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Welding Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sub Arc Machine Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Certified Sub Arc Machine Operator performs job functions required and/or assigned in the ... Set and operate welding machine for applicable welding processes (SAW, automatic, etc.) * Perform ...

Sub Arc Machine Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Certified Sub Arc Machine Operator performs job functions required and/or assigned in the ... Set and operate welding machine for applicable welding processes (SAW, automatic, etc.) * Perform ...

Sub Arc Machine Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Certified Sub Arc Machine Operator performs job functions required and/or assigned in the ... Set and operate welding machine for applicable welding processes (SAW, automatic, etc.) * Perform ...

Sub Arc Machine Operator

Harvey, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Certified Sub Arc Machine Operator performs job functions required and/or assigned in the ... Set and operate welding machine for applicable welding processes (SAW, automatic, etc.) * Perform ...

Sub Arc Machine Operator

Harvey, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Certified Sub Arc Machine Operator performs job functions required and/or assigned in the ... Set and operate welding machine for applicable welding processes (SAW, automatic, etc.) * Perform ...

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Welder Machine Operator

Addison, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

This role is responsible for MIG welding, mesh welding, and resistance welding, operating production machinery, and ensuring all parts meet quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate ...

By 2000, Rochester 100 • began research into ultrasonic polypropylene welding machines and ... Description Machine Operators are responsible for running production machines that produce our ...

Machine Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Welding; Machining; Machine Operators*** We partner with 100's of companies within Northeast, WI, visit our website for a full list of available positions: www.ustechforce.com. No Charge ...

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Machine Operator Work Location: Parsons, KS 67357 Payrate: $16.60/hr Duration: 3+ Months role with ... Operates assigned machine(s), including resistance welding machines, brake presses, and mechanical ...

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Machine Operator

Lincoln, RI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

* Machine Operator - First shift Monday through Friday Get to know us: ARCH Cutting Tools - Rhode ... Sets up and operates machines and equipment other than machine tools such as welding machines and ...

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Welding Machine Operator information

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$5

$15

$22

How much do welding machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding machine operator in the United States is $15.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $15.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do welders make $100 an hour?

Welders, including welding machine operators, typically earn less than $100 an hour, with average wages ranging from $15 to $30 per hour depending on experience, location, and industry. Highly skilled or specialized welders working in certain high-demand sectors or with advanced certifications may approach or exceed this rate, but it is uncommon for most to regularly earn $100 an hour.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding machine operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn around $50 an hour, especially in specialized fields such as industrial fabrication, underwater welding, or working in high-demand industries like oil and gas. Salaries vary based on location, certification level, and the complexity of the work performed.

What is the highest paid welding job?

The highest paid welding jobs typically involve specialized skills such as underwater welding, aerospace welding, or working in the oil and gas industry, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles usually require advanced certifications, safety training, and experience in challenging environments. Skilled welders in these fields are compensated for their expertise and the risks involved.

What does a Welding Machine Operator do?

A Welding Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining welding machines used to join metal parts together. They read blueprints or work orders, adjust machine settings, monitor the welding process, and inspect finished products for quality. Operators must ensure safety protocols are followed and may also perform basic machine maintenance or troubleshooting. This role is essential in manufacturing, construction, and repair industries where precise metalwork is required.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Welding machine operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with higher salaries possible for those with specialized skills, certifications, or experience in high-demand industries like oil and gas or aerospace. Earning $300,000 is uncommon and usually requires advanced expertise, supervisory roles, or working in high-paying sectors over many years.

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

To thrive as a Welding Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with welding machines, tools like calipers and micrometers, and certifications such as AWS Certified Welder are typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills make an operator stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing precise welds, ensuring workplace safety, and maintaining high-quality standards in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Welding Machine Operator vs Welder?

AspectWelding Machine OperatorWelder
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, possibly AWS certificationRequires welding certifications like AWS Certified Welder
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery in manufacturing or fabrication settingsPerforms manual welding in various settings, including construction and repair
Job ResponsibilitiesSets up and operates welding machines, monitors welding processPerforms manual welding tasks, joins metal parts

While both roles involve working with metal and welding equipment, Welding Machine Operators focus on operating and monitoring welding machinery, whereas Welders perform manual welding tasks. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in the level of manual skill and machine operation focus.

What are some common challenges faced by Welding Machine Operators on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Welding Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent weld quality, managing equipment malfunctions, and working in environments with high temperatures or confined spaces. These challenges can be addressed through regular equipment maintenance, strict adherence to safety protocols, and continuous training to stay updated on new welding techniques and technologies. Additionally, effective communication with supervisors and team members helps ensure that any issues are quickly identified and resolved, contributing to a safer and more productive work environment.
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What are popular job titles related to Welding Machine Operator jobs? For Welding Machine Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sub Arc Machine Operator

Sub Arc Machine Operator

Gulf Island

Houma, LA • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description:

Main Purpose:

Certified Sub Arc Machine Operator performs job functions required and/or assigned in the fabrication of iron as steel structures in accordance with the contract/job specifications and quality assurance requirements/fitting procedures and established ISO/QC program standards.


Essential Functions:

  • Set and operate welding machine for applicable welding processes (SAW, automatic, etc.)
  • Perform welding processes assigned for either structural, pipe for automatic welding projects
  • Pass required welding test in accordance with AWS D1.1 latest edition
  • Maintain quality of welding that can pass NDT testing procedures
  • Perform welding assignments in a safe and efficient manner, practicing safety at all times
  • Operate applicable hand tools (chipping hammers, grinders, etc.)
  • Operate high reaches/man lifts as required when having to perform welding assignments above ground level
  • Follow written and/or verbal instructions with little or no supervision
  • Perform other duties assigned by supervisor

Benefits Offered:

  • Earned Wage Access
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Safety Awards
  • Company Store
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


Requirements:


Physical Requirements:

  • Standing, sitting, walking, stooping, kneeling, climbing, feeling, talking, hearing and seeing
  • Turning, twisting, bending, and balancing
  • Pushing, pulling and reaching
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally 50-75 pounds

Job Requirements:

  • Must be a Certified sub Arc Machine Operator
  • Must be able to successfully demonstrate the ability to pass a written and practical welding test
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment physical and drug screen
  • Must be able to pass a background check
  • Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing

Desirable Experience/Training:

  • Highschool diploma or GED
  • Will train a Certified Welder on Sub Arc

Tools & equipment Used:

Welders must have knowledge of and use welding machines, man lifts, chipping & grinding equipment, cutting torches, welding leads, welding whips, and welding guns. Also, all applicable safety equipment used to perform their everyday welding duties (welding shields, goggles, hard hats, etc.) should be able to read and write.


Environmental Conditions:

80 to 90% of the work activities are performed outdoors in a shop. Individuals will be required to work in changes of temperature, hot, cold, humid, wet, and dry conditions, dust, mud, etc.



Gulf Island will not sponsor applications for work visas. Additionally, applicants for employment with Gulf Island must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Accordingly, Gulf Island will not consider applications from candidates who require the company to sponsor a work visa and who are not currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.


Gulf island is not accepting unsolicited candidates from search firms for posted employment opportunities. Please no phone calls or emails. All resumes submitted by search firms to Gulf Island employees via email, the internet, or any other form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place for the position will be deemed the sole property of Gulf Island. No recruiting placement fee will be paid in the event Gulf Island hires the candidate due to the referral or through other means.