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Weld Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Spirit AeroSystems

Weld Inspector

Wichita, KS · On-site

Associate's degree or technical certification in Welding Technology, Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, or a related technical field. * Strong problem-solving skills and experience working in a ...

ND DEFENSE LLC

Weld Inspector

West Point, MS · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Certificate from a combination welding program, associate degree preferred but notrequired. * Certified NDT level II in MT/PT preferred but notrequired. * Able to read and interpret welding symbols ...

Magna

Weld Engineer

Ethridge, TN · On-site

$32.75 - $45.25/hr

Develop and implement training and certification program for production associates in robotic and hand GMAW/TIG welding techniques and procedures. * Develop and implement work instructions for part ...

Astemo

Weld Technician

Sunbury, OH · On-site

To perform this job successfully, an associate must be able to perform each primary responsibility ... Previous welding experience preferred Background/Skills: * Minimum of 2 years hands-on experience ...

WIELAND

Group Leader Welder - Friday-Sunday

Verona, VA · On-site

$33.25 - $38.39/hr

Previous experience managing/leading a group of production welding associates preferred. * 2 to 5 years of previous industrial manufacturing experience preferred * Ability to effectively communicate ...

Wieland

Group Leader Welder - Friday-Sunday

Verona, VA · On-site

$33.25 - $38.39/hr

Previous experience managing/leading a group of production welding associates preferred. * 2 to 5 years of previous industrial manufacturing experience preferred * Ability to effectively communicate ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Weld Manager

Newton, IA · On-site

Exceptional coaching and influencing skills * 5 years of experience in heavy fabrication without formal education or 2 years of experience with an associate's degree in welding or bachelor's degree ...

Wieland

Group Leader Welder - Friday-Sunday

Verona, VA

$33.25 - $38.39/hr

Previous experience managing/leading a group of production welding associates preferred. * 2 to 5 years of previous industrial manufacturing experience preferred * Ability to effectively communicate ...

Lantech

Welding Team Leader

Louisville, KY · On-site

$26.50/hr

Welding Team Leader - 1st Shift M-Th 6:00am-4:30pm $26.50/hr Who We Are Lantech is the global ... Your leadership helps develop associates, improve processes, and foster a culture of continuous ...

Spirit AeroSystems

Weld Inspector

Wichita, KS · On-site

Associate's degree or technical certification in Welding Technology, Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, or a related technical field. * Strong problem-solving skills and experience working in a ...

Arcosa Lightweight

Weld Manager

Newton, IA · On-site

Exceptional coaching and influencing skills * 5 years of experience in heavy fabrication without formal education or 2 years of experience with an associate's degree in welding or bachelor's degree ...

Wieland

Group Leader Welder - Friday-Sunday

Verona, VA

$33.25 - $38.39/hr

Previous experience managing/leading a group of production welding associates preferred. * 2 to 5 years of previous industrial manufacturing experience preferred * Ability to effectively communicate ...

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Weld Associate information

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$27K

$141.2K

$310.5K

How much do weld associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for weld associate in the United States is $141,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $212,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Weld Associate may face during collaborative projects, and how are they typically addressed?

Weld Associates often work as part of a team, collaborating closely with engineers, fabricators, and quality control personnel. A common challenge is ensuring that welds meet both design specifications and safety standards, especially when working on complex assemblies or tight deadlines. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential to avoid errors and rework. Teams usually address these challenges through regular project meetings, thorough review of blueprints, and adherence to standardized welding procedures. Proactive problem-solving and a willingness to seek guidance from experienced colleagues can help Weld Associates thrive in collaborative environments.

What is the difference between Weld Associate vs Welder?

AspectWeld AssociateWelder
CertificationsTypically holds basic welding certifications, such as AWS Certified WelderRequires specific certifications based on welding type, often similar to Weld Associate
Work EnvironmentOften works in manufacturing, construction, or fabrication settingsWorks in similar environments, performing welding tasks
Job RoleAssists in welding tasks, prepares materials, and supports welding operationsPerforms actual welding, cutting, and fabrication tasks

The main difference between a Weld Associate and a Welder is that the Weld Associate typically supports welding operations and may have basic certifications, while the Welder performs the actual welding tasks. Both roles often work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, but the Welder's focus is on executing welds directly.

Do welders make $100 an hour?

Weld associates typically do not earn $100 an hour; most welders' wages vary based on experience, location, and industry, with average hourly rates generally below that threshold. Highly skilled or specialized welders, such as those with certifications in pipe welding or underwater welding, may earn higher wages, but $100 an hour is uncommon for most positions.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding jobs that pay $50 an hour typically include skilled positions such as pipeline welders, industrial welders, and underwater welders, often requiring specialized certifications and experience. These roles are usually found in industries like oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing, and may involve working in challenging environments or requiring overtime. Compensation varies based on location, skill level, and project complexity.

