How much do welders make in a year?

The average annual salary for a welder was $39,600, as of July 2019. This wage may be higher depending on your employer. It’s also important to note that many welders get paid commission for the number of pieces or jobs they complete in addition to their usual salary.

How much do welders typically make per hour?

Welding, like most trade work, pays well. The average hourly rate in the United States for welders is $19.00 per hour, although you can make much more or much less than that depending on a number of factors.

The going rate for welders depends on what company you work for, what your specific skill set and qualifications are, and of course, your geographical location.

As the old saying goes, “location, location, location.” Where you live really will affect your salary. The highest paying states are New York and Massachusetts, who often pay close to this average $19.00 hourly rate. Florida and North Carolina though, are some of the lowest-paying states with an hourly wage closer to $14.00 an hour. That said, places that pay more oftentimes have higher costs of living and places that pay less can also have lower costs of living.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that welders are often paid commission in addition to their salary. This is especially common in the manufacturing sector. So even if your hourly wage is on the low side of the national average, you could still bring in a big paycheck if you complete a lot of commission work.

What is the typical job description of a welder? 

If you are on the hunt for a welding job, you are likely to see a job description similar to this:

In search of a hard-working, passionate individual who is a certified welder. Will be responsible for producing pipe welds that consistently meet company standards. Must also follow company policies of safety and integrity. Must be able to pass 6G Welding Test on 6 sch. 40 Carbon Steel: 6010 Root 7018, as well as pass a drug test. All equipment is provided.

How many years does it take to become a welder?

Welder training can take anywhere from 7 to 16 months. This seems like a large gap, but that is due mostly to the many different specialist training you can take on. Because a welder can work with many different kinds of metals in many different situations and for a multitude of purposes, there is a lot to cover when it comes to educating a welder. 

Are welders paid weekly?

Employers determine their employees’ pay schedules, so there is no set standard for what jobs get paid when. Some companies will pay every week while others may pay bi-weekly. That said, it is rare to see any welding employer who pays on a monthly basis.

This is a great question to ask your future employer in an interview so you can budget for your needs going forward.

What kinds of welding positions are there? 

The easy answer is there are a lot. There are many different types of welding certifications. Welding certifications and codes exist because there are so many types of welding patterns and materials to work with.

Some companies may need a welder to construct metal furniture that requires simple weld points. Other companies are creating vehicles that need to withstand hundreds of pounds of pressure. Even others may utilize welders to precisely cut metals for production. With all of these possible needs, there are a plethora of welding opportunities that may take you to an indoor factory, an outdoor construction yard, or even hanging off the side of a building!

Where do welders work?

Given the nature of the job, welders are not going to be found in an office space. Welding jobs exist in construction and manufacturing because of the line of work. Shipyards, car manufacturers, aerospace companies, building construction and industrial manufacturing are the most common places a welding opportunity would be available. Other operations that may use welders include utilities and city governments. These companies will often have welders install pipelines, weld bridges or repair existing metal infrastructure.

What kind of education do you need to have to become a welder? 

Many vocational schools offer welder training programs. These programs can take anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on the intensity of the classes. The classes will include hands-on training, best safety practices and the study of metals. 

Another similar option, sans the classroom time, is an apprenticeship. These are paid jobs that train you while you work. Most of this training is hands-on and, since you are working, you often get a better picture of the operations of the business as a whole. Apprenticeships, while more hands-on, do often take longer to complete — usually a few years.

Either option is a great way to pursue this career, but neither will get you to the finish line completely. No matter which education route you choose, you will still need to become certified to be hirable.

What is the job outlook for welder positions?

If you are considering welding as a career, it is likely to be a safe bet. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that welding jobs are projected to grow over the next few years. It attributes this growth to the aging infrastructure of the nation (i.e., bridges, highways and buildings) that will need the expertise of welders to be rebuilt, repaired or maintained. Also, there is a massive shortage of people with a skilled trade to fill jobs in the manufacturing sector. This industry sector, in particular, relies heavily on welders who help them craft their goods.

What is the difference between a coded welder and a certified welder? 

A certified welder is one who has been certified, on paper, to be able to physically weld pieces that comply with a set of industry standards. These pieces must be welded correctly so they can stay strong under pressure. A certified welder is, technically, certified to weld but may not have complete knowledge of how to weld for a particular company or material. This is where a coded welder title comes in.

A coded welder is one who has learned a specific “code” or specific weld practice. These codes are normally material or industry-specific, such as pipe welding. A welder who holds both certification and codes is a wealth of knowledge. Normally, though, a certification is all that is required to be hired on with a company. The company will most likely send you for code training after being hired so you are familiar with their specific welding needs.

What are the different types of welding certifications?

Each welding certification and code is based around the types of metals being welded or the type of weld pattern being used. There are numerous types, but some of the most common are:

• Structural Steel
• Structural Aluminum
• Bridge Welding
• TIG
• MIG
• Robotic Arc Welding
• Pipe Welding

What is a welders certification?

A welder’s certification is a document issued by a trusted entity (in the U.S. normally the American Welding Society) vouching for your skills as a welder. It is proof that you know how to perform basic welds to a national standard and can do so with instruction and safety in mind. While this is a very important document to pursue it simply verifies you know how to weld at a basic level.

To get a job or move up in your career as a welder, you will need to find valuable welding codes. Determine which codes will show you are competent in specialized welding areas, such as pipe or bridge welding.

What are the typical hours for a welder?

Welders can work nearly any hour or schedule depending on weather, industry and need. Some welders work standard hours while others work may depend on various business circumstances.

For instance, if you are constructing a building, your company may not need you to weld or cut until the survey crew has completed their work first. In instances like these, you may be called in at a later hour to work around when the job-site can use you.

This isn’t always the case though. If you work in a car manufacturing plant, it is highly likely you will be working the same shift each day and for weeks at a time. That’s because these facilities can better plan their need for welders based on demand, and they don’t have to work around things like weather. You may also be asked to travel for work, especially if welders are in low supply with your company or geographic area. If this is the case, you may be working odd hours that accommodate the traveling.

Can you get your welders certification online? 

While there are several great educational resources available online for the welding field, there is not a legitimate way to become fully certified online. Given the dangerous nature of welding, grinding or soldering, it is required that you take an in-person certification test to prove your competency.

