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Apprentice Pipeline Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welder

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

... water pipeline projects. We offer competitive wages, 401(k)s, a generous health plan, and ... relevant apprenticeship program is required * Professional Certification (e.g. an AWS welding ...

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Apprentice Pipeline Welding information

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$9

$19

$26

How much do apprentice pipeline welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice pipeline welding in the United States is $19.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Pipeline Welding vs Pipeline Welder?

AspectApprentice Pipeline WeldingPipeline Welder
CertificationsBasic welding certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced welding certifications, often including API or ASME
Work EnvironmentSupervised training sites, construction projectsActive pipeline construction sites, field welding
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning phaseExperienced, skilled tradesperson

Apprentice Pipeline Welders are in training, focusing on developing skills under supervision, while Pipeline Welders are fully qualified professionals performing welding tasks independently on pipeline projects. The main difference lies in experience, certifications, and job responsibilities.

How much do beginner pipe welders make?

Beginner pipe welders, including apprentice pipeline welders, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on location and employer. As they gain experience and certifications, their pay can increase significantly, with skilled welders earning $30 or more per hour.

What is an Apprentice Pipeline Welder?

An Apprentice Pipeline Welder is an entry-level worker who is learning to join and repair pipes used in transporting oil, gas, and other substances through welding techniques. Under the supervision of experienced welders, apprentices are trained in safety protocols, welding methods, and the use of specialized tools. This role is part of a structured apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to develop the skills and certifications needed for a career in pipeline welding.

How much does an apprentice welder get?

An apprentice pipeline welder typically earns between $15 and $20 per hour, with wages increasing as skills and experience develop. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training, certifications, and may work full-time or part-time schedules during their training period.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Apprentice pipeline welders typically do not earn $300,000 annually; this level of income is usually achieved by experienced welders working in high-paying industries such as oil and gas or construction, often with specialized skills and certifications. Entry-level apprentices generally earn lower wages during training and early employment stages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Pipeline Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Pipeline Welder, you need a solid understanding of welding fundamentals, safety standards, and basic blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or GED and enrollment in an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with welding tools, such as arc welders and cutting torches, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training or entry-level welding certificates, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a willingness to learn from experienced welders are important soft skills. These competencies ensure high-quality, safe pipeline construction and maintenance while supporting career growth in a demanding industry.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice pipeline welders, and how can they be overcome?

Apprentice pipeline welders often encounter challenges such as adapting to varied work environments, mastering precise welding techniques under strict safety standards, and working long hours in remote locations. To overcome these challenges, apprentices should actively seek feedback from experienced welders, consistently practice their skills, and maintain a strong focus on safety protocols. Building strong teamwork and communication skills is also crucial, as pipeline projects typically require close coordination with other trades and supervisors.
More about Apprentice Pipeline Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Pipeline Welding jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Pipeline Welding job openings:
What states have the most Apprentice Pipeline Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Pipeline Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Pipeline Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Pipeline Welding jobs are:

PIPELINE WELDER/LAYOUT FITTER

City of Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$36.08 - $49.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Salary: $36.08 - $49.03 Hourly
Location : City of Long Beach, CA
Job Type: Classified - Full-Time, Permanent
Job Number: I61NN-26
Department: Long Beach Utilities - (CL)
Opening Date: 06/23/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
DESCRIPTION
Applications are available online beginning Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Filing will remain open until vacancies are filled. Filing may close without further notice.
Salary Information:
$36.083 - $49.034 (Hourly)
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
Under supervision, performs specialized welds on gas and water mains using arc and oxyacetylene processes. Also performs a variety of welding assignments using heliarc and brazing processes. Performs position and overhead welds and layout on pipe fittings, tie-ins, and branch connections; repairs and installs parts for equipment, machinery, piping, tools, and other metal objects in accordance with appropriate industry standards; does cutting, fitting and brazing; makes polyethylene fusions; makes both oxyacetylene and electric welds of all types under difficult conditions (e.g., in excavations, under emergency time limits, on high stress/tension pipes, etc.); works in or near the presence of "live" natural gas performing work which may permit gas to escape; maintains and adjusts welding equipment for gas and electric welding equipment. Interprets and works from engineering drawings; observes and enforces safety rules and regulations; drives department vehicles; performs other related duties as required.
REQUIREMENTS TO FILE
Applicants must meet options A or B:
  1. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Section 9 and/or American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 certification (proof required)* AND two years of experience welding pipelines that must include Pipe Fitter experience.
    OR

  1. Certificate of Completion from a Pipe Fitter program, related coursework, or apprenticeship (proof required)* AND two years of experience welding pipelines.

