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First Class Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pipe Welder 1st Class Pay: $50.00 per hour Per Diem: None - Local Candidates Only Essential Qualifications, Duties, and Responsibilities * Read and interpret drawings and welding symbols. * Perform ...

Pipe Welder 1st Class

Mobile, AL

$25.75 - $31.75/hr

Pipe Welder 1st Class Pay: $38.00 $1,000 sign-on bonus Qualifications: * 3 - 5 years of experience as a Pipe Welding experience * Read and interpret basic drawings and weld symbols. * Pass weld test ...

1st Class Pipe Welder

Coden, AL

$24.25 - $30/hr

Description The 1st Class Pipe Welder will play a crucial role in the construction of ships and other marine vessels. This position will work to directly contribute to the integrity, safety, and ...

Pipe Welder

Groton, CT · On-site

$25.75 - $31.75/hr

Position Overview The First-Class Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding on a variety of materials and assemblies while meeting strict engineering specifications and safety ...

1st Class Pipe Welder

Coden, AL · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

The 1st Class Pipe Welder will play a crucial role in the construction of ships and other marine vessels. This position will work to directly contribute to the integrity, safety, and functionality of ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Groton, CT · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Position Overview The First-Class Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding on a variety of materials and assemblies while meeting strict engineering specifications and safety ...

New

1st Class Pipe Welder

Coden, AL · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

The 1st Class Pipe Welder will play a crucial role in the construction of ships and other marine vessels. This position will work to directly contribute to the integrity, safety, and functionality of ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Summary: A 1st Class welder is a highly skilled and experienced professional capable of performing complex welding, fabrication, and repair work with minimal supervision. Essential Duties and ...

1st Class Pipe Welder

AL · On-site

$24.25 - $30/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The 1st Class Pipe Welder will play a crucial role in the construction of ships and other marine vessels. This position will work to directly contribute to the ...

Pipe Welder 1st Class

Mobile, AL

$25.75 - $31.75/hr

Pipe Welder 1st Class Pay: $38.00 $1,000 sign-on bonus Qualifications: * 3 - 5 years of experience as a Pipe Welding experience * Read and interpret basic drawings and weld symbols. * Pass weld test ...

Pipe Welder

Groton, CT · On-site

$25.75 - $31.75/hr

Position Overview The First-Class Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding on a variety of materials and assemblies while meeting strict engineering specifications and safety ...

Pipe Welder

Groton, CT

$25.75 - $31.75/hr

Position Overview The First-Class Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding on a variety of materials and assemblies while meeting strict engineering specifications and safety ...

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First Class Welder information

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How much do first class welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for first 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 is a first class welder?

First Class Welders are highly skilled tradespeople who specialize in joining metal parts using various welding techniques such as arc, MIG, TIG, or gas welding. They are typically required to work on complex projects, read blueprints, and follow strict safety and quality standards. First Class Welders often have years of experience, advanced certifications, and are capable of handling both fabrication and repair tasks in industries like construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Their expertise ensures strong, precise, and durable welds on critical structures and equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first class welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Class Welder, you need advanced welding skills, deep knowledge of welding techniques and materials, and typically a welding certification such as AWS or equivalent. Familiarity with technical drawings, welding codes, and equipment like MIG, TIG, and arc welding machines is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills that set top welders apart. These skills and qualifications ensure precision, safety, and high-quality work in demanding industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by first class welders on large construction projects, and how can they overcome them?

First Class Welders working on large construction sites often face challenges such as working in confined spaces, extreme weather conditions, and maintaining high-quality welds under tight deadlines. To overcome these, it is important to stay up-to-date with safety protocols, communicate clearly with supervisors and team members, and consistently inspect equipment for optimal performance. Developing good time management skills and adaptability can also help welders handle changing project requirements and collaborate effectively with other trades on site.

What is the difference between First Class Welder vs Certified Welder?

AspectFirst Class WelderCertified Welder
CredentialsTypically requires a first class welding certification or licenseRequires AWS or other recognized welding certification
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, construction, manufacturing sitesVaries; industrial, maintenance, fabrication
Industry UsageCommon in heavy industry, shipbuilding, pipelineWidespread across multiple industries including manufacturing and repair

While both First Class Welders and Certified Welders possess advanced welding skills, First Class Welders often hold specific licenses for high-level tasks, especially in heavy industry. Certified Welders have recognized certifications that validate their skills across various sectors. The main difference lies in certification scope and job requirements, but both roles are essential in industrial and construction projects.

More about First Class Welder jobs

What cities are hiring for First Class Welder jobs?

Cities with the most First Class Welder job openings:

What states have the most First Class Welder jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Class Welder jobs include:

What job categories do people searching First Class Welder jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for First Class Welder jobs are:

Infographic showing various First Class Welder job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Pipe Welder 1st Class

Ameri-Force

Mobile, AL

$50/hr

Per diem, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Pipe Welder 1st Class
Pay: $50.00 per hour
Per Diem: None – Local Candidates Only
Essential Qualifications, Duties, and Responsibilities
  • Read and interpret drawings and welding symbols.
  • Perform stainless-steel pipe welding, including restricted open-root welds.
  • Inspect completed welds and correct any quality issues.
  • Follow all safety, quality, and housekeeping procedures.
  • Maintain personal tools and keep the work area clean.
  • Meet production goals and work effectively as part of a team.
  • Be available to work overtime as needed.
Employment Requirements
  • Must successfully pass a lifetime background check.
  • Must complete the stainless-steel portion of the pipe welder test as an evaluation of welding ability.
  • Must be available to work day or night shift as needed.
  • Must successfully complete all required pre-employment and onboarding requirements.
Education and Experience
  • Minimum of five years of Pipe Welder 1st Class experience.
  • Previous shipyard or comparable marine pipe welding experience required.
  • Must successfully complete the stainless-steel pipe welding evaluation.
Required Skills
  • Ability to read and understand instructions, drawings, and welding symbols.
  • Ability to perform basic math and take accurate standard and metric measurements.
Ameri-Force Benefits:
As part of the Ameri-Force team, a recognized ESOP company, you have a personal stake in the collective success of the organization, fostering a collaborative and rewarding work environment. Our competitive benefits package includes:
  • Industry Leading Pay
  • Medical Coverage
  • Dental Coverage
  • Vision Coverage
  • Short Term Disability Benefits
  • Term Life Benefits
  • Referral Bonuses (available for specific jobs only)
About Ameri-Force:
Since 1991, Ameri-Force has been a leader in skilled trades staffing, offering a people-focused approach that provides competitive advantages for our clients and rewarding career opportunities for our contract employees. Leveraging our deep expertise in maritime, manufacturing, aerospace, industrial, and energy sectors, we ensure a seamless experience by efficiently managing federal and state taxes, unemployment, and worker's compensation. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package tailored to meet the needs of our workforce.
Join Ameri-Force and be part of a company that values your success.
Learn more at ameriforceacademy.com
Note: The specific duties, skills, and qualifications may vary depending on program requirements and client site conditions. Employees must be willing to make reasonable adjustments to their tasks as needed.
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.