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Welder Apprentice Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Welder

Portland, ME · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Some welding experience is preferred, and we'll provide additional training to make sure every weld meets our standards. We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, pays attention to ...

New

Welder

South Portland, ME

$37.68 - $43.96/hr

Welding the various components of a ship including the shell, broken or cracked engine parts, framing, inner bottoms, tanks, boilers, decks, bulkheads, superstructures, masts, stacks, ventilation ...

New

Welder

South Portland, ME

$37.68 - $43.96/hr

Welding the various components of a ship including the shell, broken or cracked engine parts, framing, inner bottoms, tanks, boilers, decks, bulkheads, superstructures, masts, stacks, ventilation ...

New

Welder II

Gorham, ME · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

The Welder II is responsible for welding all types of commonly used metals and alloys of various sizes, shapes and thicknesses and assembling metal fabrications. The Welder II works from ...

Welder II

Gorham, ME · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

The Welder II is responsible for welding all types of commonly used metals and alloys of various sizes, shapes and thicknesses and assembling metal fabrications. The Welder II works from ...

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Welder Apprentice information

See Portland, ME salary details

$9

$20

$27

How much do welder apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder apprentice in Portland, ME is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $22.64 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 Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Welder jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Welder Apprentice jobs in Portland, ME?

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

What job categories do people searching Welder Apprentice jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Welder Apprentice jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Welder Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Welder Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Welder Apprentice job openings in Portland, ME 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 $41,685 per year, or $20 per hour.

$31.31 - $39.03/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


General Dynamics Bath Iron Works rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The pay for this position ranges from $31.31 per hour - $39.03 per hour. 

BIW APPRENTICE SCHOOL ADMISSIONS

Apprenticeship is an educational and career opportunity unlike any other - Earn while you learn! We offer high quality, comprehensive apprenticeship opportunities for highly motivated students interested in getting a college degree while launching their shipbuilding career (https://gdbiw.com/careers/apprenticeship-programs/).
 
THIS POSTING IS FOR AN 8,000 HR (APPROX 4 YEAR) APPRENTICESHIP IN A MANUFACTURING TRADE THAT INCLUDES RIGOROUS COLLEGE COURSEWORK. ALL 8,000 HOURS ARE SERVED IN ONE TRADE.
 
TRADE JOB DESCRIPTION
Apprenticeship is a first shift position.
Apprenticeships may be available in the following trades: carpentry, electricians, machinists (inside and outside), pipefitters, shipfitters, tinsmiths, welders, and maintenance. Each trade has their own job requirements and may have additional requirements beyond those listed below. For more detail on each trade, please visit: Apprenticeship Programs – General Dynamics – Bath Iron Works (gdbiw.com)


Required:

  • Be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
  • Have a high school education or equivalent (GED) at the time of hire.
  • Have competence with common PC-based software (Microsoft Office products, Internet browser, etc.).
  • Have access to computer, Internet, and common software outside of work for completing course assignments.

Required Submissions:

  • Submit a cover letter explaining your motivation for apply to this position within 30-days of applying.
  • Submit official transcripts from all high schools and colleges attended within 30-days of applying.
  • Submit and demonstrate college readiness in reading, writing, and mathematics through taking the ACCUPLACER test at your local community college within 30-days of applying.

After submitting the initial on-line application, you have 30-days to provide all supporting documentation e.g., cover letter, high school and college transcripts, and your ACCUPLACER score. Further communication/emails will direct the applicant regarding how to take the ACCUPLACER and submit documents.  For those who are local to BIW, a popular location is SMCC’s Midcoast Campus located in Brunswick, ME. However, if you live in another state and your local community college offers a different placement test, we may accept them as a replacement to the ACCUPLACER. For more information on the test please visit https://accuplacer.collegeboard.org/ The admissions staff reviews applications only after receiving all documentation.
 
Preferred:

  • Trade/Vocational School graduate.
  • Experience using basic hand tools and working in a construction or industrial manufacturing environment.

Required:

  • Must meet the requirements of the Physical Task Analysis, including (but not limited to): climbing ladders, climbing stairs, working inside, outside, at heights, in confined spaces, on units, on ships, and/or in buildings.
  • Ability to wear a respirator, use hand tools, and use pneumatic tools is.
  • Ability to read tape measure, add/subtract tape measurements, and basic math skills. 

Preferred:

  • Background in construction, building houses, automotive, spray painting, grinding, burning steel, pipe fitting, electrical, insulating, tin work, steel fabrication, etc.
  • Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend blueprints and other technical documents preferred.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.

What General Dynamics Bath Iron Works employees say

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