Many sites offer courses on the basics of welding, safety and blueprint reading. Some others may introduce you to working with particular metals or specific industry standards. None of these online courses can provide you with your full certification. An online certification also will not give you the hands-on experience you need to be successful as a welder.

What is the career outcome for a welder? 

If you want to climb the ladder as a welder, there is plenty of room to climb if you are willing to learn. There are a number of advancement opportunities in this field that can help you grow your skills and paychecks.

Often, welders become certified in another welding specialty such as a Tig Welder or Combo Welder. These specialized paths can mean job security and greater pay, since they are the next step in welding school and knowledge. You can also go the route of teacher and instructor certify future welders. 

If you’re really brave — or just looking for something different — you can be trained on extremely specialized welding, such as underwater welding or military-support welding. These jobs pay extremely well, some in the $100,000 range and more, but — as you’ve probably guessed — these jobs are often dangerous.

No matter which route you take, it is clear there is a lot of opportunity for welders. 

What is the typical job description of a warehousing material handler?

A warehouse material handler job description would look something like this:

In search of a reliable and talented individual to act as a Material Handler for our production line. Job duties include organizing supplies, delivering necessary supplies to the production line, pulling orders for shipping and arranging finished products. Additional related duties include labeling product locations, preparing finished items for shipping, and data entry of stock used or created. Candidate must be great at multitasking, time management, organizing and staying detail-oriented.

What does a material handler do in general?

A material handler is very important since this person can make or break warehouse and factory production. Material handlers are responsible for maintaining and organizing all the materials throughout the production process.

What is the salary of a material handler for a warehouse?

The average salary for a material handler is about $29,000 annually or $14.00 an hour. As with any job, this wage can vary depending on the company and location.

On the low side, a material handler can expect about $11.00 per hour or a little under $23,000 each year. On the high side, you may see upwards of $19.00 per hour, which equates to an annual salary of $39,500.

Again, these wages depend on several factors, including where you live. If you live in Wyoming or Iowa, you are in luck! These states have the highest average pay for material handlers. If you find yourself in California or Hawaii, however, you may be at the tail end of this list of average wages per state.

How do I find material handler jobs near me?

You can find a material handler job just about anywhere you live. This position is very common among warehouses, factories, shipyards and construction sites. That being said, at least one of these listed industries are probably near your location. A simple Google search for “Material Handler jobs near me” should provide you with many opportunities.

You should also reach out to your local recruiter so you will have someone who can keep an ear to the ground on possible job openings. Many times, recruiters may be privy to positions with their partner companies that are not open to the public. As well, a recruiter can match you with a job or company that fits your personality, skillset or even lifestyle requirements (such as specific shifts or insurance needs).

What kind of education do I need to become a material handler?

While you can snag a material handler position straight out of high school or with a GED, but some companies do require more. Many material handlers are required to attend company or OSHA-approved training course once they are hired. This is to ensure that they know how to properly handle the materials they will be working with at a specific company. Some material handlers have to deal with items that are heavy, sharp or abrasive. This requires training so they and others don’t get hurt. Other handlers may have to move chemicals, which require training so no one is in danger. Even other handlers may be put on a track to become forklift certified as the materials they move require the use of heavy equipment.

All this is to say that, to become a material handler, you are not required to have any prior training or education but that you should expect it to be a part of the job as you move throughout your career. You can even get ahead of the game by taking on some of these pieces of training beforehand if you are interested in a particular industry or company and know what training and certifications they may want.

What kind of other qualifications do I need to think about to become a material handler?

Again, while there is no formal schooling that you need before becoming a material handler, there are certifications and training opportunities you can seek out to help your resume and job chances. These can include OSHA safety training, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or hazardous waste management.

You may also want to work on your physical fitness. This job requires many hours of standing, walking, squatting, lifting and moving materials so your endurance and strength must be ready for the work too.

Finally, you may want to consider your prior work experience and resume. If you are applying to become a material handler it looks better on your resume if you have some prior experience in the work environment you will be entering. Having prior experience in a warehouse, factory or construction site indicates to potential employers that you understand the working conditions and goal of the job.

Where do material handlers work?

Given the universal skillset that a material handler brings to the table, this position can be seen in many different industries. Material handlers will typically work in warehouse, factory or construction-site industries. There are many other industries that can utilize a material handler’s skill. An automotive garage may need a material handler who understands how to move, store and maintain flammable liquids like oil and gas. A grocery store may need a material handler who understands how to manage and store food with expiration dates. One thing to keep in mind with these other industries is they may not label the job as a “material handler.” A grocery store may call the position “Inventory Manager” and the automotive garage may call the job “Hazardous Materials Specialist.” While the job title may vary, the overall duties remain the same.

What types of industries can you be a material handler in?

As we discussed above, there isn’t a finite list of industries that require a material handler’s skills. However, there are likely a few common industries you will notice in your job search. These industries include anything that normally falls into the warehousing, manufacturing or construction businesses — think carmakers, construction sites, utility plants or even chemical storage sites.

The reason these industries are so commonly related to a material handler job is simply the nature of their business. These types of industries often work with large amounts of dangerous materials which can be corrosive chemicals, metals that are sharp or heavy objects that could hurt someone if not properly handled. These industries also move large quantities of items, such as a manufacturing plant, so they need someone who can efficiently and accurately organize and move these materials.

What kind of skills do you need for a material handler?

Since a material handler is responsible for the “fuel” of the operation (i.e.— raw materials that become products, or simply the finished products themselves), there are some skills that you should possess to be a good fit for this job. For a material handler to perform well, they should have the following skills:

• Organization
• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Physically fit
•  Safety-oriented
• Hand-eye coordination
• Multi-tasking

What are similar jobs to a material handler?

When seeking out a particular position, there are quite a few similar titles that a job may fall under. A material handler is no different. If you are looking for material handler jobs, be on the look-out for similar jobs with slightly different names:

• Stock Handler
• Package Handler
• Freight Handler
• Bulk Material Handler
• Inventory Handler
• Chemical Handler
• Parts Handler

Beyond alternate job titles, some jobs are similar to material handling in the work being done. A Picker is a similar position since they are responsible for picking out exact parts or products to complete orders. A Warehouse/Line Operator is responsible for running a production line or warehouse. This job requires similar organization and time-management skills. Finally, an Order Selector is similar to material handling but normally occurs in the outgoing portion of a warehouse. This job involves picking out finished products, packaging them and preparing them for shipment to the consumer.