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

To thrive as a Weld Associate, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with formal welding training often preferred. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, and certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) credentials are commonly required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure high-quality welds, workplace safety, and efficient collaboration on manufacturing or construction projects.

What can I do with an Associate in welding?

An Associate in welding prepares individuals for entry-level welding positions in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and maintenance. Graduates can work as welders, welding technicians, or inspectors, often requiring certification in specific welding techniques and safety standards. The degree provides foundational skills in welding processes, blueprint reading, and safety protocols.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually, but this level of income is typically achieved through extensive experience, specialized skills such as pipe or underwater welding, working in high-paying industries, or overtime. Most welders earn between $40,000 and $70,000 per year, with top earners in certain niches or with advanced certifications reaching higher salaries.

What are Weld Associates?

Weld Associates are skilled workers responsible for joining metal parts together using various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, or arc welding. They read blueprints or technical drawings, set up and operate welding equipment, and inspect their work for quality and safety. Weld Associates often work in manufacturing, construction, or repair industries and may also assist with fabricating and finishing metal structures. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and a strong understanding of safety protocols are important for this role.
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Weld Associate jobs near you
Weld Inspector

Weld Inspector

Spirit AeroSystems

Wichita, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Spirit AeroSystems rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Overview
This role is at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, supporting Spirit's Commercial Business Units ("Spirit Commercial"). Spirit Commercial designs and builds commercial aerostructures, including for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, one of Boeing's three business units and the premier manufacturer of commercial jetliners for decades. Spirit Commercial's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components, with a focus on innovative composite and aluminium manufacturing solutions.
Summary:
We are looking to hire an experienced weld inspector to oversee the quality and safety of our company's welding activities. As a welding inspector, you will be responsible for inspecting and assessing the strength and quality of welds, ensuring the correct equipment is being used, checking weld specifications, and ensuring all safety regulations are being adhered to. To ensure success as a weld inspector, you should have advanced knowledge of modern welding procedures, a good eye for detail, and good communication skills. A top-class welding inspector quickly spots welding flaws and unsafe procedures on the work floor.
Responsibilities
Location: Wichita, KS
Position Responsibilities:
  • Perform production and tooling weld inspections in accordance with company, customer, and regulatory requirements.
  • Conduct visual weld inspections of fusion welds and metallographic inspections of resistance welds.
  • Perform weld pressure testing, hardness testing, and conductivity inspections related to welding processes.
  • Maintain all required weld inspection certifications, including Spirit Production Weld Inspection Certification requirements.
  • Complete and maintain required recurring training and refresher certifications.
  • Interpret and apply welding specifications, engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical documentation.
  • Verify compliance with AWS standards, customer welding specifications, and internal quality procedures.
  • Support welder certification processes and ensure welding operations meet established quality standards.
  • Identify, document, and communicate weld defects or non-conformance issues to production and quality teams.
  • Cross-train in additional inspection methods and become SIA qualified as required.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, engineering, and quality teams to support continuous improvement initiatives and production goals.
  • Maintain accurate inspection records and documentation in compliance with company and customer requirements.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/Experience):
  • Must be willing and able to work any shift.
  • 5+ years of experience in welding fabrication, inspection, design, repair, or a directly related engineering or manufacturing function or an equivalent combination of post-secondary education and related experience in engineering, engineering technology, welding technology, physics, or other technical sciences.
  • Valid AWS QC1 certification or the ability to provide verification of previously held AWS QC1 certification.
  • Knowledge of fusion welding, resistance welding, and orbital welding processes and associated inspection methods.
  • Knowledge of welding terminology and nomenclature in accordance with AWS A3.0 standards.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
  • Understanding of customer welding specifications and varying compliance requirements.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Spirit Production Weld Inspection Certification.
  • Ability to complete required classroom training, written examinations, and practical evaluations for qualification.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to identify weld discontinuities and defects.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a manufacturing and production environment.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Previous aerospace manufacturing or aviation industry experience.
  • Prior experience performing visual weld inspections on aerospace components or tooling.
  • Experience with metallographic inspection techniques and weld pressure testing.
  • Knowledge of nondestructive testing (NDT) methods and quality inspection procedures.
  • Familiarity with Boeing, Spirit AeroSystems, or other aerospace customer specifications.
  • Experience supporting root cause analysis and corrective action activities related to weld quality issues.
  • SIA qualification or willingness to become SIA qualified.
  • Associate's degree or technical certification in Welding Technology, Engineering Technology, Manufacturing, or a related technical field.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and experience working in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Union:
This is a union-represented position.
Drug Free Workplace:
We are a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
We strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
We also provide eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range: $27.55/hour, with potential to earn up to $45.04/hour in accordance with the terms of the relevant collective bargaining agreement.
Kansas Tax Credit: Join Spirit AeroSystems' Kansas team and you may be eligible for a $5,000 state of Kansas Aviation tax credit for up to five years. Click here for more information on the tax credit.

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