Discover factory welding jobs: salary info, daily tasks, skills, safety tips, and how to launch your career in manufacturing.
Factory welding jobs represent one of the strongest career paths in American manufacturing today. Whether you're just starting out or looking to transition from field work, these positions offer steady paychecks, benefits, and room to grow.
Key Facts About Factory Welding Jobs:• 43,400 new welding jobs added annually through 2029 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)• Average salary: $42,490 per year ($20.43/hour)• Starting wages: $18-$25/hour with shift premiums up to 20%• Top hiring industries: Aerospace, automotive, HVAC, specialty vehicles• Job locations: Concentrated in Midwest and Gulf Coast manufacturing hubs• Common processes: MIG, TIG, Flux-Core welding in climate-controlled facilities
Factory welding differs from construction or pipeline work in several important ways. You'll work in clean, climate-controlled environments with consistent schedules rather than dealing with weather delays or job site moves. The focus shifts from custom fabrication to high-volume production using standardized procedures.
These positions often come with comprehensive benefits packages including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition reimbursement, and even hunting season PTO at some companies. Many employers are actively recruiting welders and offering on-the-job training for entry-level candidates.
I'm William "Stick" Mank, a second-generation welder with over 20 years in the oil and gas industry who's helped countless welders transition into stable factory welding jobs. Through my experience building Tentacle Tools and working with manufacturers nationwide, I've seen how these positions can provide the career stability that field welding often lacks.
Key terms for factory welding jobs:- off shore welder- welding career
When you think about factory welding jobs, picture yourself working in a clean, climate-controlled environment where you're building the products that keep America moving. Unlike field welding where you're dealing with weather and constantly changing job sites, factory welding gives you the stability of working indoors with predictable schedules and standardized procedures.
Your daily routine revolves around assembly line production where you're part of a team creating everything from aircraft components to HVAC systems. Most facilities run shift work – typically first, second, and sometimes third shifts – which means you can often find a schedule that fits your life. Many welders actually prefer second shift because it pays a premium and lets them handle family responsibilities during the day.
The big industries hiring for factory welding jobs include aerospace, automotive, defense contractors, and specialty vehicle manufacturers. These facilities cluster in manufacturing hubs throughout the Midwest and Gulf Coast where companies have built state-of-the-art production facilities. According to Scientific research on welder demand, these regions continue showing strong growth in manufacturing welding positions.
You'll primarily work with MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), and Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW) processes, along with some Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) for specific applications. The beauty of factory work is that you become really proficient with these core processes rather than constantly switching between different techniques.
Your shift starts with machine setup and inspection. You'll configure your welding equipment with the correct wire, gas, and settings according to the Welding Procedure Specifications. This means checking tips, liners, and fittings to make sure everything's running smoothly before you strike your first arc.
Blueprint reading becomes second nature in factory work. You'll interpret weld symbols, dimensions, and assembly instructions before starting each job. The nice thing about factory welding is that once you learn the prints for your production line, the work becomes more predictable than constantly figuring out new field drawings.
Quality inspection happens throughout your day – you'll examine your welds for defects like cracks, burn-through, or inadequate penetration. The good news is you catch and fix issues immediately rather than having an inspector come back weeks later with problems.
Many facilities use Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), which means you're responsible for routine equipment maintenance and keeping your work area organized. Material handling involves moving components up to 40 pounds and positioning parts for welding. You'll use overhead cranes for heavier assemblies, and the work requires standing for extended periods while welding in vertical, horizontal, and overhead positions.
Aerospace manufacturing offers some of the most specialized and well-paying factory welding jobs. You'll commonly use Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) for precision work on aircraft and spacecraft components. These positions often involve working with exotic materials like titanium and require strict adherence to quality standards – but the pay reflects that expertise.
HVAC manufacturing provides steady year-round employment. Companies maintain climate-controlled facilities with advanced safety systems, and you'll be welding components for the air conditioning and heating systems that keep buildings comfortable across America.
Specialty vehicle manufacturing, including ambulance and fire truck production, requires welding aluminum in all positions. These companies often hire veterans and offer excellent benefits packages along with the satisfaction of building vehicles that save lives.
Shipbuilding along the Gulf Coast offers another strong market for factory welders, particularly for defense contracts that provide long-term job security.
The geographic hotspots include Texas, Ohio, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. Texas leads in petrochemical and energy-related manufacturing, while Ohio and the Midwest concentrate on automotive and heavy equipment production. The Southeast, particularly South Carolina, has seen significant growth in aerospace and automotive manufacturing welding positions.
Getting into factory welding jobs doesn't require a four-year degree, but you do need the right combination of training and skills. Most employers look for about 24 months of combined education and experience - and this can come from trade school, community college, apprenticeships, or even military training.