Another option to consider, if you are looking to move beyond material handling, is jobs in the same field but with different responsibilities. You may choose to pursue your forklift operator’s license or welding certification and move into one of these jobs, both of which are also often based in the same industries a material handler would be found in.

What is it like to be the lead material handler?

Becoming a lead material handler is fantastic news. It means a pay raise and direct reports, but it also means more responsibilities. Lead material handlers are responsible for all the normal day-to-day tasks as a material handler, but they are also often responsible for coordinating the activities of other material handlers for various areas of operations. A lead material handler needs to organize operations so each department gets the materials they need, when they need them. They are also responsible for overseeing all inventory of materials and restocking these promptly.

Do you need a license to become a material handler?

You do not require a license or prior certification to move into a material handler position. This makes the job the perfect opportunity if you are straight out of high school, college or simply looking for a job without any prior experience.

Many times, a company will take you on without prior training because they want to provide you with their training and necessary certifications. There will be some companies that prefer prior experience or particular certifications, especially if their industry works with special materials. For example, if you are looking to become a material handler at a water treatment facility, it would be a good idea to take a course on proper chemical handling since you may be working with chlorine or hazardous waste disposal in case you are responsible for handling the by-products after the water is cleaned.

Some more general licenses you can receive that will work for any material handler position are safety-related training such as CPR or First Aid. No matter if you work with dangerous materials or not, safety is always an appreciated skill when working in manufacturing or warehousing industries.

What kind of training do you need to become a material handler?

You won’t require any prerequisite training to become a material handler but it is never a bad idea. If you have the time and finances, you may want to seek out optional training that can boost your resume. This can include OSHA safety training, specialized materials handling or first aid certification. These additional pieces of training or certifications may mean the difference between you and another candidate coming in for the same job.

What is a CNC machinist’s salary?

A CNC machinist can expect an average salary starting at $18.00 an hour or $37,000 annually. This wage can run the gambit, however, based on several factors such as location and previous experience. Hourly wages for a CNC machinist can be as low as $16.00 and upwards of $50.00 per hour for those with advanced skills!

As of 2019, New York and Massachusetts have the highest average wages for CNC machinists coming in around $46,000 a year. North Carolina currently holds the title for the lowest average wage at $33,000 annually. These location averages are normally related to the demand for a particular job coupled with the supply of skilled workers available.

Like many jobs, there is also room for growth that can help increase your pay. You can become a supervisor, a journeyman machinist, CNC technician, or even move into another industry-related field such as welder or forklift driver. Expanding your knowledge and experience is never a bad bet when trying to boost your salary.

What does a CNC machinist do?

A CNC machinist is responsible for overseeing manufacturing machines. These machines are labeled as “Computer Numerical Controlled,” which essentially means they are programmed and then run by a computer to complete their manufacturing task.

It is quickly becoming a thing of the past for a person to stand and pull a lever thousands of times a day to help a machine do its job. Now, we rely on computer-controlled machines that can run themselves once they are set-up and programmed. A CNC machinist has the enormous duty of setting-up, maintaining and programming these machines. On paper, it may not sound difficult, but this job requires a great amount of knowledge and attention to detail.

What kind of environment does a CNC machinist work in?

Most CNC machinists work in a warehouse or factory setting. As a result, you will most likely be standing for much of the day and working around loud noises, heavy machinery and possibly even extreme temperatures.

You may also be required to wear a specific uniform depending on the warehouse environment. Some employers may require employees to wear coveralls, dust masks, steel-toe boots, hard hats or even gloves.

What does a CNC machinist do day-to-day?

Day-to-day, CNC machinists can expect to come into work and be assigned to one of many machines in the facility, depending on what products need to be manufactured that day. The machine may need to be set-up, programmed or calibrated before starting. Once the machine is ready, you will likely stick around to run the machine. Once items are done being processed by the machine, they will need to be removed, inspected and packaged for their next destination in the facility.

You may not work on the same machine all day. Some days may be mostly spent programming machines for operators to use. You may also be expected to work on a shift schedule rather than the typical 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule. Since many of these machinist jobs are in the manufacturing sector, the company will likely need a machinist on-site around the clock in case a machine needs to be programmed, calibrated or repaired. This isn’t always the case, but it’s possible, especially if you are the newest machinist within the company.

What kind of skills do CNC machinists need to have?

CNC machinists are both talented and exceptionally knowledgeable. This job often requires heavy lifting, tool work, familiarity with manufacturing, and stamina that is needed to work in a factory setting. On the flip side, this job requires a great deal of computer, math and mechanical knowledge. Without both sets of skills, machinists would be unable to set up the machines for manufacturing. They would also not be able to move and place parts where they are required to go next. This job also requires a great deal of attention to detail, precision and problem-solving skills. These additional skills ensure that the machinist can guarantee quality work, prevent errors and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

What kind of hours do CNC machinists work?

Many machinists work regular business hours but, given the primary industries that utilize CNC machinists, you may not always find normal 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. hours. Companies that use CNC machines are normally in the manufacturing sector. Because of this, these companies need to produce their products whenever supply demands it.

As a result, hours may be during standard business hours or hours could include nights and weekends. With this demand comes the need for a machinist who can keep the machines programmed and working to meet the demand. This is why you may find yourself working a second or third shift — especially if you are new.

You may also be required to be “on-call” if you don’t work these later hours. This way, the company can have you come in only when you are needed outside of typical business hours. While being on-call is a great opportunity for overtime and having your weekends and nights available, it also means that you may have to stop on a dime to be at work.

Having to work nights, weekends and being on-call have their pros and cons, so it is important to consider what hours the companies near you are offering.

What kind of education do CNC machinists need?

There are multiple steps to becoming a CNC machinist that require a good bit of time and commitment to education. You may be wondering what kind of school do CNC machinists go to. CNC machinists have a few options when it comes to their education.

Some may choose a vocational school, trade school or technical institute. Here, you will learn how to complete many advanced techniques in a classroom and hands-on setting.

