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Welder Apprentice Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Welder - Manufacturing

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $29.12/hr

The Welder is responsible for operating welding equipment to build high quality parts, subassemblies, and finished product; weldments vary in type, size, and direction and are performed on a variety ...

Welder

Wanamingo, MN · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Welder Wanamingo, MN About Concast Inc Concast Inc. is a leader in precast concrete manufacturing, producing essential products that keep construction and infrastructure projects moving. From utility ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $28.34/hr

Passed weld test either through pre-employment test or through internal weld program * Ability to start and run a welder * Ability effectively preforms job tasks within one station with little to no ...

Will weld to AWS specs spot weld, operate a variety of tools and equipment. Tools will include prints, bills, ARI, engineering/supervisor direction. Compensation: $29.11 per hour MAJOR DUTIES AND ...

Passed weld test either through pre-employment test or through internal weld program * Ability to start and run a welder * Ability effectively preforms job tasks within one station with little to no ...

Company Bonus Plan If you are a skilled Welder looking for an exciting new opportunity, join our team of Welders in our Dodge Center, MN production facility. YOUR IMPACT: * Heat and form metal parts ...

Welder - 2nd Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $28.34/hr

Passed weld test either through pre-employment test or through internal weld program * Ability to start and run a welder * Ability effectively preforms job tasks within one station with little to no ...

Welder - 1st Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $28.34/hr

Company Bonus Plan If you are a skilled Welder looking for an exciting new opportunity, join our team of Welders in our Dodge Center, MN production facility. YOUR IMPACT: * Heat and form metal parts ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $28.34/hr

Passed weld test either through pre-employment test or through internal weld program * Ability to start and run a welder * Ability effectively preforms job tasks within one station with little to no ...

Welder - 2nd Shift

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $28.34/hr

Passed weld test either through pre-employment test or through internal weld program * Ability to start and run a welder * Ability effectively preforms job tasks within one station with little to no ...

Overview Join our dynamic team in Zumbrota, MN, as a Welder/Fabricator! We are looking for a skilled individual who is passionate about metalworking and has a keen eye for detail. In this role, you ...

Overview Join our dynamic team in Zumbrota, MN, as a Welder/Fabricator! We are looking for a skilled individual who is passionate about metalworking and has a keen eye for detail. In this role, you ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Dodge Center, MN · On-site

$21 - $29.12/hr

The Welder is responsible for operating welding equipment to build high quality parts, subassemblies, and finished product; weldments vary in type, size, and direction and are performed on a variety ...

Welder Fabricator

Wanamingo, MN · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Perform MIG welding on steel parts and assemblies. * Operate an industrial forklift safely and efficiently. * Make minor repairs or adjustments to fixtures and tooling. * Maintain a clean and ...

Company-Provided Uniforms and PPE Position Summary The Welder/Rebar Fabricator supports Concast's precast concrete production process by cutting, bending, preparing, and spot-welding rebar cages used ...

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Showing results 1-20

Welder Apprentice information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do welder apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder apprentice in Rochester, MN is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Welder Apprentice, and why are they important?

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.

How much does an apprentice welder get?

An apprentice welder typically earns between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. As they gain skills and certifications, their wages usually increase, and some programs offer additional benefits or stipends during training.

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 an Apprentice Welder?

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.

How to get into a welding apprenticeship?

To enter a welding apprenticeship, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and may be required to pass a skills assessment. Many programs require a minimum age of 18 and may include physical fitness tests; some also prefer candidates with prior experience or certifications in safety or basic welding techniques. Applying through local trade schools, unions, or employers offering apprenticeship programs is common, and completing related coursework can improve chances of acceptance.

Can welders get paid $50 an hour?

Welder apprentices typically earn less than $50 an hour, as this rate is usually associated with experienced or certified welders. Entry-level apprentices often start at lower wages, but wages can increase with skill development, certifications, and experience in specialized welding techniques or industries. Factors such as location, employer, and the complexity of projects also influence pay rates.

Do welders make $100 an hour?

Welder apprentices typically do not earn $100 an hour; their wages are usually lower as they are in training. Experienced welders with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher wages, sometimes approaching or exceeding $50 to $70 per hour, depending on the industry and location. Earning $100 an hour is uncommon for most welding roles, especially for those still in apprenticeship programs.

What are welder apprentices?

