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Full Time Rig Welder Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Wagman, Inc.

Skilled Laborer/Certified Welder

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Welding exp or certification preferred, drill rig experience/knowledge preferred Travel Requirement ... all full-time employees that includes: * Medical/Vision/Dental Insurance * Flexible Spending ...

Flagship Carwash

Maintenance Technician

Herndon, VA · On-site

Non-Exempt JOB STATUS: Full Time LOCATION: Regional HQ Office REPORTS TO: Manager Maintenance ... Welding experience a plus * Able to pass background check to operate company provided vehicle for ...

All JobsRig Welder JobsFull Time Rig Welder JobsFull Time Rig Welder Jobs in Virginia

Full Time Rig Welder information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$31

$61

How much do full time rig welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time rig welder in Virginia is $31.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.00 and $40.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time rig welder?

Full time rig welders are skilled tradespeople who specialize in welding work on oil rigs, pipelines, and other industrial sites, typically working long hours on a rotating schedule. They are responsible for joining metal components, repairing equipment, and ensuring the structural integrity of rigs and pipelines. Rig welders must be proficient in various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding, and often work in challenging conditions, including offshore or remote locations. This role requires certification, safety training, and strong attention to detail to meet industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time rig welder?

To thrive as a Full Time Rig Welder, you need advanced welding skills, knowledge of metal fabrication, and relevant certifications such as AWS or API, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with welding equipment, cutting torches, safety gear, and the ability to read blueprints and technical drawings are essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help ensure safety and high-quality workmanship on the job site. These competencies are critical for meeting industry standards, ensuring project efficiency, and maintaining a safe work environment in demanding conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by full time rig welders, and how can they be addressed?

Full Time Rig Welders often encounter challenges such as working in harsh outdoor environments, adhering to strict safety protocols, and managing physically demanding tasks. Weather conditions, remote locations, and long shifts can require strong physical endurance and adaptability. To address these challenges, it's important to prioritize safety training, maintain physical fitness, and communicate effectively with team members to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Building strong problem-solving skills and staying current with industry certifications also contribute to long-term success in this role.

What is the difference between Full Time Rig Welder vs Contract Rig Welder?

AspectFull Time Rig WelderContract Rig Welder
CredentialsWelding certifications (e.g., ASME, AWS)Same certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOn-site, offshore or onshore oil rigsSame as full-time, but project-based
Employment TypeFull-time, permanentTemporary, project-specific
Work ScheduleConsistent hours, benefits includedVariable hours, no benefits

Both Full Time Rig Welders and Contract Rig Welders require similar certifications and work in offshore or onshore rig environments. The main difference lies in employment status: full-time welders have permanent positions with benefits, while contract welders work on temporary projects without long-term benefits.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rig Welder jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Rig Welder jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Full Time Rig Welder jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Full Time Rig Welder job openings:

Full Time Rig Welder jobs near you

Industrial Pipe Welder

Four Square Industrial Constructors

Petersburg, VA

$25.50 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Weld process piping, utility piping, structural components, and related industrial assemblies according to drawings, specifications, and approved welding procedures.

  • Perform various welding processes such as GTAW/TIG, SMAW/stick, FCAW, and others as required by the project.

  • Read and interpret isometric drawings, weld maps, P&IDs, fabrication drawings, and work packages.

Job description

Four Square Industrial Constructors, LLC is seeking experienced Industrial Pipe Welders to support industrial construction, plant maintenance, process-piping installation, and shutdown work. This position is responsible for producing high-quality welds on carbon steel, stainless steel, and other piping materials in industrial and manufacturing environments.

Job Type: Full-time
Location: Petersburg/Richmond, VA and regional industrial job sites
Pay: Competitive hourly pay based on experience, weld test results, and project requirements
Overtime: Available based on project schedules and customer needs

Responsibilities

  • Weld process piping, utility piping, structural components, and related industrial assemblies according to drawings, specifications, and approved welding procedures.
  • Perform GTAW/TIG, SMAW/stick, FCAW, and other welding processes as required by the project.
  • Weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy pipe in shop and field conditions.
  • Complete welds in multiple positions, including 6G, using open-root, TIG-root, stick-fill-and-cap, or other required procedures.
  • Read and interpret isometric drawings, weld maps, P&IDs, fabrication drawings, and work packages.
  • Verify proper fit-up, bevels, root openings, alignment, material identification, and weld-joint preparation before welding.
  • Maintain weld quality that meets project specifications, visual inspection requirements, and applicable code requirements.
  • Work with pipefitters, foremen, project managers, inspectors, and customer representatives to maintain production, quality, and schedule.
  • Operate welding machines, grinders, torches, plasma cutters, portable power tools, and material-handling equipment in a safe manner.
  • Follow all company and client site safety rules, hot-work permits, lockout/tagout requirements, PPE requirements, and housekeeping standards.
  • Perform minor fitting, tack welding, repair welding, and related industrial construction duties as assigned.
  • Supply your own tig rig and welding shield
  • Willing to work overtime as needed

Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years of industrial pipe welding experience; plant, refinery, manufacturing, power-generation, food-processing, or chemical-industry experience is preferred.
  • Proven ability to pass Company Required and project-specific weld tests, including 6G pipe tests when required.
  • Experience welding carbon steel and stainless-steel pipe is required; experience with chrome, alloy, or high-pressure piping is a plus.
  • Must be able to read and work from isometric drawings and welding specifications.
  • Current welding certifications are preferred; candidates must be willing and able to pass company required weld tests before placement.
  • OSHA 10, NCCER, TWIC, forklift/aerial-lift, confined-space, or rigging credentials are a plus.
  • Must have reliable transportation and be able to report consistently to assigned job sites.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment and site-required drug screening, background checks, and safety orientations.
  • Must be physically capable of performing essential job functions, including lifting, climbing, working from ladders or lifts, and working in hot, cold, elevated, confined, or industrial environments, with or without reasonable accommodation.

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay based on welding ability, experience, certifications, and project requirements.
  • Overtime opportunities based on plant schedules, outages, and construction deadlines.
  • Steady work with an established commercial and industrial contractor.
  • Opportunities to work on industrial process-piping, equipment-installation, maintenance, and turnaround projects.
  • Benefits available in accordance with company policy.

Apply

Submit your resume or work history, welding certifications, and a brief description of the materials, processes, and pipe positions you are qualified to weld.

Four Square Industrial Constructors, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply