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Welder Apprentice Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cal Cat Industries, LLC

Welder

Hughson, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Specialize in one of several processes of welding. Works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned welding tasks. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA

$23 - $25.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Welded parts may include thin gauge, painted, or galvanized material. The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced ...

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Welded parts may include thin gauge, painted, or galvanized material. The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced ...

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Welded parts may include thin gauge, painted, or galvanized material. The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Planada, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Denair, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Livingston, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Ballico, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Newman, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Jamestown, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Hickman, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Turlock, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Waterford, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Winton, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Gustine, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Firebaugh, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Mariposa, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Hughson, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Le Grand, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

US Navy

Aircrew Rescue Swimmer & Navy Diver

Fairmead, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... weld, and repair ships and submarines; conduct deep and saturation diving using SCUBA, surface ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

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All JobsWelder Apprentice JobsWelder Apprentice Jobs in Merced, CA

Welder Apprentice information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$20

$28

How much do welder apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder apprentice in Merced, CA is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $23.37 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.

More about Welder Apprentice jobs

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

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Welder Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welder Apprentice job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,013 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Welder

Cal Cat Industries, LLC

Hughson, CA • On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description:Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Applies basic skills and advanced skills using tools and equipment appropriate for welding. Specialize in one of several processes of welding. Works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned welding tasks.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Resolve routine questions and problems and refers more complex issues to higher levels
  • Accurately interpret and apply information from work orders, job orders, specifications, blueprints, ISO’s or other drawings and recognize basic blueprint terms and symbols for job application
  • Identify, recognize and demonstrate safe usage of hand tools and power tools appropriate for the job
  • Recognize various materials used in the craft and demonstrate a working knowledge of appropriate material handling techniques
  • Select and safely use appropriate equipment, which may include, but not limited to: man lifts. Forklifts, and company trucks
  • Identify, recognize and demonstrate safe usage of appropriate personal protective equipment for the craft
  • Weld materials such as stainless steel, mild steel and aluminum
  • Plan work by interpreting blueprints
  • Select and set up welding equipment based on safety guidelines
  • Ensures welds meet standards and specifications
  • Grind and finish welds to make aesthetically appealing
  • De-burring of metal parts using both powered and non-powered means
  • Washing, stripping and painting of finished metal products
  • Attention to details
  • Perform daily housekeeping tasks (5S) and preventative maintenance tasks
  • The employee must participate in safety meetings, safety programs and the quality process
  • Clean, wrap, move and load completed product to prepare for shipping
Requirements:

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

  • Fabrication: 1 year (Preferred)
  • TIG welding: 2 years (Required)
  • MIG welding: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • CA Driver's License (Required)

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Vocational certificate for related field, preferred.
  • 5+ years of welding experience preferred.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally.
  • Work requires strong attention to detail and high focus on safety and quality.
  • Ability to use basic hand tools and power tools.
  • Able to safely operate 6,000 lb. forklift.
  • Ability to read measuring devices.
  • Basic Math skills required.
  • Ability to safely operate equipment (welder, torch, plasma cutter, grinder, material handling equipment)
  • Ability to distinguish the various thickness and type of material.
  • Must pass welding skills test on material in use.
  • Knowledge of de-burring, grinding, polishing and striping is desirable.
  • Stainless TIG welding skills required.
  • Must be able and willing to work additional hours and weekends to meet business needs.