  • A valid motor vehicle operator's license.

Required to complete the Department of Transportation oxyacetylene and S.M.A.W. (shielded metal arc welding) certifications and the Long Beach Utilities polyethylene plastic pipe joining fusion certification prior to passing probation and re-certify annually.
Required to comply with the Anti-Drug and Alcohol Program as required by the Federal Department of Transportation regulations on an ongoing basis and with the Long Beach Utilities Department Operator Qualification Program based on department standards and maintained on an ongoing basis.
Willingness to work weekends, nights, holidays and overtime as required.
Willingness to respond to emergency calls on a 24-hour basis.
*Proof of required documents, such as degree, transcripts, and or certificates/licenses, must be uploaded to the online application at the time of filing. Any proofs submitted must contain either the applicant's name or other identifying characteristics on the form. Degrees must indicate the field of study and transcripts must indicate a field of study and degree conferred date. Candidates who possess degrees from colleges or universities outside the United States must attach proof of educational equivalence at the time of filing.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABLILITIES:
  • Skilled in performing a variety of welding or pipe-joining techniques;
  • Skilled in utilizing various electric powered grinders, saws, and hand tools;
  • Skilled in performing pipeline layout;
  • Ability to work in strenuous conditions;
  • Ability to interpret and work from engineering drawings;
  • Ability to apply occupational hazards and safety regulations, policies, and procedures to enforce a safe work environment.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
  • City of Los Angeles structural steel license.
  • SoCalGas high stress certification (Blue Card)

SELECTION PROCEDURE
Application and Supplemental Application....................................... Qualifying
Performance Examination...................................................................... Qualifying
During the performance test, applicants must perform two welds, which will be inspected and tested. Information regarding the welds is listed below:
1. Twelve-inch butt weld with SMAW, 5G Position.
2. Twelve-inch saddle weld/arc, 6010-root with a 7018-fill layout and cut, fit, and weld 12" on 12" branch saddle connection required by procedure.
Screening of applicants will be conducted on the basis of applications and required supplemental applications submitted. This is a continuous eligible list, which means eligible lists may be established periodically and may expire six months from their effective date. Applicants may apply only once during a four-month period. Qualifying applications received by July 23, 2026, will be invited to the first performance exam, tentatively scheduled for August 15, 2026. Based upon the number of applications received, the selection procedure may be changed. In the event a revision is necessary, all affected persons will be notified.
In accordance with Civil Service Procedure 3.38, all eligible veterans that successfully qualify on any or all open-competitive examinations shall receive an additional credit of ten (10) points that will be added to their original passing score. Disabled veterans passing the examination shall receive a credit of fifteen (15) points that will be added to their original passing score. (A copy of the veteran's DD-214, Member 4 form indicating honorable discharge must be attached to the application at the time of filing).
If you have not received notification within two weeks of close of filing, please contact the Human Resource Department at (562) 570-6202.
EQUITY AND INCLUSION
The City of Long Beach is committed to creating a workplace where every employee is valued for who they are. Having our workforce reflect the diversity of our community at various levels of the organization is a continuous goal embraced by our departments, management staff, and policymakers. To support efforts of fairness and diversity, City Leadership is committed to incorporating equity and inclusion into our work by supporting staff and community partners. We are committed to promoting transparency by publishing updated demographic information for employees, including workforce diversity data and pay by race and gender.
The City of Long Beach will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You are not required to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until you receive a conditional job offer. If the City of Long Beach has concerns about a conviction that is directly related to the job after making a conditional job offer and conducting a background check, you will have the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide evidence to mitigate concerns, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Act by visiting
This position is eligible for Local Hiring Preferences and Veterans Preference Points. Learn more about available preferences and eligibility criteria here:
In support of the City's Language Access Policy, bilingual skills (Spanish, Khmer and/or Tagalog) are desirable for some positions interacting with the public.
This information is available in an alternative format by request at (562) 570- 6202. If special accommodation is desired, please contact the Human Resources Department two (2) business days prior to the test at (562) 570- 6202. For the hearing impaired, call (562) 570-6638.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
J.O.B. I61NN-26 PWLF:FGV HR:06/23/2026
Employee Benefits
The City of Long Beach offers its employees opportunities to grow personally and professionally. As a permanent employee, you are eligible to receive fringe benefits that include:
Medical and Dental Insurance
Life Insurance
Retirement Plan (P.E.R.S.)
Paid Vacation, Personal Holidays and Sick Leave
Deferred Compensation
Credit Union Membership
Free Bus Transportation (Long Beach Transit)
Flexible Spending Accounts
Free Employee Parking
Paid Parental Leave*
*Paid Parental Leave - after six (6) months of City employment; up to 30 calendar days (160 hours/192 hours for sworn platoon) of PPL, taken in full-day increments, in connection with the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child, up to the age of seventeen (17).
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INSTRUCTIONS:The purpose of these supplemental questions is to derive more specific information about your qualifications for the position of Pipeline Welder/Layout Fitter. Applicants must clearly demonstrate their qualifying experience. These questions will serve as the basis for qualifying candidates for advancement into the selection process. Be specific and detailed in your responses. Certificates should be attached, but may not be substituted in lieu of the required application forms (i.e., responses should NOT state "see resume").Please be advised that failure to answer required questions will result in an incomplete application and will jeopardize your opportunity to be placed on the eligible list.The application and supplemental questionnaire and attachments must be completed and submitted by the filing deadline.Proof of any required documents must be uploaded to the online application. Please be advised that failure to provide the required documents will result in an incomplete application and will jeopardize your opportunity to be placed on the eligible list.If you require assistance, please call our customer service line at (562) 570-6202 during the filing period between the hours of 7:30 AM through 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday or email hr-talentacquisition@longbeach.gov and include Pipeline Welder/Layout Fitter in the subject line.Do you understand the instructions for completing and submitting the application and supplemental questionnaire for this job?
  • Yes