You can also learn how to become a machinist on the job. This route normally means you are employed with a company in an entry-level position, but while you are on the job, you are also learning to become a CNC machinist for this company. You will likely work under a journeyman or senior CNC machinist who will teach you the ropes of machining.

In this digital world we live in there is also an online option for CNC education. This option is similar to a vocational option in that you will be learning in a classroom-like setting through the web. The one element an online element is lacking is the hands-on education. Many online institutions don’t provide this part of the coursework. With an online option, you also need to be aware of scams. Before you pay for a program, make sure you do your research to determine the online course is legitimate.

Any school option will likely take a few years — oftentimes two — but can help get you on track to the career you are dreaming of. Once you finish either of these schooling options, you will next need to be certified to become an official CNC machinist.

During this time, it is a good idea to get some working experience under your belt for when your formal education is finished. You can use this opportunity to work in a factory or warehouse-type setting and gain some experience to list on your resume. You may also be able to do some practice runs in your chosen career as a CNC Operator. This means that you have the knowledge and ability to run the CNC machines, but you are not certified to program or troubleshoot them.

Once this education is completed, you will also need to be certified. This step is very important because, without this certification, you are not officially a CNC machinist or programmer, no matter how much schooling you have taken.

One great thing about choosing the vocational school option is that they will likely include the certification process in your program. If you went the apprenticeship route, you will likely need to seek out certification on your own. This can easily be found through a Google search or by speaking to your journeyman.

There are several certifications you can obtain at this point. Each certification is closely related to a particular industry or machine type you will be working with. In an ideal situation, you would have as many relevant certifications as possible to make you a much more desirable candidate.

In reality, when you are first starting off, it may be best to go with the NIMS certification (National Institute of Metalworking Skills). The test for this certification will include a written exam to test your knowledge as well as a hands-on component to test your skills. This is the most recommended certification for general employment but as we said before, there are many other certifications available to help you grow in the position.
If you plan to work for a specific company, is best practice to see or ask what certifications they require or find most desirable. Obviously, you’ll want to do this before you choose to get certified. Either way, it’s a great place to start on the road to employment as a CNC machinist.

Once you have your certification in-hand, you will next need to begin your job hunt. This may be easy if you took the apprenticeship route and can step right into the position with the company you learned from. However, if you are starting the search fresh, you will need to take a few extra steps.

One of these is to prepare your resume. Like any resume, you will want to include your prior work experience as well as your machinist qualifications. This will encompass your certifications and schooling credentials. Next, you will begin the search for a CNC machinist job. This can start with a simple Google search, or you can meet with a local recruiter who can guide you to these specific jobs in your area.

What kind of training do CNC machinists need?

Beyond the normal schooling and certification that CNC machinists require, there may be additional training that the company requires or a machinist opts for. If it is a company requirement, this training may be for safety, company protocol, or for new machinery or parts the company may be using. If the training is something you opt for, it is likely additional certifications that can help progress your career and knowledge of the trade. You may even be able to convince your employer to pay for this additional training since it also benefits them to have a skilled machinist on their team.

What is a job description of a CNC machinist?

If you are in the market for a position as a CNC machinist, you will likely run across a job description similar to the following:
“We are looking for a skilled CNC Machinist with programming certification. You will be responsible for accurately and safely setting up, programming, or running of the CNC machinery using G-code. This should be done with the utmost precision to maintain the quality of our products. You will be responsible for quality control and accurate measurements of finished components, keeping CNC machines clean, performing any routine maintenance on the machines, and following all company safety protocol.”

What kind of certification do CNC machinists need?

There are numerous certification options for machinists to pursue and each one is dependant on the industry or specialized machine. While no one specific certification is needed, the one that is most recommended to be hireable is the NIMS certification (National Institute of Metalworking Skills). You may want to check with your potential employers though to see what certification they find most desirable for their production. You can have multiple certifications throughout your career that will make you a much more attractive candidate in future employment opportunities.

How do you find an apprenticeship as a CNC machinist?

Even though the word apprenticeship is being used, please understand that this is a paid job with the intent of teaching you while you work. That being said, you can find a machinist apprenticeship just like you would find a normal job. This can be done through a simple google search and you will find these positions are often entry-level with little experience requirements.

Can you find trust-worthy CNC machinist training online?

Trustworthy training is available online but it will require a bit of leg-work to make sure it is legitimate. While there is no official agency putting their stamp on online content, one of the easiest ways to know if an online program is credible is through its past clientele. It’s a good idea to choose a training program that has trained other employees for Fortune 500 companies and other well-known companies.

Are there entry-level CNC machinist jobs?

Since a CNC machinist is a career that requires certification, you likely won’t find an entry-level position where you can walk off the street with zero qualifications. Upon receiving your certifications, you may be able to snag a job with no prior on-site experience, but, you will have a better chance of being hired if you have prior experience working as a machinist. During your training, it is a good idea to take on a job that will allow you to snag some relatable experience, such as in a warehouse or factory line experience.

Can you find part-time machinist jobs?

There is always an exception to the rule, but in most cases, no, you are not likely to find part-time work as a CNC machinist. Simply put, this job often requires many hours on multiple machines. That said, machinists are highly sought after. You may be able to work out a deal with a company near you that gives you a part-time or more flexible schedule. It never hurts to ask.

What is the demand for machinists?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that between now and 2026, there will be little to no change in the demand for CNC machinists. They predict that by 2026 there will be an additional 8,000 jobs in addition to the natural replacement of existing CNC machinists who retire or leave the industry.

How do I find CNC machinist jobs near me?

The wonderful thing about CNC machinist jobs is that they are practically everywhere! With these jobs primarily being in the manufacturing sector, it is highly likely there is a factory, plant or warehouse near you that would need a machinist. That being said, you can easily Google “CNC machinist jobs near me” and be provided with several open positions. Another option is to meet with your local recruiter. This option is great for a few reasons.

First, a recruiter will usually be aware of opportunities near your area that are not open to the public on job boards. This is often because staffing services have special relationships with local companies to help them find the best candidate as quickly and easily as possible.

Secondly, a recruiter will get to know you on a personal level. This allows them to help place you in a job or with a company that fits your personality and skill set. Lastly, a recruiter can help you sniff out the perfect job if you have particular boxes that must be checked. If you have to work regular business hours for personal reasons, they can help pair you with a company or job that would fit these needs.

