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Welder Helper Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Compensation Pay range: $18-20/hour, depending on experience Position Summary The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in ...

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Compensation Pay range: $18-20/hour, depending on experience Position Summary The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in ...

RailWorks

Welder Helper

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Compensation Pay range: $18-20/hour, depending on experience Position Summary The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in ...

RailWorks Corporation

Welder Helper

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Compensation Pay range: $18-20/hour, depending on experience Position Summary The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in ...

ColonialWebb

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

As Pipefitter/welder Helper, you will assist with layout and fabrication of piping systems, fixtures, and equipment for steam, hot water, heating, cooling, lubricating, and industrial processing ...

ColonialWebb

Welder Helper

Richmond, VA

$18 - $21/hr

As Pipefitter/welder Helper, you will assist with layout and fabrication of piping systems, fixtures, and equipment for steam, hot water, heating, cooling, lubricating, and industrial processing ...

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Welder Helper information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do welder helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder helper in Virginia is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Welder Helper vs Welder?

AspectWelder HelperWelder
CertificationsNone typically required; some may have OSHA or safety trainingOften requires AWS or other welding certifications
Work EnvironmentAssist in fabrication shops, construction sites, industrial settingsPerform welding in similar environments, often working independently or with a team
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with setup, hold materials, clean welds, support weldersPerform actual welding, inspect welds, ensure quality standards

The main difference between a Welder Helper and a Welder is that the helper assists with supporting tasks and preparation, while the welder performs the actual welding work. Both roles often work in similar environments and may require safety training, but welders typically need specific certifications and skills to execute welding tasks independently.

How much do welder helpers make?

Welder helpers typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, with the median around $15 per hour. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the work, and may increase with certifications or specialized skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welder helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Welder Helper, you need basic knowledge of welding processes, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with welding tools, safety equipment, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications are typically required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to follow instructions help set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient support for welders and contribute to high-quality workmanship on job sites.

What does a welder helper do?

A welder helper, also known as a welder assistant, provides support to the welder during active work on a project. The welder helper performs duties that do not require as much skill as a welder, such as handing materials to the welder, cleaning the work area, and moving equipment. A welder helper is a vital part of the welding process. They are responsible for finishing the weld by grinding or brushing the area to remove any excess metal or impurities, looking out for the safety of the welder, and identifying any dangers or flaws in the work.

What is a welder helper?

Welder Helpers are support workers who assist welders by preparing materials, setting up equipment, and ensuring the work area is safe and organized. They may transport materials, clean tools, hold parts in place, and perform basic tasks under supervision. Their role is essential for maintaining workflow efficiency and safety on welding projects. Welder Helpers often gain hands-on experience and may advance to more skilled welding positions over time.

What are some common challenges faced by welder helpers on the job, and how can they be managed?

Welder Helpers often encounter challenges such as working in physically demanding environments, exposure to high temperatures, and assisting welders in confined or awkward spaces. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to ensure safety and efficiency when handling heavy materials and tools. To manage these challenges, it's important to consistently follow safety protocols, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and maintain clear communication with welders and other team members throughout each project.
More about Welder Helper jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Welder jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Welder jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Welder Helper jobs in Virginia? For Welder Helper jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Welder Helper jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Welder Helper jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Welder Helper jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Welder Helper job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Welder Helper jobs in VA? For Welder Helper jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Welder Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welder Helper job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,570 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Welder Helper

RailWorks

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job ID: 19675 

Benefits Offering

RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives. We offer comprehensive benefits packages to eligible employees, including competitive pay, medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and additional performance incentives. 

Compensation

Pay range: $18-20/hour, depending on experience

Position Summary

The Thermite Welder Helper is responsible for helping and assisting the Thermite Welder to repair railroad tracks in heavy construction environments. 

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties
  • Experienced in Railtech Boutet, Inc.,Orgo-Thermit, Inc.Thermite Welding Processes 
  • Experienced in the use of Oxygen/Propane cutting and preheating processes 
  • Experienced in general railroad track work; such as; rail cutting, rail measuring, rail removal, rail replacement, switch configuration, track construction and restoration. 
  • Basic track work duties; spiking, anchoring and surfacing 
  • Detects faulty operation of equipment or defective materials and notifies supervisors. 
  • Operates equipment per safety policies, rules and regulations. 
Required Skills and Qualifications
  • A minimum of 2 years of Thermite Welding experience in a heavy railroad industrial environment. 
  • Thorough knowledge of the Thermite Welding process and procedures. 
  • Certified by Contractor Orientation, ERail Safe and Railway Maintenance Machine Operation 
  • Experienced in reporting daily activities to Thermite Welder.
  • Experienced in communicating with Thermite Welder regarding job completion of task at hand. 
  • Ability to assist Thermite Welder in a problem and help with the best and most cost-effective means for repair. 
  • Ability to understand and follow safety policies, rules and regulations. 
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Works outdoors at railroad construction sites. 
  • Frequently works in flat, vertical, or overhead positions. 
  • Frequently stands, walks, climbs, balances, stoops, and crouches. 
  • Uses hands to operate equipment and tools. 
  • Performs heavy physical labor; may lift/carry and push/pull objects weighing up to 75 pounds. 
  • Exposed to harsh weather conditions including extremely hot and extremely cold weather. 
  • Exposed to loud noise, dust and fumes. 
  • Must wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection as required by the company. 
  •  
Company Overview

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned. 

RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.

RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.

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