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Entry Level Pipe Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PIPE WELDER - ENTRY LEVEL

Pascagoula, MS · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Types of metal materials with a variety of welding processes; the most basic of which are, Shielded ... Pipe Welder HA must have graduated from a pipe welder program at a vo-tech school or other training ...

Pipe Tubing Welder

Walterboro, SC · On-site

$22 - $27.25/hr

Five years welding experience - required * Experience with rigging is helpful. Knowledge, Skills ... * Entry level planning / organizing (Ability to plan a daily work schedule and communicate the ...

Pipe Tubing Welder

Walterboro, SC · On-site

$22 - $27.25/hr

Five years welding experience - required * Experience with rigging is helpful. Knowledge, Skills ... * Entry level planning / organizing (Ability to plan a daily work schedule and communicate the ...

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Follow all safety protocols and compliance requirements Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in pipe fitting and welding support * High school diploma or equivalent * Basic knowledge of ...

... from entry-level to expert. The welders will be responsible for working from shop drawing ... Capable of MIG and TIG welding of parts and pipe, but not yet certified with the company for ...

... from entry-level to expert. The welders will be responsible for working from shop drawing ... Capable of MIG and TIG welding of parts and pipe, but not yet certified with the company for ...

... from entry-level to expert. The welders will be responsible for working from shop drawing ... Capable of MIG and TIG welding of parts and pipe, but not yet certified with the company for ...

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Entry Level Pipe Welding information

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$14

$27

$35

How much do entry level pipe welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level pipe welding in the United States is $27.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level pipe welders, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level pipe welders often encounter challenges such as adapting to various welding positions, working in confined or awkward spaces, and mastering precise welds to meet quality standards. To overcome these obstacles, new welders benefit from hands-on practice, mentorship from experienced team members, and continuous learning about different welding techniques and safety protocols. Building strong communication skills is also important, as pipe welders frequently collaborate with fitters, supervisors, and inspectors to ensure project specifications are met.

How much do entry-level pipeline welders make?

Entry-level pipeline welders typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, union membership, and certifications. Starting salaries can increase with experience, specialized skills, and the ability to work in remote or hazardous environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Pipe Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Pipe Welder, you need a basic understanding of welding techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, typically supported by a high school diploma or welding certification. Familiarity with tools such as MIG, TIG, and arc welders, as well as knowledge of OSHA safety standards, is important. Attention to detail, a strong work ethic, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate, safe, and efficient pipe welding, which is critical for the integrity and reliability of piping systems.

How much experience do you need to be a pipeline welder?

Entry level pipe welders typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should complete a welding training program or apprenticeship, which can last from several months to a year. Employers often require candidates to have basic welding skills, certification in pipe welding codes such as ASME or API, and familiarity with welding tools and safety procedures.

Can you get a job as a welder with no experience?

Entry level pipe welding jobs often do not require prior experience, but employers typically look for relevant skills, such as knowledge of welding techniques and safety procedures. Completing a welding training program or certification can improve job prospects, and on-the-job training is common for beginners. Having a strong work ethic and willingness to learn are important for starting a welding career without experience.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pipe Welding vs Entry Level Pipe Fitting?

AspectEntry Level Pipe WeldingEntry Level Pipe Fitting
Required CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)Basic plumbing or pipefitting certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, fabrication shopsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, maintenance
Industry UsageHeavy industry, manufacturing, energyConstruction, maintenance, industrial piping
Common Search IntentEntry Level Pipe Welding vs Entry Level Pipe FittingEntry Level Pipe Fitting vs Entry Level Pipe Welding

While both roles involve working with pipes, entry level pipe welding focuses on joining pipes through welding techniques, requiring welding certifications. Entry level pipe fitting involves assembling and installing piping systems, often requiring plumbing or fitting certifications. Both jobs are found in industrial and construction environments, but welding emphasizes metal joining, whereas fitting emphasizes pipe assembly and installation.

What are entry level pipe welders?

Entry level pipe welders are skilled tradespeople who join and repair pipes using welding techniques, typically at the beginning stages of their careers. They work under the supervision of experienced welders to learn the basics of pipe welding, such as reading blueprints, setting up equipment, and following safety protocols. These positions are often found in industries like construction, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Entry level pipe welders usually need a high school diploma or GED and may have completed a welding training program or apprenticeship.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Entry level pipe welding jobs can pay around $50 an hour, especially for those with certifications, strong skills, and experience working with specialized materials or in demanding environments. Higher wages are often associated with overtime, union positions, or working in remote or hazardous locations.
More about Entry Level Pipe Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Pipe Welding jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Pipe Welding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pipe Welding jobs? The most popular types of Pipe Welding jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Pipe Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Pipe Welding jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Pipe Welding job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,707 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Pipefitter Trainee (Bootcamp) (Houma/Lockport)

Bollinger Shipyards

Houma, LA

$24.50 - $31.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Bollinger Shipyards rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Title: Pipefitter Trainee (Bootcamp)
Location: Lockport/Houma, LA
Position Overview: A Pipefitter Trainee learns the necessary skills to become an entry level Pipefitter.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Learns to tack, weld, and assist Pipe Fitters.
  • Becomes familiar with basic welding and/or fitting processes.
  • Develops a basic working knowledge of shipbuilding operations and job-related tools.
  • Learns stick, short arc, flux core, aluminum tack-welding skills.
  • Gains insight on providing Pipe Welder with assistance and on providing fire watch duties.
  • Learns to use levels, squares, chipping hammer, grinders, tape measures, and other basic tools such as a torch.
  • Must follow all Company policies and procedures, including those relative to employee safety, environmental policy, and the principles of our quality system.
  • Other duties assigned or requested by management.
  • Works overtime as required.
  • Reports to work daily and on time.

Qualifications:
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalency (i.e. General Education Diploma).
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Hands-on experience using hand tools and/or welding equipment is a plus.

Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to work outdoors.
  • Must be able to work in confined/enclosed spaces.
  • Must be able to work/climb in elevations greater than 5'.
  • Must be able to wear/work a respirator when applicable.
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, and climb.
  • Must have good math skills.

Bollinger is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to minorities, females, veterans and disabled individuals, and without regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.

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