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1St Class Structural Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

B&D Contracting

1st class Structural Fitter

Saint Bernard, LA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Strong understanding of weld symbols and fabrication tolerances * Reliable attendance and strong ... Are you able to pass a 1st Class Structural Fitter hands-on craft test? * Describe your experience ...

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Venture Dynamics Gulf Inc

Structural Welder

Mobile, AL · On-site

$70K/yr

Venture Dynamics Gulf, Inc. a local Mobile, AL contractor is currently hiring 1st class structural welders for a long term new construction project in Mobile, AL. * Must have 4+ years of FCAW welding ...

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

1st Class Structural Welder - Steel America Purpose: Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, is seeking a 1st Class Structural Welder to support operations in the Inside Machine Shop at our ...

Aerotek

Per Diem Structural Welder

Jacksonville, FL

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Approximately four years of experience in a naval shipyard or similar environment as a first-class structural welder. * Proficiency in SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) for multi-pass, all-position ...

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Ameri-Force

Structural Welder 1st Class

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

In the sequence of work activities, the welder's job follows that of the fitters, welding together structural components that have previously been fit and tacked into place. Major Duties ...

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Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder

Mobile, AL · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

Structural Supervisor SUPERVISES: None, but may instruct less-skilled workers PURPOSE & SCOPE: The ... Minimum of 1 year as a B-Class Welder at Austal producing advance fillet welds or 2 years of GMAW ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder

Mobile, AL

$21.25 - $28/hr

Structural Supervisor SUPERVISES: None, but may instruct less-skilled workers PURPOSE & SCOPE: The ... Minimum of 1 year as a B-Class Welder at Austal producing advance fillet welds or 2 years of GMAW ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder

Mobile, AL · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Structural Supervisor SUPERVISES: None, but may instruct less-skilled workers PURPOSE & SCOPE: The ... Minimum of 1 year as a B-Class Welder at Austal producing advance fillet welds or 2 years of GMAW ...

Austal USA LLC

A Class Structural Welder

Mobile, AL

$21.25 - $28/hr

Structural Supervisor SUPERVISES: None, but may instruct less-skilled workers PURPOSE & SCOPE: The ... Minimum of 1 year as a B-Class Welder at Austal producing advance fillet welds or 2 years of GMAW ...

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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 Jul 6, 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.
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1St Class Structural Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Class Structural Welder job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,730 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
1st Class Structural Welders

1st Class Structural Welders

Chipton Ross

Pascagoula, MS • On-site

$38/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Description
Job #218422
Chipton-Ross is seeking multiple 1st Class Structural Welders for a contract opportunity in Pascagoula, MS.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE)
  • Minimum 3 Yrs. Welding experience in FCAW and SWAW.
  • Ability to pass a military specification welding assessment in the vertical (3G), horizontal (2G) and overhead (4G) positions.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Welder is responsible for the joining together of different types of metal materials with a variety of welding processes; the most basic of which are, Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) also known as "stick welding" and Flux-Core Arc Welding (FCAW) also known as "wire welding." The shipyard environment is an around the clock manufacturing setting. The shipyard production areas at times involve working at different heights, confined spaces, different weather conditions as well as multiple shifts 24 hours a day. As with most every position in the shipyard, a Welder may be required to work either day or night dependent upon the number of ships under construction at any one point in time. The shipyard stresses the practice of working safely in all situations with safety procedures meeting, and most times, exceeding industry standards. Must have the ability to pass a military specification welding assessment in the vertical (3G), horizontal (2G) and overhead (4G) positions.
REQUIRED EDUCATION
Accredited High School diploma or equivalent.
WORK HOURS
5/40, workweek.
1st, 2nd, 3rd shift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Employment will be contingent on clearing a drug screen and background check. Both must clear prior to start date.
  • Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

For more information, please apply or contact:
Kristie Hardage 800.927.9318 x251
khardage@chiptonross.com
Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.
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About Chipton-Ross

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chipton-Ross, based in El Segundo, California, is a leading provider of staffing and recruitment services in the US. The company is renowned for its specialization in fields like engineering, information technology, aircraft manufacturing, and other technical industries. Founded in 1983, Chipton-Ross has grown to become a recognized name in the national recruitment arena with a reputation for integrity, quality, and excellence in management. The company's mission is to provide cost-effective staffing solutions that allow their clients to maximize the power of their people, enhancing both perspective and productivity.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

El Segundo, CA, US

Year founded

1983

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