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1St Class Structural Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

Encinitas, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

Escondido, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

Jamul, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience * Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation ...

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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.
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:
What states have the most 1St Class Structural Welder jobs? States with the most job openings for 1St Class Structural Welder jobs include:
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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.
A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

Austal USA

Spring Valley, CA • On-site

$40.86/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Austal USA rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 36 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Reports To
Fabrication Supervisor
Authorities / Responsibilities
  • Working in compliance with all safety, quality, environmental and health requirements, weld a variety of aluminum and/or steel configurations including, but not limited to:
    • Single-pass and multi-pass fillets in all positions, for all joint and material thickness configurations
    • Multi-pass full penetration joint details, for all joint and material thickness configurations
  • May instruct and mentor less-skilled welders, as assigned
  • Works with a sense of urgency, efficiency and productive out put
  • Maintains safe work practices and adheres to safety policies and procedures
  • Ensure correct construction procedures are adhered to in compliance with Austal USA standards and project specifications
  • Ability to work shifts or overtime as required, must be flexible
  • Maintain housekeeping, keep worksite free of rubbish, keep materials and equipment stowed in an orderly manner
  • Capable of keeping waste of consumables and material to an absolute minimum
  • Accountable for completion of daily work assignments including the completion and signatures for work completion and quality
  • Assists Welders, Fitters, Apprentices, and Trades Assistants with daily tasks as directed
  • Assists or work with other trades or Austal USA employees as directed (May be assigned tasks outside craft as required)
  • Monitors working environment for compliance with quality, safety, environmental and health regulations and report deficiencies to supervisor
  • Must comply with the Austal USA's "Equal Opportunity and Anti-Harassment Policy" which expects that all relationships among persons in the workplace will be professional and free of bias, prejudice, and harassment
  • Must comply with the Austal USA's Employee Handbook

Qualifications / Knowledge / Experience
  • Minimum of 1 year as a B-Class Welder at Austal producing advance fillet welds or 2 years of GMAW MIG aluminum welding and/or 2 years FCAW/GMAW steel welding experience at a comparable employer
    • Completion of an Austal USA approved additional, or accelerated Structural Welding training course may also count towards additional required experience
  • Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ARC gouging processes.
  • Ability to successfully complete onboarding procedures in preparation to pass AL CV weld qualification test requirements to meet contract requirements for A Class welding on the vessel, or Steel GMAW, FCAW-G, SMAW, or SMAW Groove weld qualification test requirements, to meet contract requirements for A Class Steel welding.
  • High level of pride in workmanship
  • Ability to weld in uncomfortable positions where applicable
  • Adhere to proper contract prepping, (Including paint removal in way of any weld).
  • Demonstrated ability to weld fillets for material thicknesses 4mm- 25mm
  • Demonstrated ability to weld gusset toe and wraps with minimal blending required.
  • Demonstrated ability to weld frame wraps and terminations with minimal blending required.
  • Demonstrated ability to weld T-Bar wraps and terminations with minimal blending required.
  • Demonstrated ability to weld into corners / vertical intersections with minimal blending required
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate and correct basic weld pick up, with minimal supervision
  • Demonstrated ability to terminate stich welds with minimal weld correction to address minor cosmetic or weld defects
  • Demonstrated ability to weld continuously for 400mm
  • Demonstrated ability to back step and sequence weld based upon provided information and/or good welding practices
  • Demonstrated ability to weld multi-pass fillets with only cosmetic correction required
  • Monitor steel preheat, inner pass temps, heat input, and ensure that all are within the parameters of the applicable steel welding procedure.
  • Monitor steel heat distortion and apply appropriate changes to counteract.
  • Ability to take direction and follow instructions
  • Good mechanical aptitude with ability to produce consistent quality
  • Ability to inspect and correct basic weld pick-up without supervision
  • Good listening and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Problem-solving and trouble-shooting skills
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination; good spatial orientation
  • Ability to consistently meet production deadlines
  • Ability to read and interpret and work from construction drawings, job specifications, instruction manuals, manufacturer's handbooks, change orders and contract specifications to obtain weld sizing information and material edge preparation requirements
  • Ability and willingness to work with and to teach less-skilled workers
  • Ability to maintain and perform routine preventive maintenance on welding equipment
  • Ability to wear required PPE
  • Ability to work any shift or overtime as required by management, schedule must be flexible

Additional Guidelines
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain required Security Clearance.
  • Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:
  • 18 years of age or older at time of application
  • Able to provide proof of US Person Status
  • No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date
  • No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date
  • Willing to submit to a drug screen
  • Willing to submit to a background check

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to tour all vessels and work sites.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit.
Specific physical requirements include the following:
  • Must have the ability to bend, squat, stoop, crawl, and kneel.
  • Perform prolonged standing.
  • Ability to turn head from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Ability to turn body at the waist from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Lift/push/pull 50lbs to 75lbs on an occasional basis.
  • Lift/push/pull up to 20lbs on a frequent basis.
  • Must have the ability to climb in a safe manner (climbing as a minimum includes stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and ramps).
  • Ability to work at heights above 12' while working from ladders, scaffolding and/or man lifts.
  • Able to work at a variety of levels (ex. waist, eye, overhead).
  • Demonstrate the ability to safely and appropriately use required tools and equipment.
  • Demonstrate good balance while working on uneven surfaces and maneuvering obstacles.
  • Possess sufficient handgrip and coordination to carry and operate tools and equipment.
  • Ability to utilize personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toes shoes, goggles, respirator, safety harness, safety line, flotation gear, etc.) safely per OSHA standards.
  • Ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures.
  • Ability to enter 18" x 36" openings and work in confined spaces for prolonged periods of time.
  • Able to respond to verbal and audible sounds/commands.
  • Able to utilize adequate visual skills.
  • Ability to fully extend the arm while reaching overhead, reaching out, reaching to the side and reaching down.
  • Ability to perceive attributes of an object/material such as size, shape, temperature and texture by means of receptors in the hands and fingers.

Tools
  • Milling discs, saws, sanders, grinders, burr motors, band saws, skill saws, saws-all, cutting torches, arc gougers, plate magnets, general fitting aids, weld machine and applicable components etc.

Liaises With
  • Supervisor, step-up supervisor, foreman and other tradesmen

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters whole performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, outside weather conditions, and extreme heat. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes and/or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.
Safety
Must comply with company, federal, state, and local safety and environmental rules and regulations while performing daily job tasks.
Compensation: $40.86 per hour
Equal Employment Commitment
Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.
Austal's commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.

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