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Welding Lab Technician Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

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$9

$23

$42

How much do welding lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding lab technician in Rio Rancho, NM is $23.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 40 too old to start welding?

Welding Lab Technicians can start at any age, including 40, as long as they have the necessary skills, certifications, and physical ability. Many employers value experience and reliability, and training programs are available for adults new to welding. Age is generally not a barrier to entering the welding profession if the individual is committed to learning and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Welding Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Welding Lab Technician, you need hands-on welding expertise, knowledge of metallurgy, and typically a technical diploma or certification in welding technology. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, and testing systems such as non-destructive testing (NDT) tools is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding technicians apart. These skills ensure accurate testing, safe operation, and reliable support for welding processes and quality assurance in laboratory settings.

Can you make $100,000 as a welder?

Welding lab technicians typically do not earn $100,000 annually; most salaries range from $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, certifications, and location. Advanced welders with specialized skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries may reach higher salaries, but $100,000 is uncommon for this role. Gaining experience, certifications, and working in high-paying sectors can improve earning potential.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles often include specialized positions such as industrial or research lab technicians, especially those with advanced certifications or experience in fields like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or materials testing. Welding lab technicians with advanced skills in non-destructive testing or working in high-demand industries can also command higher salaries, particularly if they hold certifications like AWS or ASNT and work in specialized environments.

Can you make 300k as a welder?

Welding lab technicians typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are uncommon in this role. Advanced welders with specialized skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries or supervisory positions may reach higher earnings, but generally, salaries are below that level. Factors like location, industry, and certifications influence earning potential.

What are some common challenges faced by Welding Lab Technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Welding Lab Technicians often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety standards, keeping up with rapidly changing technology, and ensuring the accuracy of test results. Staying current with safety protocols and regularly attending safety training can help mitigate risks. Additionally, engaging in continuous learning—such as familiarizing oneself with new welding techniques and equipment—can address technological changes. Collaborating closely with engineers and other technicians is also essential for troubleshooting equipment issues and ensuring the integrity of lab results.

What is the difference between Welding Lab Technician vs Welding Inspector?

AspectWelding Lab TechnicianWelding Inspector
CertificationsWelding certifications, such as AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or equivalentTypically holds CWI or equivalent certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or testing facility, conducting weld tests and quality checksOn-site inspections of welds in manufacturing or construction settings
Job FocusPerforming weld tests, preparing samples, and ensuring testing proceduresInspecting welds for quality, compliance, and safety standards

Both roles require welding-related certifications and involve quality assurance, but Welding Lab Technicians focus on testing and analysis in labs, while Welding Inspectors perform on-site evaluations of weld quality.

What does a Welding Lab Technician do?

A Welding Lab Technician is responsible for supporting welding operations in a laboratory or industrial setting by preparing materials, operating welding equipment, conducting tests, and ensuring safety standards are met. They assist engineers and welders in experimentation, quality control, and analysis of welds. Their role often includes setting up lab equipment, maintaining records, and performing inspections to ensure the integrity of welds. Welding Lab Technicians play a crucial part in developing and improving welding processes and procedures.
What job categories do people searching Welding Lab Technician jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Welding Lab Technician jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Welding Lab Technician jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Welding Lab Technician job openings:
Welding Lab Technician jobs near you
Welding Shop Lab Technician

Welding Shop Lab Technician

University of New Mexico

Los Lunas, NM • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 538 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Intermediate Level
Requisition ID
req36661
Working Title
Welding Shop Lab Technician
Pay
$15.00 Hourly
Campus
Valencia
Department
Valencia Branch
Employment Type
Student Employment
Student Type
Work-Study
Status
Non-Exempt
Background Check Required
For Best Consideration Date
6/19/2026
Position Summary
Position Description:
Looking for a hands-on, on-campusjob where you can build practical skills and support students in a technicallearning environment? Join our Welding Shop team as a Welding Shop LabTechnician.
As a Welding Shop Lab Tech, youwill assist with daily lab operations, including shop setup, cleanup,organization, and lab turnover between classes. This position helps ensure thewelding lab remains clean, safe, organized, and ready for student use. Theideal candidate is reliable, detail-oriented, safety-minded, and comfortableworking in a shop environment. An OASH 10 card is required (training will beprovided at no cost if needed).
What You'll Do:
• Assist with lab setup, breakdown, and turnoverbetween class sessions
• Clean and organize welding stations, workareas, tools, materials, and equipment
• Help maintain a safe, clean, and organizedshop environment
• Prepare materials for student weldingassignments, including cutting coupons
• Operate basic shop equipment, including ashear, and use basic hand and power tools safely
• Assist with inventory checks, restockingmaterials, and submitting supply or equipment order needs to the supervisor
• Follow shop safety procedures and reportdamaged tools, equipment issues, or safety concerns
• Support instructors with daily lab operations,demonstrations, and end-of-day cleanup
Minimum Qualifications
Equivalencies not found for this position
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications:
• Must have work-study award
• Reliable, punctual, and responsible
• Comfortable working in a welding shop ortechnical lab environment
• Strong attention to safety and cleanliness
• Able to follow directions and workindependently
• Good communication skills
• Willingness to learn basic shop procedures
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs
• Previous welding, shop, or lab experience is a plus.
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
Applicant must go to Financial Aid to check if they have a Work Study Award. Please bring Schedule to interview.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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