Whether you’re just starting out in the world of work, you took a long employment break and are ready to get back into the job market, or you want to try to jump into a new field you have no experience in, starting out without the experience desires is difficult. 

If you are asking yourself, “How do I find work without any job experience?”, you’re not alone. Many people are on the hunt just like you and are also lacking the experience they require or desire to snag their next position.

Many companies are aware of this trend, and some are beginning to shift their hiring practices so they can snag great, but untraditional, employees.

Despite your gaps, not having the necessary experience isn’t as much of a dead end as you would think. While the journey to your new career may be a bit harder given the circumstances, it’s not impossible. Below are some ideas and considerations if you happen to be in the “no experience” boat.

Look for entry-level options

One of the first avenues you are likely to pursue in your job search is to find out what kind of jobs don’t require experience. The common answer here is to seek out entry-level positions. 

Entry-level positions are jobs a company needs to be filled quickly and easily because they are normally critical to the day-to-day activities of the company. The actions performed in the job can usually be taught quickly so that employees can begin working at full capacity in a fairly short amount of time. You will notice that these jobs commonly fall under the customer service, data entry or physical labor umbrella of work. You can normally even find these positions by simply searching “No experience required” on job board websites. 

Translate your experience

You may be asking yourself, “How do I write a resume with no job experience?” While the limited experience you do have may not seem relevant at first glance, you may be surprised how well many skills can translate across different careers. For example, if you have been a server in a restaurant and are looking to move into an accounting environment, it may seem like your resume is irrelevant. Think again. 

As a server, you have had to utilize skills such as customer service, multi-tasking, problem-solving, teamwork and time management. If you truly have no job experience to put down then pull from your own life experiences. If you are a mother, you are likely great at multi-tasking and have patience. If you are a farmer, you have experience in labor-intensive jobs, project management, and even a knowledge of horticulture or livestock.

When applying for a job, it’s not always about the titles you’ve held in the past, but rather the skills you had to use each day. Spell these skills out on your resume so interviewers can easily see that you do have relevant experience to the job you are applying for.

Make it a side hustle

Sometimes the job you are looking to apply for is just too drastic of a change from your available experience. If you are a customer service agent with dreams of becoming a personal trainer, it is a huge risk to quit your day job to pursue something you have never done before. Gain some knowledge, experience and even potential connections by taking on a job as your side hustle.

Even if your ambitions don’t include you running your own business, this is still a great option to get some further experience under your belt. You take weekend or night shifts or even work busy holidays.

Also, you will be considered part-time so a company may be more willing to take you on despite your lack of experience if they are only paying a part-time wage. You, however, are the one winning since you will have extra cash-in-hand and more content for your resume.

Work for less pay

If you lack experience, you may need to make a trade-off by accepting less pay. That is not to say you should work for free, but this willingness may convince a company to take you on. 

Once you have proven yourself and your skill set, you will have the leverage to ask for more money. This is never anyone’s first choice when trying to snag a job, but it may be a necessary evil if you aren’t having luck in the job scene. This may be your last resort, which is completely understandable. That said, if you are just starting out, you will more than likely be working the less desirable jobs for less pay than others with more experience. 

You are paid for your experience. When you have proven yourself, you will have many more opportunities open to you. While the world has changed a lot in the last couple of decades, there’s still something to be said for “working your way up the ladder.” 

Determine if accepting a job with low pay that exposes you to the experience you need to make your career dreams come true is a short-term pain that will result in long-term gain.

Play to the experience you do have

You may not have any experience with cars, but if you could sell Tupperware at home parties, you have a knack for sales. Similarly, you can use your top skills to sell yourself in particular jobs. 

While sales has many facets, at the end of the day, the job’s main mission is to sell. The same goes for cooking staff in a kitchen. There are many responsibilities but the one that counts most is that they can cook.

The same concept can often be applied to jobs seeking a required degree as well. If a supervisor role with a construction company asks for a college diploma but you have been working in construction for decades, you likely have the skills and knowledge that company is looking for — even though you don’t have the qualifications on paper. Many skills in a job can be taught, but if you have the talent for the main goal of a particular job, you should definitely play to this skill set. 

Get in the door, even if it’s not necessarily what you want to do

If you lack the experience for the job you want, it may benefit you to apply for an entry-level position that can eventually lead to your dream career. This can be an entry-level job that is related to your chosen career. For example, if you want to manage a hotel, you may be able to work your way along this career path by starting with an entry-level job at a hotel, restaurant or event center.

Another option along the same lines is choosing a company that has a position in your chosen path. If you want to be a zookeeper, your best bet would be to take on a job at a zoo. Even if this first job is selling tickets at the front gate, it still puts you in the same orbit as current zookeepers and management that can put you in that position later. By putting yourself closer to your desired job or organization, you can increase your experience and chances of getting that job down the line.

Network

It’s no secret that sometimes it’s who you know rather than what you know. Reach out to your network and explain your situation. Be honest that, while you don’t necessarily have the experience, you have the passion and drive to get the job done. Your network can be as close as your family and immediate friends, but don’t forget about your expanded network of school friends, church members or old co-workers. Whether you have no job experience after college, or you are in your 30s with no job experience, you likely have a circle of friends and family that can help you find a job opportunity of some kind.

You can also grow your network by finding people closely related to the job industry. Visiting job fairs, networking mixers, or even your local recruiter will give you a friend in the job scene. They are more likely to be able to help translate any skills you do have or help you find opportunities, despite some missing experience.

Look for companies with paid training

Some companies are so desperate for workers they are willing to give you the experience you are looking for. Some industries will bring you onto their payroll and then send you straight to training. This can often be seen in the trucking, heavy equipment and warehousing industries. You can come on board with little or no experience and then be certified and paid — all on the company’s dime. This is one of the simplest ways to snag a warehouse job with no experience and is a particularly popular path to become a forklift operator.

This option, while amazing, is limited as there are very few industries offering such a great deal. That said, it is an opportunity that is worth being on the lookout for. You may even want to keep this option in your back pocket if you are currently employed. You can check in from time to time on the job market in your area in case any promotions like this pop-up.

Meet a Recruiter

Often, location plays a huge factor in the jobs available to you. If you are from a small town or rural area you may be wondering, “Where are jobs with no experience near me?” It can be tough to find zero-experience jobs in more remote areas of the country, but it’s not impossible. One of your best options here is to meet with your nearest staffing recruiter.

