That's what welfare is, provide a living to those unable to compete otherwise.

But the job does actually need to be done. They're just not paying enough to consistently attract and keep people who can do it well. What can't compete is the pay.

That doesn't make it welfare.

So all jobs that pay below market rate are "welfare"?

I don't think that makes sense.

Exactly this. The ratio of equipment to staff is usually very high, the equipment is usually very old, demands are sometimes complex, and pay is governed by a formula developed for white collar workers without better options. The good ones normally leave after one year.