The good news? Many companies are willing to train the right person. They'd rather hire someone with solid fundamentals and a strong work ethic than wait for the "perfect" candidate who might never show up.
Blueprint literacy is absolutely essential. You'll spend part of every day reading technical drawings, interpreting weld symbols, and understanding geometric tolerances. Basic shop math matters too - measuring accurately, calculating angles, and understanding material properties. Don't worry if math wasn't your strongest subject in school; welding math is practical stuff you'll use every day.
Communication skills are more important than you might think. You'll work closely with supervisors, quality inspectors, and team members. Being able to ask questions when you're unsure and clearly explain any issues you encounter keeps production running smoothly.
When it comes to certifications, AWS D1.1 structural welding is the gold standard across manufacturing industries. This certification proves you can produce quality welds that meet strict structural standards. For defense contractors working on Navy platforms, NAVSEA certification may be required - these jobs often pay premium wages to match the higher standards.
OSHA-10 safety training is becoming standard at most manufacturing facilities. Some companies will provide this training, but having it already shows you take safety seriously. In factory environments where multiple people work in close proximity, safety knowledge protects everyone on the team.
MIG/GMAW welding dominates most factory welding jobs because it's fast, versatile, and produces clean results. You'll work with everything from mild steel to aluminum, often using semi-automatic setups that boost productivity while maintaining quality. The consistent power supply and controlled environment make MIG welding in factories much more predictable than field work.
TIG/GTAW welding becomes crucial for precision work, especially in aerospace manufacturing. This process demands steady hands and excellent technique, particularly when working with thin materials or exotic alloys like titanium and invar steel. TIG welders often command higher wages because of the skill level required.
Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW) is your go-to process in heavy manufacturing where you need high deposition rates. It works exceptionally well for thicker materials and provides excellent penetration - perfect for building robust components that need to last.
Spot welding and robotic welding systems are increasingly common, especially in automotive and appliance manufacturing. Understanding how to program and maintain robotic welding arms can significantly boost your career prospects and earning potential. Many experienced welders transition into robotic programming roles that offer better pay and less physical demands.
Vocational programs at technical colleges offer the fastest path into factory welding - typically 6-18 month certificate programs that cover all the fundamentals. These programs often use the same equipment you'll find in manufacturing facilities, so you'll hit the ground running.
Community colleges provide associate degree programs that combine welding skills with broader manufacturing knowledge. You'll learn quality control, advanced blueprint reading, and basic metallurgy. Many of these programs have partnerships with local manufacturers for internship opportunities that often lead to full-time offers.
On-the-job training remains available at many facilities, particularly for entry-level positions. Companies often prefer to train welders their way rather than trying to break bad habits learned elsewhere. If you have solid fundamentals and show up ready to work, many employers will invest in developing your skills.
Veteran transition programs offer excellent pathways into manufacturing welding. Military experience translates well to factory environments - the discipline, attention to detail, and ability to follow procedures are exactly what manufacturers need. Many companies actively recruit veterans and provide additional support during the transition to civilian manufacturing work.
Let's talk money – because that's probably why you're here, right? Factory welding jobs offer solid paychecks that let you actually plan for the future instead of wondering where your next paycheck is coming from.
Most entry-level factory welders start between $18-$25 per hour, depending on where you live and what you bring to the table. Once you've got some experience under your belt, you're looking at $21.57-$27.79 per hour at established manufacturers. That's real money for honest work.
Here's where it gets even better – shift premiums. Work second shift and you'll typically see a 10% bump in your hourly rate. Third shift and weekends? You could be looking at premiums up to 20%. So that $23/hour base wage becomes $25.30/hour just for working when most folks are heading home. Not bad for the same work.
Overtime opportunities are common too. Some facilities run condensed weekend schedules where you can earn full-time wages working just Friday through Sunday. Imagine having Monday through Thursday off every week while still bringing home a solid paycheck.
The job outlook through 2029 looks rock solid. We're talking about 43,400 new welding positions expected annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Manufacturing welding is especially strong as more companies bring production back to American soil where it belongs.
Gone are the days of working in hot, dirty shops. Modern factory welding jobs happen in clean, climate-controlled facilities with proper ventilation and ergonomic workstations. You'll actually want to show up to work instead of dreading it. View open welding roles to see what's available right now.
The Midwest manufacturing hubs typically pay $18-$24 per hour for factory welding jobs. While that might sound lower than coastal areas, your dollar goes a lot further when you're not paying California rent prices. States like Ohio, Wisconsin, and Indiana give you excellent bang for your buck.
Coastal regions and specialized manufacturing centers pay premium wages, especially if you're working for defense contractors or aerospace manufacturers. Having a security clearance or specialized certifications can really bump up those numbers.
