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Weld Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

MIG Welder - 2nd Shift

Manchester, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Corrects welds by chipping or grinding off excess weld, slag or splatter using hand scrapers, portable grinders or arc-cutting equipment. * Move components by operating an overhead crane, using safe ...

Welder/Fabricator

De Witt, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Wendling Quarries, Inc. (WQI) is a third-generation family owned and operated business that ... Weld components using a variety of processes including TIG, MIG and ARC, Plasma cutter, Oxy ...

... execute complex weld assemblies with precision and consistency, setting the standard for ... operating procedures; reports equipment issues to supervisor promptly. • Documents all production ...

Senior Welder/Fabricator

Creston, IA

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Welder/Fabricator -- Creston, IA Compensation: DOE - Competitive Employment Type: Full-Time ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

CNC Robotic Welder

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for operating and maintaining robotic welding machines to ensure that welding processes meet required quality standards. * Receive a passing score on the Welder Qualification test within ...

Machine Operator

Clinton, IA

$17.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and weld. ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: * Follow detailed instructions of assignment including but not ...

Machine Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$17.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and weld. ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: * Follow detailed instructions of assignment including but not ...

Machine Operator

Clinton, IA · On-site

$17.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operators play a key role in maintaining product integrity and readiness for final assembly and weld. ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: * Follow detailed instructions of assignment including but not ...

Research Engineer - Welding

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$36.50 - $50.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating and technical services personnel on project or technical service activities (planning, execution and reporting). Assist with maintaining the welder qualification program at SSAB mills in ...

... center operators across North America. Responsibilities: * Read and interpret project plans ... Perform MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored welding on various metals, including stainless steel ...

Welder

Coggon, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24/hr

... center operators across North America. Responsibilities: * Read and interpret project plans ... Perform MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored welding on various metals, including stainless steel ...

Showing results 41-60

Weld Operator information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weld operator?

To thrive as a Weld Operator, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of welding techniques, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in welding. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, blueprints, and sometimes certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in handling complex tasks and collaborating with others. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality welds, maintaining workplace safety, and ensuring efficient production processes.

What are some common challenges faced by weld operators, and how can they be managed?

Weld Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent weld quality, working with different metals, and adhering to strict safety standards. Managing these challenges involves staying up to date with proper welding techniques, following detailed blueprints, and using protective gear to minimize health risks. Collaboration with quality control inspectors and maintenance teams is also essential to ensure equipment is functioning correctly and finished products meet specifications. By staying organized and proactive, Weld Operators can effectively overcome these daily obstacles and contribute to a smooth production process.

How much do weld operators make?

Weld operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled welders with certifications and experience in specialized techniques can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas sectors.

What does a weld operator do?

A Weld Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining welding machines that join metal parts together. They typically follow blueprints or instructions to ensure precise welds and monitor the welding process for quality and safety. Weld Operators may work in manufacturing, construction, or repair industries, and must be familiar with different welding techniques and safety protocols. Their role is crucial for producing strong, durable products and structures.

What is the difference between Weld Operator vs Welder?

AspectWeld OperatorWelder
CertificationsTypically requires AWS or ASME certificationsOften requires similar certifications, but may vary by specialization
Work EnvironmentFactories, construction sites, manufacturing plantsFactories, construction sites, repair shops
Job FocusOperates welding machinery, sets parametersPerforms manual welding tasks
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing and industrial settingsWidespread across construction, manufacturing, repair

Weld Operators primarily focus on operating welding equipment and setting parameters, while Welders perform manual welding tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but their job responsibilities differ in terms of automation versus manual work.

What are popular job titles related to Weld Operator jobs in Iowa? For Weld Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Weld Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Weld Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Weld Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Weld Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Weld Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Position Description:

General Summary:

As a valued member of the XL Specialized Trailers team, this job is responsible for assembling products using hand-held welding and flame-cutting equipment to join metal components following assembly instructions and procedures.

Responsibilities, Qualifications or Skills Required:

  • Prepares work to be accomplished by studying assembly instructions, blueprints specifications and parts lists; gathering parts, subassemblies, tools and materials.
  • Positions parts and subassemblies by using templates or reading measurements.
  • Assembles components by examining connections for correct fit; fastening parts and subassemblies with hand-held welding equipment.
  • Corrects welds by chipping or grinding off excess weld, slag or splatter using hand scrapers, portable grinders or arc-cutting equipment.
  • Move components by operating an overhead crane, using safe work habits.
  • Verifies specifications by measuring completed components; conducting a self-inspection.
  • Resolves assembly problems by altering dimensions to meet specifications; notifying supervisor to obtain additional resources.
  • Keeps equipment operational by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following operating procedures.
  • Document actions by completing production, quality and time forms.
  • Maintains safe and clean working environment by complying with procedures, rules and regulations. Wear proper personal protective equipment.
  • Identifies and anticipates safety and health concerns and hazards by surveying environmental, operational, and occupational conditions.

Education and Experience Requirements:

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • One year welding experience
  • Proven ability to weld using MIG hand-held welder
  • Basic understand of Shop Math
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and specification.
  • Ability to work overtime as required including Saturdays.


XL Specialized Trailers is an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability/veteran