the basics of welding and fitting, operation of CNC equipment, and application of multi application processes.
Position Requirements
Successful candidates will possess:
1. Desire to learn and grow with an industry leader.
2. Ability to work in a non-climate controlled environment.
3. Ability to solve basic math problems and read tape measure.
4. Ability stand and walk for 8+ hours with intervals of stooping, squatting, bending, reaching, pushing and pulling.
5. Manual dexterity to work with various hand tools.
6, Ability to left 50 pounds.
7. Ability to work in a team environment and accomplish tasks with minimal supervision.
8. Strong commitment to safety and adherence to all safety protocols.
Equal Opportunity Employer
W&W|AFCO Steel is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment. W&W|AFCO provides equal opportunity and access for all persons, without regard to race; color; religion; national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, or gender identity); age (40 and older); disability; genetics; veteran status; or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

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