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2Nd Class Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder - Hiring Now

Carrollton, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

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 - Manufacturing

Hampton, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Hampton, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Showing results 41-60

2Nd Class Welder information

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

As of Aug 14, 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.

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 is a 2nd class welder?

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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Welder - Hiring Now

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Carrollton, VA • On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

2nd Class Welder - Steel America
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ship components and structures within the shipyard and heavy industrial environments. This role requires extensive experience in multiple welding techniques, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform welding tasks using various techniques such as stick welding, flux core, and carbon arc welding on different metals, including steel and aluminum.
  • Prepare materials and surfaces for welding by cleaning, grinding, and pre-heating as necessary.
  • Ensure all welds meet industry standards and project specifications through visual inspections and non-destructive testing methods.
  • Repair damaged or defective welds and perform routine maintenance on welding equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
  • Identify and resolve welding-related issues on the job site, ensuring high-quality and effective solutions.
  • Assist in laying out workpieces based on measurements and technical drawings.
  • Perform post-weld finishing tasks, including grinding and smoothing weld seams.
  • Work effectively as part of a team, supporting senior technicians and coordinating with other trades to ensure timely project completion.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must have at least 3 years of experience welding, in a marine or shipyard environment, or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
  • Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in multiple welding techniques and a strong understanding of welding procedures and safety standards.
  • Must be proficient in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation.
  • Must be able to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
  • Must be proficient in Stick Welding (SMAW) and Flux Core Welding (FCAW) techniques in the horizontal, vertical and overhead positions.

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Previous technical training highly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications in welding, such as AWS (American Welding Society), or equivalent, are preferred.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Pay Range: $24.15 - $30.55
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).