Embarking on a career as a welder in West Plains, MO, typically begins with enrolling in a technical training program or apprenticeship, which combines hands-on experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. These programs usually last between 6 to 18 months, providing comprehensive training under experienced professionals. According to the American Welding Society, there are approximately 771,000 welding professionals nationwide, with a steady demand for skilled welders. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2-3% growth in the welding sector from 2025 onwards. Apprentices in West Plains can expect to earn an average wage of $50 per hour, with experienced welders often surpassing $75,000 annually, reflecting the strong earning potential and job stability in the welding trade.
Job ID: 109549 The Leonardo DRS Land Systems business is a recognized leader in the design and integration of complex technologies into new and legacy systems and platforms for global military and commercial customers. We are a 4 year running Top Workplace in the Greater St. Louis area. Job Summary Leonardo DRS is looking for experienced Aluminum welders to fill second shift positions. Applicant must be familiar with GMAW and GTAW aluminum weld processes and be able to pass assessment testing. Applicant will be required to pass 2G and 3G downhill plate test using GMAW process and 2G plate test using GTAW process. Applicant must be familiar with welding various thicknesses from 0.125 to 1inch. Job Responsibilities • Responsible and accountable for producing quality work to prescribed standards, with a focus on continuous improvement to meet customer commitments on schedule and within budget • Follow written work instructions must maintain a safe work environment by adhering to all safety procedures including • those which govern the handling of materials, chemicals, tools, and equipment (WHMIS) • Properly use required PPE • Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization • Understand requirements, possess appropriate skills, and perform various welding processes in some positions on products of specific metal types • Must be proficient in aluminum TIG and MIG process. 4 or more years of aluminum welding experience is preferred. • Weld with an acceptable degree of proficiency, experience and knowledge, and meet various codes and specifications including AWS and ASME • Perform material preparation, open set-up and fit to meet process requirements. • Read blueprints, weld symbols and NDE symbols and interpret acceptance criteria • Accurately perform visual inspection of weldments to confirm compliance to various codes and standards Job Responsibilities Part II Qualifications • High School diploma or GED • Weld school certification – preferred • Aluminum weld experience required. • Be familiar with GMAW and GTAW aluminum weld processes Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. • Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. #LSY
See More Details >>Job Title: Aluminum Welder We are seeking an experienced Aluminum welder to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of GMAW and GTAW aluminum weld processes and be able to pass assessment testing. Key Responsibilities: • Produce quality work to prescribed standards with a focus on continuous improvement • Maintain a safe work environment by adhering to all safety procedures • Use required PPE and follow written work instructions • Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization • Perform various welding processes in some positions on products of specific metal types Requirements: • High School diploma or GED • Weld school certification preferred • Aluminum weld experience required Benefits We offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan.
See More Details >>