Welder apprentices are individuals who are learning the trade of welding through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. They work under the supervision of experienced welders to develop skills in joining metal parts using various welding techniques. Typically, a welder apprenticeship program lasts 2-4 years and includes both practical experience and theoretical education. Upon completion, apprentices are usually eligible to become certified welders and pursue full-time positions in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Welder jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Welder Apprentice jobs in Rochester, MN? For Welder Apprentice jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Welder Apprentice jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Welder Apprentice jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Welder Apprentice jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Welder Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Welder Apprentice job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,402 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Welder - Manufacturing

Welder - Manufacturing

Oshkosh Corporation

Dodge Center, MN • On-site

$21 - $29.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 485 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About McNeilus, an Oshkosh Company
McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing Inc. is committed to serving everyday heroes and is an industry leading designer and manufacturer of refuse truck bodies. McNeilus produces a complete line of high-performance rear load, front load, and automated side load refuse bodies to augment any refuse collection fleet. Our team members are critical in our mission of supporting waste warriors and keeping communities safe and clean.
JOB SUMMARY:
The Welder is responsible for operating welding equipment to build high quality parts, subassemblies, and finished product; weldments vary in type, size, and direction and are performed on a variety of production lines. The Welder will also weld/rework various products and perform different weld techniques including flat, vertical, overhead positions, and rework raw and/or finished products.
Pay Range: $21 - $29.12
$2/Hour Shift Differential (2nd Shift Only)
YOUR IMPACT:
These duties are not meant to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.
  • Heat and form metal parts and components using hand tools, torch, plasma cutter/ carbon arc or other welding equipment; properly position material/parts to be welded. capable of welding all materials at the location.
  • Operate an overhead crane to maneuver parts safely into place; adjust welding current to proper weld configurations Accurately operate and read measuring devices.
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment in compliance with safety procedures, rules, and proper 6S standards; use practices to follow all safe procedures in assembling and testing of all models/products in assigned job function.
  • Train and work in various areas of production in response to production demands.
  • Position, assemble, and weld various metal parts properly as outlined on blueprints.
  • Operate robot/Tube welder and work in all workstations within weld area; startup operate and troubleshoot.
  • Rework on raw material, finished machines, out of process welding activities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • One (1) year of applicable position experience or an evaluated equivalent.
  • Passed weld test either through pre-employment test or through internal weld program.

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Knows a minimum of three (3) weld stations without assistance and should be proficient in training others on these three stations.
  • Ability effectively preforms job tasks within one station with little to no quality defects or guidance.
  • Willingness to learn to change their own wire.
  • Class A/B surface welding proficient.
  • Ability to weld on a truck chassis (Dodge Center only).
  • Understanding of quality defects within weld on product in multiple areas.
  • Willingness to perform rework.
  • Two (2) or more years of applicable position experience.

CORE COMPETENCIES:
  • Internal Contacts: Contact with peers and others involving explanation of information (these contacts may be within or outside department or division), and the gathering of factual information; may include the communication of sensitive or confidential information.
  • External Contacts: Limited external contact to: gather information, answer queries, or ask assistance.
  • Communication Skills: Read, write and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence and memos. Read and interpret safety rules, operating/maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Read, analyze and interpret business manuals, technical procedures, blueprints, and/or government regulations.
  • Decision-Making: Requires minimal decision-making responsibility.
  • Complexity, Judgment and Problem Solving: Work of a relatively routine nature. Requires the ability to understand the follow instructions.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Physical Demands: Frequent: Standing, Walking/Running, Sitting, Reaching, Hearing, Talking, Visual, Typing; Occasional: Climbing, Driving, Bending/Kneeling, Hearing, Talking, Visual, Typing, Fine Dexterity, Manual Dexterity; Upper Extremity Repetitive Motion, Lifting/Carrying 25lbs., Pushing/Pulling 25llbs.
  • Non-Physical Demands: Occasional: Analysis/Reasoning, Communication/Interpretation, Math/Mental Computation, Reading, Sustained Mental Activity (i.e. auditing, problem solving, grant writing, composing reports), Writing.
  • Environmental Demands: Occasional: Work Alone, Frequent Task Changes, Tedious/Exacting Work, Dust, Temperature Extremes, Loud Noises.
  • Work Schedule: Routine shift hours. Infrequent overtime, weekend, or shift rotation.
  • Demands/Deadlines: Occasional stress due to deadlines or workload because of intermittent or cyclical work pressures, or occasional exposure to distressed individuals within the immediate work environment.

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email [email protected].
Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.
Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.
Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.

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