02
REQUIREMENTS TO FILE: Applicants must meet options A or B:A. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Section 9 and/or American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 certification (proof required)* AND two years of experience welding pipelines that must include Pipe Fitter experience. ORB. Certificate of Completion from a Pipe Fitter program, related coursework, or apprenticeship (proof required)* AND two years of experience welding pipelines.Please indicate how you meet the requirements to file for Pipeline Welder/Layout Fitter.
  • I currently possess an American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Section 9 and/or American Petroleum Institute (API) 1104 certification (proof required)* AND have two years of experience welding pipelines that must include Pipe Fitter experience.
  • I currently possess a Certificate of Completion from a Pipe Fitter program, related coursework, or apprenticeship (proof required)* AND two years of experience welding pipelines.
  • I do not have any of the above requirements. I understand that selecting this option will disqualify me from this process.

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QUALIFYING EXPERIENCE: If you selected Option A from the requirements to file, describe your experience welding pipelines that must include Pipe Fitter experience. Include the following: 1) Name of Employer(s); 2) Job Title; 3) Dates of employment; 4) Hours per week; 5) Job Duties. If you selected Option B, please type N/A and skip to the next question.
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If you selected Option B from the requirements to file, describe your experience welding pipelines. Include the following: 1) Name of Employer(s); 2) Job Title; 3) Dates of employment; 4) Hours per week; 5) Job Duties. If you selected Option A, please type N/A and skip to the next question.
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Are you willing to work weekends, nights, holidays and overtime as required?
  • Yes
  • No

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Are you available to respond to emergency calls on a 24-hour basis?
  • Yes
  • No

07
A valid motor vehicle operator's license and a current DMV driving record is required and must be submitted to the hiring department at the time of selection.Do you understand the statement above?
  • Yes
  • No

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If appointed, candidates will be required to complete the Department of Transportation oxyacetylene and S.M.A.W. (shielded metal arc welding) certifications and the Long Beach Utilities polyethylene plastic pipe joining fusion certification prior to passing probation and re-certify annually. Do you understand the statement listed above?
  • Yes
  • No

09
If appointed, candidates will be required to comply with the following below:Comply with the Anti-Drug and Alcohol Program as required by the Federal Department of Transportation regulations on an ongoing basis and with the Long Beach Utilities Department Operator Qualification Program based on department standards and maintained on an ongoing basis.Do you understand the statements above?
  • Yes
  • No

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DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONSCheck below if you have the following desirable qualifications. You can select more than one qualification. If you do not have any of these desirable qualifications, choose the last option (selecting this option does not disqualify you from the exam process).
  • City of Los Angeles structural steel license.
  • SoCalGas high stress certification (Blue Card)
  • I do not have any of these desirable qualifications. Selecting this will not disqualify me from the position.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Do you have any relatives employed by the City of Long Beach?
  • Yes
  • No

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