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1St Class Structural Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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1st Class Structural Welder

Mobile, AL ยท On-site

$30 - $34/hr

1st Class Marine Structural Welder Location: Mobile Al & Pascagoula MS Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Day Shift / Night Shift / Weekend Shift / Overtime Available Pay: $30 - $34 Position Summary We ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Pascagoula, MS ยท On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

The 1st Class Structural Welder is responsible for performing welding tasks to assemble and fabricate steel structures on marine vessels in accordance with shipyard specifications, blueprints, and ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Houma, LA ยท On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

The 1st Class Structural Welder is responsible for performing welding tasks to assemble and fabricate steel structures on marine vessels in accordance with shipyard specifications, blueprints, and ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Pascagoula, MS ยท On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

The 1st Class Structural Welder is responsible for performing welding tasks to assemble and fabricate steel structures on marine vessels in accordance with shipyard specifications, blueprints, and ...

1st Class Structural Welder

AL ยท On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The 1st Class Structural Welder will be pivotal in the construction and assembly of marine vessels and other structural components. This role will be contributing to ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Houma, LA ยท On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

The 1st Class Structural Welder is responsible for performing welding tasks to assemble and fabricate steel structures on marine vessels in accordance with shipyard specifications, blueprints, and ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Houma, LA

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

The 1st Class Structural Welder is responsible for performing welding tasks to assemble and fabricate steel structures on marine vessels in accordance with shipyard specifications, blueprints, and ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Norfolk, VA

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

We are currently hiring FIRST CLASS FLUXCORE STRUCTURAL WELDERS for Project in Panama City, Florida Shipyard. * NOTE this positions is open to U.S. Citizens only due to Government contract. Must pass ...

1st Class Structural Welder

Houma, LA

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

We are currently hiring FIRST CLASS FLUXCORE STRUCTURAL WELDERS for Project in Panama City, FL Shipyard. * NOTE this positions is open to U.S. Citizens only due to Government contract. Must pass ...

Structural Welder

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$23 - $29/hr

Position: 1st Class Structural Welder Job Location: Tampa, FL. Hutco Branch: Tampa, FL. Rate of Pay: $23 to $29 per hour and $120.00 Daily Per Diem for those who qualify DESCRIPTION: Currently ...

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1St Class Structural Welder information

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How much do 1st class structural welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for 1st class structural welder in the United States is $24.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st Class Structural Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Class Structural Welder, you need advanced welding skills, blueprint reading proficiency, and relevant certifications such as AWS or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like MIG, TIG, and stick welding equipment, as well as experience with various metals and welding safety systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure the integrity, safety, and efficiency of structural fabrication and installation projects.

What is the difference between 1St Class Structural Welder vs 2nd Class Structural Welder?

Aspect1St Class Structural Welder2nd Class Structural Welder
CertificationsTypically requires AWS or ASME certifications, including advanced welding testsRequires similar certifications but with less stringent testing or experience
Work EnvironmentWorks on complex, large-scale steel structures like bridges and high-rise buildingsWorks on smaller or less complex structures, often in maintenance or repair roles
Employer UsagePreferred for high-responsibility projects with strict quality standardsCommon in routine construction and repair projects

The main difference between a 1St Class Structural Welder and a 2nd Class Structural Welder lies in certification requirements, complexity of work, and project responsibility. 1St Class welders are qualified for more complex, high-stakes projects, while 2nd Class welders typically handle less complex tasks with fewer certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by a 1st Class Structural Welder on large construction projects?

1st Class Structural Welders often encounter challenges such as working in tight or elevated spaces, adhering to strict safety protocols, and maintaining high-quality welds under time constraints. Coordination with other trades, like fitters and riggers, is essential to ensure that all components align correctly before welding. Additionally, welders must adapt to varying weather conditions and work environments, especially when projects take place outdoors or in partially constructed buildings.

What are 1st Class Structural Welders?

1st Class Structural Welders are highly skilled tradespeople who specialize in welding and assembling structural components, such as beams, columns, and frameworks, for buildings, bridges, ships, and other large structures. They are typically responsible for interpreting blueprints, preparing metal surfaces, and performing precise welds that meet strict safety and quality standards. Their advanced expertise often includes proficiency in multiple welding methods, such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding, as well as a thorough understanding of metallurgy and structural codes. These welders play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of large-scale construction projects.
More about 1St Class Structural Welder jobs
What cities are hiring for 1St Class Structural Welder jobs? Cities with the most 1St Class Structural Welder job openings:
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What job categories do people searching 1St Class Structural Welder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 1St Class Structural Welder jobs are:
1st Class Structural Welder (FCAW)

1st Class Structural Welder (FCAW)

Bollinger Shipyards

Houma, LA โ€ข On-site

$19.75 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Bollinger Shipyards rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title:ย 1st Class Structural Welder

Location:ย Houma, LA

Position Overview:ย Aย 1st Class Structural Welderย specializing in FCAW 3G/4G Structural Welding is responsible for welding together structural metal components following blueprints, work orders, or oral instructions.

Key Responsibilities:

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย Obtains the appropriate tools needed for a particular job and subsequently sets up their equipment.

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย Binds together structural metal components that have been pre-assembled and tacked into place.

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย Performs good, cosmetic sound welds.

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย Examines his/her work and may chip off excess weld, slag, and splatter with the appropriate tools. (i.e., grinder, chipping hammer, etc.).

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย Leaves little or no rework when job is complete (i.e., cold rolls, pin holes, wraps, burn through, etc.).

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย Troubleshoots his/her equipment.

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย ย May gouge to remove a member, make a seam sound, remove weld reinforcement, etc.

Qualifications:

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย A minimum ofย 6 months of FCAW 3G/4G Structural welding experienceย is required.

Skills and Abilities:ย 

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย Must successfully pass aย hands-on welding testย that includes:

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย 3G position: Welded withย downhill progression.

ยทย ย ย ย ย ย ย 4G position: Welded entirely in the overhead position.

Bollinger is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities, females, veterans and disabled individuals, and without regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.