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Welder Helper 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 · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

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

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

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 ...

Food 4 Less

POS Helper

Merced, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $21.50/hr

The Point of Sale (POS) Helper maintains price integrity throughout the store and maintains the appearance and presentation of store signage and product placement to maximize the customer shopping ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Diesel Mechanic

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Previous Maintenance and Welding experience working on Industrial or heavy construction equipment ... We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals, as a key part of our ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Diesel Mechanic

Los Banos, CA

$50 - $60/hr

Previous Maintenance and Welding experience working on Industrial or heavy construction equipment ... We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals, as a key part of our ...

Hilmar Cheese Company

Maintenance Mechanic

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $34.25/hr

Use basic power tools, welding tools, forklift, articulating booms, etc. to complete assigned ... Help coach and train teammates and participate in on the job, buddy training. * Place high priority ...

OFI

Maintenance Mechanic

Firebaugh, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

With our fresh thinking, we help our customers unleash the sensory and functional attributes of ... Also, there may be fabrication, welding, and plumbing (including air and hydraulics). Perform ...

SIG Combibloc

Maintenance Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$36.75/hr

Performs work in the mechanic skilled area such as fabrication, assembly, welding, burning, cutting ... help the organization achieve its objectives. If you actively seek new ways to grow and be ...

OFI

Maintenance Mechanic Assistant

Hughson, CA · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

With our fresh thinking, we help our customers unleash the sensory and functional attributes of ... welding, or related program preferred. * Previous maintenance, manufacturing, agricultural ...

Hilmar Cheese Company

Facilities Mechanic

Hilmar, CA · On-site

Basic fabrication skills, e.g., welding, shop tools, print reading. * Create and Close Work Orders ... Help coach and train teammates and participate in on the job, buddy training. * Place high priority ...

Albertsons

Maintenance Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

Your expertise and dedication will be essential in helping us maintain the high standards of ... boilers, fabrication, welding, gearbox, pumps, sprockets, chains, pullies, and conveyors

Albertsons

Maintenance Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

Your expertise and dedication will be essential in helping us maintain the high standards of ... boilers, fabrication, welding, gearbox, pumps, sprockets, chains, pullies, and conveyors

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All JobsWelder Helper JobsWelder Helper Jobs in Merced, CA

Welder Helper information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do welder helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder helper in Merced, CA is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 to $17 per hour. Their pay can vary based on experience, location, and whether they work full-time or part-time, often with opportunities to increase earnings through certifications and skill development.
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Welder Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welder Helper job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,953 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Welder

Cal Cat Industries, LLC

Hughson, CA • On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 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.