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Welder Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Welder

San Diego, CA · On-site

$69K - $82K/yr

Successful completion of a state-accredited four-year Welder Apprenticeship Program in combination welding (electric and acetylene). An equivalent combination of experience and training as specified ...

Completion of a welding apprenticeship program or equivalent hands-on training * Ability to read, understand and interpret blueprints and welding process specifications * Ability to lift up to 50 ...

Welder I

Stockton, CA · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Completion of a welding apprenticeship program or equivalent hands-on training * Ability to read, understand and interpret blueprints and welding process specifications * Ability to lift up to 50 ...

Welder

Lakeside, CA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Requires high school diploma or its equivalent Completed an apprenticeship and/or formal training in welding REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: At least 6 years of experience in welding ALTERNATIVE TO MINIMUM ...

Welder

Lakeside, CA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Requires high school diploma or its equivalent Completed an apprenticeship and/or formal training in welding REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: At least 6 years of experience in welding ALTERNATIVE TO MINIMUM ...

Successful completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is required * Professional Certification, such as AWS welding certificate, will be a bonus HMT is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Education and Experience: · Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR successful completion of an in-company, three-year training program required. Physical Requirements: · Must be able to weld ...

Welder

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$21.83 - $38/hr

Experience working in the marine welding/fitter trade gained through a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training is preferred. * Thorough knowledge of welding standards of SMAW, GMAW, GTAW and/or ...

Welder

Chula Vista, CA

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Experience working in the marine welding/fitter trade gained through a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training is preferred. * Thorough knowledge of welding standards of SMAW, GMAW, GTAW and/or ...

Experience working in the marine welding/fitter trade gained through a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training is preferred. * Thorough knowledge of welding standards of SMAW, GMAW, GTAW and/or ...

Welder A

Paramount, CA · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Successful completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is required * Professional Certification, such as AWS welding certificate, will be a bonus HMT is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Welder, Manufacturing

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Successful completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is preferred * Professional Certification (e.g. an AWS welding certificate) will be a plus Desired Experience * Manufacturing: 6+ months ...

Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process * Certification required: AWS D1.1 FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding) * High School Diploma or equivalent

Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process * Certification required: AWS D1.1 FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding) * High School Diploma or equivalent

Structural Welder

Fontana, CA · On-site

$21.96 - $29.64/hr

Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process * Certification required: AWS D1.1 FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding) * High School Diploma or equivalent

Welder, Manufacturing

Fresno, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Successful completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is preferred * Professional Certification (e.g. an AWS welding certificate) will be a plus Desired Experience * Manufacturing: 6+ months ...

Completion of a formal apprenticeship OR 2+ years' experience in dual shield welding process * Certification required: AWS D1.1 FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding) * High School Diploma or equivalent

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Welder Apprentice information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$26

How much do welder apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder apprentice in California is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a welder apprentice?

As an Apprentice Welder, you will work alongside experienced Welders and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your welding career. You will become familiar with various types of welding and equipment, learn about safety and quality standards, and develop your welding technique all under the supervision of a seasoned professional or team of welders. As your skills increase, so will your responsibilities, giving you the hands-on experience you need to enter this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welder apprentice?

To thrive as a Welder Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of welding techniques, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with welding equipment such as MIG, TIG, and arc welders, as well as safety certifications like OSHA 10, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong hand-eye coordination, and a willingness to learn from experienced welders are critical soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure quality workmanship, personal safety, and steady progression within the skilled trades.

What are some common challenges faced by welder apprentices during their training period?

Welder apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise welding techniques, adapting to different types of metals and welding processes, and maintaining strict safety standards in potentially hazardous environments. Balancing on-the-job training with classroom instruction can also be demanding, as apprentices must quickly absorb technical knowledge while developing hands-on skills. Additionally, working in various conditions—indoors, outdoors, or in confined spaces—requires adaptability and physical endurance. Supportive mentors and a collaborative team environment can help apprentices overcome these hurdles as they gain experience.

What is the difference between Welder Apprentice vs Welder?

AspectWelder ApprenticeWelder
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; sometimes certifications in welding safetyCompleted apprenticeship or training; certifications like AWS welding certification often required
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction, manufacturing facilities, shipyardsManufacturing plants, construction sites, repair shops
Job RoleLearning welding techniques under supervision, assisting experienced weldersPerforming welding tasks independently, ensuring quality and safety

The main difference between a Welder Apprentice and a Welder is experience and responsibility. An apprentice is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a welder works independently with more advanced skills and certifications. Both roles are essential in the welding industry, with apprentices progressing toward becoming certified welders.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in California?

The most popular types of Welder jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Welder Apprentice jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Welder Apprentice jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Welder Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Welder Apprentice job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Welder Apprentice jobs in CA?

For Welder Apprentice jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Welder Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,197 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Apprentice Welder

Impress Staffing Solutions - Modesto

Oakdale, CA • On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Apprentice Welder

Oakdale, CA
$23.00 - $25.00 per hour DOE
Full-Time | Temp-to-Hire

Launch Your Welding Career

A well-established industrial and manufacturing operation in Oakdale is seeking an Apprentice Welder to join its welding and fabrication team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with basic welding experience who is looking to develop their skills and grow into a long-term career.

This position offers a temp-to-hire pathway with strong potential for permanent employment for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with welding and fabrication projects
  • Perform basic welding tasks in a production environment
  • Operate grinders and other fabrication equipment safely
  • Prepare materials for welding and assembly
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area
  • Follow workplace safety standards and procedures
  • Support experienced welders with various shop projects
  • Read and follow verbal and written instructions

Qualifications

Required

  • Basic welding experience
  • Experience using grinders and hand tools
  • Ability to follow instructions in English, both verbally and in writing
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality

Preferred

  • 1-3 years of welding experience
  • Experience with fabrication, grinding, or metalworking
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing, agricultural, construction, or industrial environment
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Interview Process

Qualified candidates will participate in a hands-on welding assessment during the interview process to evaluate skill level, welding knowledge, and comfort working in a fabrication environment.

Compensation & Benefits

✅ $23.00-$25.00 per hour depending on experience

✅ Full-time schedule

✅ Temp-to-hire opportunity

✅ On-the-job training and skill development

✅ Career growth potential

✅ Stable work environment with a growing team

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who:

  • Wants to build a long-term career in welding
  • Takes pride in quality workmanship
  • Enjoys hands-on work
  • Has a positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Is eager to learn from experienced professionals


Apply Today

If you have welding experience and are ready to take the next step in your career, we'd like to hear from you.

Company Description

Impress Staffing Solutions has partnered with many different companies here in the valley to help you find the long term employment you're looking for. Please contact us now for more information on how to start searching for gainful employment right now.