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Welding Apprentice 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

$23 - $25.75/hr

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment. * Knows and understands all safety rules and ...

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment. * Knows and understands all safety rules and ...

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment. * Knows and understands all safety rules and ...

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All JobsWelding Apprentice JobsWelding Apprentice Jobs in Merced, CA

Welding Apprentice information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

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$28

How much do welding apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding apprentice in Merced, CA is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

Can you get an apprenticeship in welding?

Yes, aspiring welders can pursue apprenticeships through trade schools, unions, or employers that offer on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction. Welding apprenticeships typically last 3 to 4 years and often require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with basic skills in math and reading. Completing an apprenticeship provides hands-on experience with tools, safety procedures, and welding techniques essential for a welding career.

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 and classroom instruction.

What do welding apprentices get paid?

Welding apprentices typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the apprenticeship program. As they gain skills and certifications, their pay often increases, and some programs offer additional benefits such as training in welding techniques and safety procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Merced, CA?

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Welding Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welding Apprentice job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,013 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Welder

Cal Cat Industries, LLC

Hughson, CA • On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 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.