Having someone in your corner who can help you find opportunities is invaluable. Staffing agencies have direct connections with companies throughout your area. This works to your advantage as a staffing agency is likely to sit down and get to know you, your goals and your experiences on a more personal level. After they understand what your needs are, they can match you with opportunities even if you don’t fit the “experience profile” perfectly.

A staffing company can recommend you for a position and use their good name and history to help you get your foot in the door at a new job. 

Nail the Interview

So, you got an interview, but now you are not sure how to explain you have no experience? You have to make up the lack of word count on your resume by making a great impression. Go into your interview with confidence and a plan. If the interviewees ask you about your lack of experience, be ready to sell them on you, despite your lacking resume. 

You may choose to tell them that while you don’t necessarily have the experience on paper, you have a knack for the main skillset of the job. You may instead say that what you lack in experience is made up for in passion and work ethic. You might even decide to say you are a quick learner and can gain the skills needed to perform the job easily. 

This argument may not win your interviewer over, but then again, you may strike a chord where you remind the interviewer of a younger version of themselves, or they may see the sincerity in your words and trust that over a resume. Again, this isn’t a sure way to snag the job, but it is another method to compensate for a less than desirable resume.

Having no experience makes it more difficult to find a job, but it is more than possible to find something as long as you can be patient and make a few sacrifices while you are starting out. In today’s economy, many employers have figured out that skills and a willingness to learn are more important than a degree or past job titles. There are plenty of options to help you get on the right track for finding your next position. Once you find that next job, you can build on your experience for the next position and the next. 

Can child support take my whole paycheck?

Your child support deductions likely won’t be your whole paycheck but, depending on the support the courts are requiring you to pay, a large chunk can be subtracted from your paycheck.

A calculated monthly amount will first be deducted from your pay, along with other required items like state and federal taxes.

If you still owe any past due child support payments after these deductions are made, your check can have more money taken from it. According to federal law, a maximum of 65% of your remaining paycheck can be withheld for past due child support.

This is a huge amount of money to possibly be withheld. Luckily, some states have lower withholding percentages than the federal maximum.

While 65% is the highest amount that can be deducted, this percentage can be lower based on factors such as how far past due your arrears are and if you are financially supporting a second family.

The overall amount deducted from your paycheck will be determined after mandatory deductions such as your monthly child support and taxes.

So, for example, if your paycheck is $300.00 and $100.00 is taken from your paycheck for mandatory tax deductions, this leaves $200.00 in eligible income for your past due child support garnishments to be deducted from. If your situation requires you to pay the maximum 65% on this eligible $200.00, then your child support garnishment would be $130.00, leaving you with $70.00.

Keep in mind, this is just an example using the highest range of withholding percentages. Your circumstances may be much different, depending on how much you owe in past due support payments and if you are the breadwinner for a second family.

How do child support paycheck deductions work?

Child support payments can be deducted from your paycheck as a result of a court order. This occurs when the court considers you the “noncustodial parent” who is responsible for contributing to his or her child’s day-to-day financials, called the monthly support obligation.

As the noncustodial parent, this means you do not have primary custody of your child but still need to contribute to their food, clothing or educational needs.

Now, the amount you pay monthly in child support is determined by a judge and the factors that go into this decision are your wage, the other guardian’s wage and the financial needs of the child, such as tuition or medical insurance.

Your monthly child support payment is based on a set calculation made by your state. Each is different (and quite complex), but the usual considerations that make up your monthly support payments are your wage, the other guardian’s wage and the number of children being supported. Other factors a judge may take into consideration are the childrens’ financial needs.

Your employer will be notified of the amount you need to pay in child support and then this amount will be deducted from your paycheck and sent to the state to be distributed to your child.

Do past due child support payments come out of my paycheck?

When child support payments are missed, this is considered child support back pay, past due child support or arrearments. This is considered a debt and can be deducted from your wages. The deduction of past due child support from your paycheck is often called a garnishment.

You will be garnished for these past due amounts again if a court believes that this is the only way for you to pay or catch up on the balance. A garnishment is subtracted from your paycheck after your monthly child support amount is deducted.

Once more, the court will notify your employer of the garnishment, and from there, your company will deduct the proper amount and send it to the state to be paid to your child.

Another thing to keep in mind is that child support back pay accrues interest and this interest rate is set by your state. If you owe a lot of past due child support, the amount due to your child will be a bit higher than you anticipated because of this interest.

Am I required to pay child support through a paycheck deduction/garnishment?

Since this deduction from your wages is a court order you are required by law to have this money taken from your paycheck. This is often put in place to ensure that child support payments are guaranteed to be made and cannot be lost in the mail, shortchanged or generally forgotten.

If you don’t follow the child support order from the court, you can be punished by the court in a number of ways, including suspension of your driver license, passport denial, a tax return seizure, property liens or even jail time. Needless to say, it is best to make sure you pay your child support payments no matter how the money is distributed.

Can child support take half of my paycheck?

As we discussed previously, the amount that can be taken from your paycheck after your monthly child support balance can vary based on how much past due child support (arrears) you owe.

Federally, the limit that can be garnished from your paycheck for child support arrears is 50% to support a second family if you are less than 12 weeks in arrears on your child support payments.

If these circumstances don’t apply to you – for example, you are single or more than 12 weeks in arrears – then your withholding percentage will likely be higher. Again, though, there are some states with a lower minimum percentage.

One thing to keep in mind with all these large numbers rolling around is that these garnishments are only applied to your paycheck while you owe arrears.

Once your child support arrears have been paid in full, you will only have your monthly child support deductions taken from your paycheck. Your company must follow the court orders, so your employer has no say about when the arrears of your child support will be paid.

Can child support be more than my paycheck?

While, legally, your entire paycheck cannot be garnered, it can certainly feel that way. In situations where your paychecks are being garnished to the point that you are unable to maintain necessities such as rent or gas to drive to work, it may be time to request a review of your child support payments.

Courts take into account your child’s needs, but they also take your situation into account as well. If you can show a judge you are willing to pay or catch up on any owed arrears but need some leniency on the amount or frequency of payments, you may be able to have the amount of the garnishment or monthly support payments lowered.