Union representation makes a real difference in your paycheck. Unionized facilities generally offer higher base wages, better benefits, and clear advancement paths. It's worth considering when you're job hunting.
Health insurance is standard at most manufacturing facilities – we're talking medical, dental, and vision coverage where the company picks up a good chunk of the tab. Companies like Daikin Applied and REV Group offer benefits packages that rival any industry.
Retirement plans help you actually retire someday instead of welding until you can't hold a torch anymore. Many places offer 401(k) matching and some still have pension plans, especially in union shops.
Here's something you don't see everywhere – paid hunting season breaks. Some manufacturers actually get it that their welders want to be in the woods come November. You'll also find flexible scheduling and compressed work weeks that respect your life outside the shop.
Tuition reimbursement programs let you level up your skills while keeping your day job. Some companies even have on-site training facilities, so you can learn new processes and advance your career without missing a paycheck.
Factory welding jobs prioritize safety through comprehensive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements and engineered safety systems. Auto-darkening welding helmets, fire-retardant clothing, and proper respiratory protection are standard equipment.
Ventilation systems and fume extraction equipment maintain air quality in welding areas. Modern facilities use local exhaust ventilation at each welding station, supplemented by general building ventilation to remove welding fumes and maintain comfortable working conditions.
Lock-out/tag-out procedures ensure equipment safety during maintenance and setup. Welders must understand energy isolation procedures and follow established protocols when working on or near machinery.
Ergonomic considerations address the physical demands of welding work. Adjustable work surfaces, proper lifting techniques, and job rotation help prevent repetitive stress injuries common in manufacturing environments.
Hazardous waste disposal procedures ensure proper handling of welding consumables, grinding dust, and contaminated materials. Facilities maintain designated disposal areas and follow EPA guidelines for waste management.
Spark containment and fire prevention measures include fire-resistant barriers, proper storage of flammable materials, and immediate access to fire suppression equipment. Hot work permits may be required for certain welding operations.
Machine guarding protects operators from moving parts, electrical hazards, and arc radiation. Guards must remain in place during operation, and bypassing safety systems results in immediate disciplinary action.
Preventive maintenance schedules ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently. Welders participate in daily equipment checks, reporting any anomalies or safety concerns to supervision immediately.
MIG welding guns and TIG torches require daily inspection and maintenance. Proper liner installation, contact tip condition, and gas flow verification ensure consistent weld quality and operator safety.
Welding carts organize equipment and consumables while providing mobility around the work area. Well-organized carts improve efficiency and reduce setup time between jobs.
Angle grinders for weld preparation and finishing must include proper guards and be equipped with appropriate grinding wheels for the material being processed. Regular inspection prevents wheel failure and injury.
Clamp sets and fixturing devices position work pieces accurately and safely. Proper clamping prevents part movement during welding and ensures dimensional accuracy in finished products.
Measuring tools including tape measures, squares, and gauges verify dimensions and ensure parts meet blueprint specifications. Accuracy in measurement directly impacts product quality and customer satisfaction.
The beauty of factory welding jobs lies in their clear career progression paths. Unlike some trades where advancement feels uncertain, manufacturing environments offer structured opportunities to grow your skills, responsibilities, and paycheck.
Lead welder positions represent the first major step up the ladder. You'll mentor new hires, coordinate daily work assignments, and become the go-to person when complex welding challenges arise. It's rewarding work that builds on your technical skills while developing leadership abilities.
Welding inspector roles require additional study and certification, but the investment pays off. Earning your Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credentials from AWS opens doors to quality assurance positions with significantly higher pay. You'll ensure products meet customer specifications and catch problems before they become costly mistakes.
The future belongs to robotic welding programmers. These positions combine your welding knowledge with programming skills to operate automated systems. Companies are willing to pay premium wages for welders who can bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. Job security is excellent since these skills are in high demand but short supply.
Quality assurance supervisor positions oversee entire production lines. You'll manage teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and work directly with plant management. Many QA supervisors eventually transition into plant management roles themselves.
Material specialization can dramatically boost your earning potential. Welding aluminum requires different techniques than steel. Titanium work demands precision and specialized knowledge. Defense contractors particularly value welders experienced with ballistic armor plate and exotic alloys. These specialized skills often command premium wages and exclusive job opportunities.
Your resume should tell the story of your welding journey. Highlight specific processes you've mastered - MIG, TIG, Flux-Core - and mention any materials beyond basic steel. Include safety training like OSHA-10 and any AWS certifications. Even if your experience comes from construction or repair work, those skills transfer beautifully to factory environments.
Skills tests are standard for factory welding jobs, so practice beforehand. Weld test coupons in different positions using the processes most common in your target industry. Take clear photos of your work showing good penetration, consistent beads, and clean starts and stops. These photos become part of your portfolio.
