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Welder Helper Jobs in Rattan, OK (NOW HIRING)

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Hugo, OK · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

We seek candidates with rail industry or other heavy industrial experience, including welding or ... Employees are urged to seek help when needed with heavier tasks and to use lifting equipment when ...

We seek candidates with rail industry or other heavy industrial experience, including welding or ... Employees are urged to seek help when needed with heavier tasks and to use lifting equipment when ...

Welder Helper information

See Rattan, OK salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do welder helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for welder helper in Rattan, OK is $14.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $15.91 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.

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 are Welder Helpers?

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.
What cities near Rattan, OK are hiring for Welder Helper jobs? Cities near Rattan, OK with the most Welder Helper job openings:
Infographic showing various Welder Helper job openings in Rattan, OK as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,533 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Railcar Repair Technician 1

APP RAILCAR GROUP

Hugo, OK • On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Summary Description
Guardian Rail is proud to operate one of the country's leading freight rail services and transportation companies with a large network of freight and tank car repair facilities, a nationwide network of running repair agents, and a rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites.
We currently have Repair Technician positions available in the Hugo area. Incumbents will use mechanical skills to safely inspect and repair railcars to customer and industry specifications. We seek candidates with rail industry or other heavy industrial experience, including welding or mechanical assembly.
We offer a sign on/retention bonus of $1,500, payable over the first 12 months of employment and a competitive pay scale based on relevant skills and experience.
Responsible for the repair of various types of railcars and/or tank cars. Incumbents will use mechanical skills to safely inspect and repair railcars to industry and customer specifications. Candidates must have a safety and quality mindset and enjoy hands-on work in year-round outdoor conditions.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform railcar repairs in compliance with FRA and AAR interchange rules
  • Conduct pre and post inspection of all assigned railcars
  • Comply fully with all safety protocols including in house and OSHA rules, regulations and procedures
  • Comply fully with the Company's quality program by conforming to in-house processes and required AAR and FRA rules and regulations
  • Keep work area in a clean and orderly manner to comply with Guardian Rail, OSHA, and environmental rules and regulations
  • Follow written and verbal directions
  • Work effectively in a team environment
  • Possess a thorough understanding of railcar, components, and/or shop work order
  • Understand inventory control
  • Assist in disassembly of damaged railcars
  • Perform repairs such as, but not limited to, basic mechanics, grinding, and touch-up painting and decaling on various types of railcars or tank cars as required
  • Set up and operate various hand and power tools such as, but not limited to, air arc, plasma cutting, Huck and welding machines and processes, and oxyfuel operation in heating and cutting processes
  • Perform interior railcar cleaning
  • Complete documented training to set up and operate or drive equipment such as, but not limited to: forklift, man-lift, crane, backhoe, skid loader, hoist, or hydraulic boom
  • Meet the requirements of AWS D15.1 for freight cars utilizing GMAW (Hardwire), FCAW (Flux Core), and/or SMAW (Stick) welding on carbon steel as well as our internal welding technology training and examination

#Indeed123
Qualifications
  • High-school diploma or general education degree (GED) required
  • Prior experience as a Carman or Railcar Repair Technician highly desirable
  • Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals and blueprints
  • Must possess basic mechanical knowledge and experience with hand & power tools, including heavier air and electric powered tools and cutting torches
  • Must enjoy outdoor, physical, hands on work with frequent standing, climbing, stooping, kneeling, pushing, pulling and lifting required
  • Certified E7018 welder preferred
  • Must be able to write routine reports and correspondence and speak and communicate effectively
  • Must possess basic math skills and work and understand simple mathematical concepts
  • Must possess reasoning ability to solve practical problems
  • Must be able to fully pass the fitness-for-duty examination, pre-employment physical, and pre-employment and random drug and alcohol screenings

Physical Demands & Work Environment
Our physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, dry/arid, and dusty conditions. The environment requires working in close proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, in high and low precarious places, as well as in confined spaces.
The work type is best described as heavy, hands-on mechanical work. Work is very physical, and without proper work planning can result in out-of-position pushing, pulling, and lifting. Proper body mechanics, positioning, and lifting techniques can be very important. Employees are urged to seek help when needed with heavier tasks and to use lifting equipment when and where necessary. The positioning of the work being performed can change very frequently.
Various heavier air and electric-powered tools such as car jacks, impact wrenches, and grinders are used daily. Work also requires frequent use of hand wrenches, hammers, chisels, socket wrenches, and ladders. Cutting torches are also used with welding equipment upon qualification of the employee.
  • Climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, smelling, and visual acuity, with color and depth perception
  • Ability to work in a confined space
  • Required to use personal protective equipment as environmental conditions dictate