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2Nd Class Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Welder - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Welder - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Welder 2nd- 3rd Class

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

... welding various structures and materials. * Perform all other duties as assigned. * Able to ... steel plate qualified. * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing ...

Welder 1st Class

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $25.75/hr

... * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing qualification, plus 1 additional SMAW certification (not carbon steel) and 1 additional FCAW plate certification (not carbon steel ...

Welder 1st Class

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

... * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing qualification, plus 1 additional SMAW certification (not carbon steel) and 1 additional FCAW plate certification (not carbon steel ...

... 2nd Class is responsible for positioning and securing various types and sizes of steel parts and ... Experience reading, understanding and adhering to established weld and production procedures.

... 2nd Class is responsible for positioning and securing various types and sizes of steel parts and ... Experience reading, understanding and adhering to established weld and production procedures.

Welder

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

... * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing qualification, plus 1 additional SMAW certification (not carbon steel) and 1 additional FCAW plate certification (not carbon steel ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Cameron, TX

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Welder - Submarine Building

Cameron, TX

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

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2Nd Class Welder information

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How much do 2nd class welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for 2nd class welder in the United States is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Why do welders age so fast?

Welders, including 2nd Class Welders, often age faster due to exposure to hazardous fumes, intense heat, and ultraviolet radiation from welding processes. Repeated exposure to these elements can cause skin damage, respiratory issues, and other health problems, especially if proper protective gear and safety protocols are not consistently used.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A 2nd Class Welder can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries such as oil and gas or construction. Achieving this income often requires certifications, overtime, and working in remote or hazardous environments. Such roles typically demand strong technical skills and adherence to safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 2nd Class Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 2nd Class Welder, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, blueprint reading, and relevant safety protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and formal welding training. Familiarity with welding equipment, such as MIG, TIG, and arc welders, as well as certifications like AWS or CWB, is often required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure precision and reliability in finished work. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing quality welds, maintaining safety standards, and meeting project specifications efficiently.

What are 2nd Class Welders?

2nd Class Welders are skilled tradespeople who perform welding tasks at an intermediate level, typically under the supervision of more experienced welders. They are responsible for joining metal parts using various welding techniques, such as arc or gas welding, according to specified procedures and safety standards. 2nd Class Welders often work on less complex or lower-risk projects compared to 1st Class Welders, but still play a critical role in fabrication and repair. Their duties may include preparing materials, operating welding equipment, and ensuring weld quality through visual inspection. Advancement to higher welding classifications typically requires additional experience, training, and certification.

Can you make $100,000 as a welder?

2nd Class Welders can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries like oil and gas or construction. Earnings vary based on location, overtime, and the complexity of projects, with some welders reaching six-figure incomes through overtime and advanced qualifications.

Why do welders drink milk after welding?

Welders, including 2nd Class Welders, often drink milk after welding to help neutralize the effects of inhaling metal fumes and to soothe the stomach, as welding fumes can cause irritation. Milk contains proteins that can bind to certain toxins and may provide some relief from minor gastrointestinal discomfort caused by exposure to welding fumes. However, it is not a substitute for proper safety measures such as wearing respirators and working in well-ventilated areas.

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

Aspect2Nd Class Welder1St Class Welder
CertificationsTypically requires a 2nd Class Welding CertificateRequires a 1st Class Welding Certificate
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, construction, manufacturingIndustrial, construction, manufacturing
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforming standard welding tasks, basic quality controlPerforming advanced welding tasks, quality assurance

The main difference between a 2Nd Class Welder and a 1St Class Welder lies in certification level and skill complexity. A 1St Class Welder has higher certification and handles more complex welding tasks, while a 2Nd Class Welder performs standard welding duties with a lower certification requirement.

What are some common challenges faced by 2nd Class Welders on the job?

2nd Class Welders often encounter challenges such as working in tight or awkward spaces, managing different welding techniques for various materials, and ensuring consistent weld quality under time constraints. They may also need to interpret technical drawings and adapt to changing project requirements quickly. In addition, collaborating effectively with other tradespeople and adhering to strict safety standards are essential aspects of the role that can present daily challenges.
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What job categories do people searching 2Nd Class Welder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 2Nd Class Welder jobs are:
Infographic showing various 2Nd Class Welder job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, and 96% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Welder - 2nd Class

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

A Welder 2nd Class will operate appropriate equipment to assemble parts with a great deal of precision. A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working knowledge of the different welding processes.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Promote and adhere to the Core Values and Behavior Code.
  • Capable of setting up and operating semi-automatic and fully automatic welding equipment.
  • Ability to weld in various positions ? flat, vertical and horizontal.
  • Proficient in operating welding related equipment such as positioners, jig fixtures, and cutting equipment.
  • Proven ability to read blueprints, drawings and specifications.
  • Experience reading, understanding and adhering to established weld procedures.
  • Determine the appropriate welding equipment and processes based on drawing requirements; plan welding sequence to maximize efficiency and control distortion.
  • Demonstrate proficiency and attain qualifications in four welding processes; SMAW, GMAW, SAW and FCAW. Must be able to pass a restricted accessibility test in the GTAW process.
  • Skilled in carbon arc cutting.
  • Ability to operate material handling equipment especially a jib hoist, a manlift and an overhead crane with supervision.
  • Ability to inspect welded surfaces to ensure welds meet the minimum size and visual acceptance criteria.
  • Follow proper material control procedures and record keeping.
  • Must be able to pass the BW Weld Symbol test with a score of 75% or above.
  • Responsible for achieving good speed of execution while maintaining quality workmanship.
  • Maintain work area, equipment and supplies in a neat and orderly condition.
  • Demonstrate and promote teamwork with team members at all levels in the organization to solve problems and improve processes.
  • Continually learn from team members and strive to develop personal and professional skills.
  • Required to wear appropriate PPE as required by job duties.
  • Promote company goals with a focus on Safety, Quality, and Production.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.