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Welding Apprentice Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Welder

Clinton, IL

$25 - $30.36/hr

Position or tighten braces, jacks, clamps, ropes, bolt straps, or bolt parts in positions for welding or riveting * Use transit to locate reference points and erect ladders and scaffolding to fit ...

Arcosa Lightweight

Welder

Clinton, IL · On-site

$25 - $30.36/hr

Position or tighten braces, jacks, clamps, ropes, bolt straps, or bolt parts in positions for welding or riveting * Use transit to locate reference points and erect ladders and scaffolding to fit ...

Mason Manufacturing LLC

Experienced Welder

Decatur, IL

$23 - $29/hr

Welding to conform to customer requirements, including customer specifications, applicable code, and other accepted industry standards * Efficient at Flux-Core welding with an emphasis on back ...

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All JobsWelding Apprentice JobsWelding Apprentice Jobs in Decatur, IL

Welding Apprentice information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do welding apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding apprentice in Decatur, IL is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do welding apprentices get paid?

Welding apprentices typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the stage of their apprenticeship. As they gain skills and certifications, their pay generally increases, and some programs offer additional benefits or stipends for tools and training.

What is the difference between Welding Apprentice vs Welding Trainee?

AspectWelding ApprenticeWelding Trainee
CredentialsOften requires high school diploma; may need basic certificationsTypically no formal credentials required; on-the-job learning
Work EnvironmentOn-site in manufacturing, construction, or fabrication shopsSimilar work environments, often in training programs
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, manufacturing, shipbuildingUsed interchangeably in training contexts, less formal

Welding Apprentice and Welding Trainee are often used interchangeably, but apprentices usually have more structured training and certifications. Both roles involve hands-on learning in similar work environments, preparing individuals for a career in welding.

How do I start a welding apprenticeship?

To start a welding apprenticeship, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and a valid driver's license. Apply to apprenticeship programs through trade schools, unions, or employers, and be prepared to learn safety protocols, welding techniques, and use of tools like arc welders and grinders. Some programs require passing a skills assessment or physical exam before acceptance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welding apprentice?

To thrive as a Welding Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of welding techniques, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with welding equipment, personal protective gear, and industry-standard certifications like OSHA 10 can be important. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and strong teamwork skills help apprentices excel in challenging environments. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safety, produce quality work, and successfully progress in the skilled trades.

How much does a welding apprentice get?

A welding apprentice typically earns between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training while working towards certifications and developing skills with welding tools and safety protocols.

How do I get into welding apprenticeship with no experience?

To start a welding apprenticeship with no experience, you should research local apprenticeship programs or technical schools that offer welding courses, and obtain basic certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining foundational skills in metalworking and demonstrating a strong work ethic can improve your chances of acceptance into an apprenticeship, which typically involves on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction.

What are the tasks and responsibilities of a welding apprentice?

As a Welding Apprentice, you will typically begin by assisting experienced welders, preparing materials, and maintaining equipment to ensure a safe and efficient work environment. You'll gradually take on more complex welding tasks, such as performing basic welds, reading blueprints, and adhering to safety protocols. Throughout your apprenticeship, you'll also participate in classroom instruction and hands-on training to learn different welding techniques and standards. This role often involves working closely with a team, including supervisors and other apprentices, and offers the chance to build foundational skills for a long-term welding career.
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Welding Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welding Apprentice job openings in Decatur, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,507 per year, or $19 per hour.

SENIOR WELDING TECHNICIAN

Align Production Systems

Decatur, IL • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description


ALIGN MANUFACTURING

Senior Fabricator — Job Description

Decatur, IL | Full Time | Direct Hire


About Align Manufacturing

Align Manufacturing is a custom industrial equipment builder located in Decatur, Illinois. We build complex machines and structural assemblies for some of the most recognized names in industry. Our work demands fabricators who can think, adapt, and take ownership of their craft from the first tack to the final inspection. We are growing and we are looking for the right person to grow with us.


What We Are Looking For

This is not an entry-level position and it is not for someone looking to coast. We are looking for a Senior Fabricator who brings real structural fit up experience, a high standard for quality, and the kind of energy and attitude that makes the people around them better. If you take pride in your work, hold yourself to a high standard, and want to be part of a team that is building something worth being proud of — we want to talk.


THE RIGHT FIT

High energy. Positive mindset. Someone who walks into a work cell, owns it, and leaves it better than they found it.


What You Will Do

  • Fabricate and weld structural steel assemblies for custom industrial equipment from engineered prints and detailed drawings.
  • Perform precise fit up on complex assemblies — interpreting multi-view prints, weld symbols, and GD&T callouts with accuracy and confidence.
  • Work from minimal documentation when required, using fabrication experience and mechanical judgment to produce quality work.
  • Execute primary MIG welding with occasional stick welding as required by the job.
  • Identify fit up issues, dimensional discrepancies, and design concerns early and communicate them to the lead or engineer before they become production problems.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work cell throughout the shift.
  • Participate in quality sign-offs, in-process inspections, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Support and mentor less experienced fabricators when the opportunity presents itself.


What You Bring

  • Seven or more years of hands-on structural fabrication experience in a manufacturing environment. Experience over years — if you can do the work we want to see it.
  • Demonstrated fit up experience on complex, custom, or structural assemblies. This is non-negotiable.
  • Strong MIG welding proficiency. Stick welding capability is a plus.
  • Ability to read and interpret complex engineering prints including weld symbols and GD&T callouts.
  • Experience working from minimal documentation and making sound fabrication decisions independently.
  • High energy, positive attitude, and a genuine investment in the quality of the work you produce.
  • Strong attention to detail and a personal standard that does not require someone standing over your shoulder.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, custom build environment where priorities shift and problem solving is a daily expectation.


What Sets You Apart

  • AWS or equivalent weld certification.
  • Experience in heavy structural fabrication — plate steel, structural shapes, and weldment assemblies.
  • Exposure to GD&T on production prints.
  • A track record of identifying and preventing quality issues before they escalate.
  • The kind of person who brings energy to the floor and raises the standard for everyone around them.