Interview preparation goes beyond just showing up. Research the company's products, safety record, and culture. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and teamwork skills. Manufacturing environments value welders who can adapt quickly and work well with others.
Your portfolio speaks louder than words. Include photos of different joint types, materials, and welding positions. Show versatility - a horizontal fillet weld on steel, vertical TIG work on aluminum, and overhead flux-core joints demonstrate well-rounded skills that employers value.
GI Bill funding makes welding training affordable for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Many community colleges and technical schools participate in VA education programs, covering tuition and providing living allowances during training.
Employer-sponsored apprenticeships offer the best of both worlds - you earn while you learn. These programs typically last 2-4 years, combining classroom instruction with hands-on training. You'll graduate with journey-level certification and guaranteed employment with the sponsoring company.
REV Group's veteran hiring initiative specifically targets military personnel for manufacturing positions. Their structured onboarding process helps veterans translate military discipline and attention to detail into manufacturing success. They hire over 200 veterans annually, proving their commitment to veteran employment.
ReadySC defense pathway programs in South Carolina provide specialized training for defense manufacturing welding positions. These programs often include security clearance processing and facility-specific training, preparing you for high-paying defense contractor positions.
Factory welding jobs will definitely test your physical endurance. You'll spend most of your 8-12 hour shifts on your feet with only scheduled breaks. The work isn't just standing around though – you'll regularly lift materials weighing up to 40 pounds and maneuver them into position for welding.
The real challenge comes from working in different positions throughout the day. One minute you're welding at a comfortable table height, the next you're reaching overhead or crouched down for a horizontal weld. Your neck, shoulders, and back will feel it at first, but most welders adapt within a few weeks.
Hand-eye coordination becomes second nature after some practice, but the repetitive motions can be tiring initially. Most facilities classify welding work as "heavy physical activity" – not to scare you off, but so you know what you're signing up for. The good news? You'll be in great shape after a few months on the job.
MIG welding (GMAW) rules the factory floor for good reason. It's fast, reliable, and works beautifully with the automated systems that keep production lines humming. You can lay down consistent, quality welds quickly, which is exactly what manufacturers need when they're building hundreds or thousands of parts.
TIG welding earns its place in factory welding jobs when precision matters most. Aerospace companies rely on TIG for aircraft components where every weld must be perfect. It's slower than MIG, but the control and quality are best for critical applications.
Flux-Core welding handles the heavy lifting – literally. When you're joining thick steel plates or need high deposition rates, Flux-Core gets the job done efficiently. It's particularly common in shipbuilding and heavy equipment manufacturing where penetration and strength matter more than speed.
This is one of the smartest career moves you can make in factory welding jobs. Manufacturers actually prefer promoting experienced welders into robotic programming roles because you already understand what makes a good weld.
You'll need additional training in programming languages and automation systems, but your welding knowledge gives you a huge advantage. While a programmer might know how to make the robot move, you'll understand why certain parameters create better welds and how to troubleshoot when things go wrong.
These positions typically pay significantly more than traditional welding roles and offer excellent job security. As more factories adopt robotic welding systems, companies desperately need people who can bridge the gap between traditional welding skills and modern automation technology.
The transition usually involves company-sponsored training programs, so you're earning while you learn. It's a natural progression that combines your hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.
Factory welding jobs open doors to something special – a chance to build products that matter while earning a solid living in clean, safe environments. With 43,400 new positions opening each year and starting wages hitting $18-$25 per hour, these aren't just jobs. They're pathways to careers that let you clock out at the end of your shift and still have energy left for family time.
The beauty of factory welding lies in what it offers beyond the paycheck. Comprehensive benefits, predictable schedules, and climate-controlled workspaces mean you're not fighting weather delays or wondering where your next job site will be. Whether you're fresh out of trade school, a veteran looking for your next chapter, or a field welder ready for something more stable, manufacturing welcomes skilled hands.
At Tentacle Tools, we've always believed that American manufacturing runs on the skills and dedication of welders like you. That's why we don't just make tools – we help connect our community with the opportunities they deserve. Our job board exists because we know that having the right American-made tools is only half the equation. Finding the right opportunity to use those tools? That's where careers really begin.
Every factory welding job filled by a skilled American welder strengthens something bigger than just one company or one paycheck. It reinforces the foundation of manufacturing that built this country – the same foundation we're proud to support with every tool we engineer and every connection we help make.
Your skills matter. Your work matters. And the right opportunity is out there waiting for you.
Ready to take the next step? More info about welding careers and start connecting with employers who value what you bring to the table. Because in American manufacturing, there's always room for welders who take pride in their craft.
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