1

Weld Operator Jobs in Valley, AL (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Lagrange, GA ยท On-site

$17.75/hr

Previous experience in a warehouse, logistics, lumber, carpentry, lumber, welding, roofing, and/or ... Forklift Operator to join our team! The work environment characteristics described here are ...

Wastewater Technician

Columbus, GA ยท On-site

$38.64/hr

Monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges * Collect and test water and sewage samples ... Hand tools, grinder, welder, oxolane torch, pipe threader, benders, hard hat, safety glasses ...

Read / understand operating manuals for plant machinery. * Utilize diagnostic equipment (meters), and hand tools. * Be proficient with fabrication tools (welding, oxy/acetyl torch) required. * Other ...

Groundman/Maintenance

Fortson, GA ยท On-site

$1.0K - $1.3K/wk

Read / understand operating manuals for plant machinery. Utilize diagnostic equipment (meters), and hand tools. Be proficient with fabrication tools (welding, oxy/acetyl torch) required. Other duties ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Weld Operator information

See Valley, AL salary details

$11

$15

$19

How much do weld operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld operator in Valley, AL is $15.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 cities near Valley, AL are hiring for Weld Operator jobs? Cities near Valley, AL with the most Weld Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Weld Operator job openings in Valley, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,830 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Metal Form and MIG Weld Training Operator

Donaldson Company, Inc.

Auburn, AL โ€ข On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Donaldson is committed to solving the world's most complex filtration challenges. Together, we make cool things. As an established technology and innovation leader, we are continuously evolving to meet the filtration needs of our changing world. Join a culture of collaboration and innovation that matters and a chance to learn, effect change, and make meaningful contributions at work and in communities.
The Weld Trainee will operate equipment to assist welders and will learn various types of welds to meet and exceed customer expectations while following all safety, quality, production and environmental practices. The goal for the position is to train for welding and to become a Donaldson Certified Welder. The role is located on-site at our manufacturing site in Auburn, AL. This role is first shift with hours of 5:00 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Thursday, and weekends as needed with hours of 5:00 am to 1:30 pm.
Role Responsibilities:
  • Operate equipment and learn to perform Mig welding processes.
  • Learn to adjust welding machine settings as required to maintain a quality weld.
  • Performs setups and changeovers for departments in a safe, efficient, and timely manner.
  • Learn to change tips, weld liner, nozzle, wire, and torch.
  • May rotate to other departments as needed to operate a variety of equipment.
  • Use all designated Personal Protective Equipment as required. May be required to wear PAPR.
  • Interprets part prints, specifications, production orders, and troubleshoot equipment.
  • Completes daily inspections and cleaning of machines and work areas.
  • Utilize route sheets and blueprints as needed to produce parts accordingly.
  • Able to work scheduled overtime hours.
  • Perform other tasks as directed.

Minimum Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to demonstrate ability to:
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the operation, changeover, and all required quality checks for department for which applying.
  • Reads and understands blueprints, pack specs, shipping requirements, and route sheets.
  • Shows strong attention to detail, quality, and safety.
  • Ability to work in a team environment toward a common goal.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Some welding knowledge.

Immigration Sponsorship Not Available:
  • Applicants for this position must be currently and legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship (e.g., H-1B, J-1, F-1, CPT, OPT, etc.).
  • Donaldson will not offer immigration sponsorship or assume sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.
  • International relocation or remote work arrangements outside of the U.S. will not be considered.

Keywords: Mig welding, blueprints, safety, troubleshooting, quality checks, team environment
Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability and Veterans
Employment opportunities for positions in the United States may require use of information which is subject to the export control regulations of the United States. Hiring decisions for such positions are required by law to be made in compliance with these regulations. Applicants for employment opportunities in other countries must be able to meet the comparable export control requirements of that country and of the United States.
Donaldson Company has been made aware that there are several recruiting scams that are targeting job seekers. These scams have attempted to solicit money for job applications and/or collect confidential information, Donaldson will never solicit money during the application or recruiting process. Donaldson only accepts online applications through our Careers | Donaldson Company, Inc. website and any communication from a Donaldson recruiter would be sent using a donaldson.com email address. If you have any questions about the legitimacy of an employment opportunity, please reach out to talentacquisition@donaldson.com to verify that the communication is from Donaldson.
Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, gender, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity and/or expression, or other status protected by law.