Does child support come out of my paycheck before taxes?

Any monthly child support payments or garnishments will be deducted from your paycheck after taxes are taken out. This includes your federal and state taxes.

Other deductions you may see come out before your child support can include social security contributions, required retirement plans, medical insurance, disability insurance and union dues. These additional deductions will depend on your employer and state rulings.

How long does it take to garnish wages?

Once your employer receives the court order for your garnishment it must immediately begin the process of withholding from your checks. Many times these deductions will take effect on your next scheduled paycheck. The reason this process moves so quickly is that the court often requires your employer to confirm the garnishment has been processed.

Can I be fired if my employer receives a garnishment order?

You cannot be fired for having one garnishment order on your paycheck. This is a federal law that protects employees. However, if you have two or more garnishment orders on your paycheck, then your employer does have the right to end your employment with them.

There are some states that provide protections for employees with multiple garnishments and your company may not see a reason to let you go for having multiple garnishments.

Some companies, however, may consider this option if you work closely with the finances of the organization, seem distracted on the job from possible money concerns or if they feel the number of garnishment calculations is a burden.

If you feel that this could be a possibility, it may be beneficial to speak with your manager or HR representative at the company. Be honest with them about your garnishments and your desire to not only do well in your job but to use these garnishments as an opportunity to fulfill your financial obligations.

This open channel of communication can help your employer understand your need to keep your job and better understand your personal situation straight from you, not a court order.

What happens if my employer does not send in child support payments?

While your employer is responsible for sending your child support payments and garnishments to the state, you are ultimately responsible for making sure the payment makes it to your child.

While this is stressful, it’s important to know this responsibility. If your employer does not send the funds for some reason, you still need to pay the child support to keep from falling behind.

Sometimes, these missed payments by your company may be the result of office turnover or a clerical error. If you notice child support funds were taken but not paid to the state, be sure to immediately notify your company so they can send these funds over.

Normally notifying your employer will be enough to correct the issue but it is still important to retain copies of your pay stubs to show the child support deductions have been taken from your paycheck. This proves useful in the unfortunate event you have to take your employer to court for not passing along the deductions on a regular basis.

Child support as an independent contractor.

Being an independent contractor means you don’t have a payroll team processing your deductions for you. This doesn’t mean you are off the hook for paying any court-ordered child support.

In this case, you are now responsible for manually paying your child support. This requires you to send your payments each month to the state or guardian of your child. If you do not send your payments as required, you will likely face one of the many punishments that the court can hand down for child support cases.

So while being an independent contractor may mean more money or the ability to practice in your chosen profession, it also means you are responsible for maintaining any child support payments or garnishments on your own.

If this is your situation and you are not 100% sure about the process, it may be helpful to reach out to an attorney or financial consultant to help guide you in how the process, calculations and documentation works.

How does child support work if I live in a different state than my child?

When you do not work in the same state that your child lives in, your child support deductions will work in two ways.

Child support will be paid for as long – and for as much – as the state that gave you the court order requires. You will not, however, be garnished over the maximum percentage for the state you live in. It will only be deducted for your state’s required deductions.

So, for example, if you work in Idaho and your child support order comes from California, your paycheck will be deducted for the amount the California judge determines is your monthly payment. You will not, however, have to pay the mandatory deductions that California requires. Instead, you will pay for what Idaho requires, which are simply state and federal taxes. If you were also being garnished for child support arrears, you would only be garnished at Idaho’s rate rather than California’s.

Find your state’s information.

If you would like to know more about your state’s child support withholding practices, such as specific garnishment percentages or mandatory deductions that will come out of a paycheck before child support, you can find that information here. If you have further questions about child support and how it affects you, be sure to check out our companion article, that discusses paying child support when you are unemployed.

This article is not intended to serve as legal advice. When considering your child support options, you should seek the advice of legal counsel. 

Can child support arrears be forgiven?

Child support back pay cannot be totally forgiven or waived, but there are a few situations that can help you handle it.

• Double-check the amount the court states you are in arrears. You can always ask the court to recalculate this amount to make sure it is correct.
• If your child lived with you for a period that the back pay is referencing, the judge may lessen the child support amount. The court’s judgment will often depend on the amount of time and financial support that was given during the child’s stay.
• Back pay does accrue interest but, in some cases, you may not have to pay all of it.
• You can request a manageable payment schedule. While this doesn’t lessen the amount owed, it can make it so that you don’t fall behind, even more, trying to pay your original balance.
• Reach a settlement with the other guardian. If the debt is just too overwhelming, you may be able to reach a lump-sum settlement with the other guardian.
• You can also get a private loan to pay the back pay in some states. That said, this should always be a last resort since you will owe the loaned money back in the future with interest as well.

How do I pay child support if I don’t have a job or income?

Paying a required amount of money for child support may seem like an impossible task when you are unemployed, but there are a few methods to help lighten this load until you find your next job.

• As always, be sure to tell the courts as soon as possible about any changes to your employment status. By doing this, you can request a temporary suspension or reduction of your payments until you are able to find a job again.
• Apply for unemployment benefits if you are eligible. Child support payments can be deducted from these benefits to keep you from owing money you should have paid earlier (called arrears).

When will I get my tax return for child support?

 You will not get a tax return for child support. At this time, child support payments cannot be claimed on your annual taxes. That said, you might be able to claim your child as a dependent on your taxes, depending on your situation, but this normally requires the custodial parent to sign Form 8332 allowing the deduction to you. Either way, your child support will not be legally subtracted from your taxable income.

How much child support is taken from my unemployment, social security or disability benefits?

If you don’t pay your child support, it is considered an outstanding debt. Your arrears are collectible from unemployment, social security or disability benefits that are considered disposable income. The only social security benefit that is exempt from child support garnishments is SSI.

These benefits can pay both your monthly child support and any past due child support you may owe. If you do owe child support arrears, it can be garnished up to the federal limit of 65% depending on factors such as the amount of arrears owed or if you are supporting another family.

What should I do when child support is not being paid?

Whether you are the guardian parent or a noncustodial parent responsible for paying child support, it is frustrating when child support is not being paid.

If this happens, communication is key. Let the courts know what is going on so legal action can be taken. This may mean the required monthly payment will be readjusted so at least some money will make it to the child.

If your situation seems out of the ordinary or you need some help finding out the right direction to take things before speaking to a lawyer, there is a child support hotline that can provide basic guidance on child support issues. Their number is 888-369-0323.

Also, your state may have a similar hotline set up with that will provide you with more knowledge about your specific state’s laws and regulations.

What happens if I don’t pay child support?

Since child support payments are a court order, the nonpayment of child support puts you in contempt of court. In the worst-case scenario, this offense can land you in jail.

Many times, a judge will choose another form of punishment, such as wage garnishments, license suspension, or seizure of tax returns if it means the child support will be paid. One way to avoid any of these punishments is to keep the court aware of your situation.

If you lose your job, become sick for a long time or can’t keep up with the payments, it’s best to tell the court about your situation as soon as possible. Letting the court know what is happening in your life makes it possible for the child support order to be readjusted.

What happens when you go to jail for child support?

Having to go to jail for unpaid child support isn’t that typical, but it is possible. If a judge chooses jail time as your punishment for unpaid support, a few things can happen. Jail time is possible and well as the seizure of your unpaid support. These seizures can include your tax refund, a property lien or bank account liquidations.

You will continue to increase your child support balance while in jail. As a convicted criminal, you will have a public record showing your conviction.

No one wants any of these circumstances stacked on their plate, which is why it is important to work with the courts to avoid jail time and pay child support on time. That said, if you have been to jail for missing child support, your life is not over – it will just add some challenges that you can overcome.

Is not paying child support a felony?

You can receive a felony charge for not paying child support, but most cases don’t. That said, it’s important to understand this is a possibility.

The charge will depend on your violation record and the amount of child support back pay that is owed. Usually, you will be charged as a misdemeanor, which results in immediate payment of the arrears or additional fines.

If you do not pay your child support frequently though, you might receive a felony charge on your record. If this happens, you could spend time in jail.

How much jail time do you get for non-payment of child support?

Child support jail sentences will make you serve less than six months, but some convictions can be up to two years. These sentences are often attached to repeat offenders who owe large amounts of child support back pay. The time given in the sentence comes from what the judge believes is a decent amount of time for the offender to understand their wrongdoing and thus pay the debt.

Do you have to pay child support in jail?

Yes, child support does continue to accumulate while in jail and often comes with interest. Debt like this can increase quickly. This creates child support back pay that will guarantee garnishments on your wages or even the government withholding your property and assets.

If you are in jail and gaining child support arrears, it is beneficial to work out a payment schedule when you are released. This will let the courts know you are trying to get rid of the debt in a reasonable amount of time.

Does child support affect SNAP benefits?

The child support you receive counts toward your income, according to SNAP. This means that child support payments may change your eligibility for SNAP benefits once it is added to other income you receive.

That is not to say you should not try to get child support if you are afraid your benefits will be affected. If you are worried about this, talk with your SNAP office or a lawyer to find out your best option.

If you are on the other side of the fence and are responsible for paying monthly child support, then your child support order can affect your ability to receive SNAP benefits. If you are behind on your child support payments, you may not get the benefits.

How do child support housing benefit work?

Housing benefits and child support can become tricky since each state has its own rules about both child support and housing benefits. In many states, you can’t collect both housing assistance and child support at the same time.

In many cases, if a guardian parent applies for housing benefits and includes a child in the application, the government will first look to see if there is any child support being paid for the child. If there is not, the state will open a child support case to have the noncustodial parent begin paying the child support owed.

From this point, the housing benefit will either be approved or denied. If approved, some states provide the housing benefits but only pay the child a minimum amount in child support instead of the amount a court may calculate. This amount can vary by state but will most likely be less than the monthly child support allowance the court may order. Many times this happens because the housing benefit amount will be much more than child support assistance.

On the flip side, the noncustodial parent is still responsible for paying their child support order (so it is kept up to date if, and when, the child moves off of housing assistance).

When it comes to housing benefits and child support, there are a lot of options to be weighed such as immediate housing needs. In this instance, it may be best to consult a caseworker or local assistance agency to see what option may be best – especially in a housing emergency.

How do I increase child support benefits?

The economy will always be fluctuating and inflation can play a role in our lives, including on child support. In the lifetime of your child, just as you have seen in your life, the cost of food, clothing, rent, medical care and education will continue to rise. This means your child support should match the current cost of living.

What once may have been enough to support your child’s day-to-day needs now just isn’t enough to cover the current the economy, a move to another area or a change of schools.

This will mean another visit to the courts to have the child support reexamined for an adjustment. This will likely come with some discussion of what the costs are and proof that they have risen. From here it will be up to the judge to determine if and how much the support benefits can be raised.

What happens if I overpay child support?

Overpayment of child support is extremely tricky no matter where you live. There are many factors that can cause your overpayment to be considered a “gift” that you can never get back. When it comes to child support, it is best to tell the court about any changes that have happened that could affect the amount you would be required to pay. These changes can include changes in your employment status, increases or decreases in your salary, marriage or divorce, support of another child, or even changed custody on the supported child.

Any of these examples could drastically affect the payment requirement of your child support. Letting the courts know as soon as possible when one of these changes occurs can help you avoid any overpayments and the headaches that come with trying to get your lost money back.

Child support benefit calculators by state

If you are wondering how much your monthly child support payment may be there are many resources available to help you determine this. By simply searching “child support calculator” and the name of your state, you will find many sites available. Be sure to keep a few things in mind here:

• These calculators can only estimate your monthly support amount based on the information you provide and your state’s laws. The final amount will be decided by the courts.
• You will want to use the state your child resides in, as this is the state the child support order will originate, and thus follow that state’s rules of child support.
• These calculators often only calculate monthly child support, not back pay child support.
• Not every state has a calculator.

If you are interested in finding out the possible child support garnishments to your paycheck there is a list below with links to each state’s calculators or calculation protocols. Again, these are just estimates and only a judge and determine the final amount to be paid:

• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Montana
• New Hampshire
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Thanks for reading. As an employment agency, we’ve worked with our share of Teammates and their child support, so we know it can be a confusing process. We hope this post has answered some of your questions. If you’re interested in finding a job with us, call your local Ōnin Staffing to get started. 

This article is not intended to serve as legal advice. When considering your child support options, you should seek the advice of legal counsel. 

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