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Gouging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Komatsu

Welder

Billings, MT · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Fall Protection Task Trained • Certified 1/16" 3G • Certified 1/16" 4G • Proficient at Carbon Arc Gouging • Proficient with Oxy/Fuel Torch • Certified 3/32" 1G • Understand Weld Symbols ...

Komatsu

Welder

Billings, MT · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Fall Protection Task Trained • Certified 1/16" 3G • Certified 1/16" 4G • Proficient at Carbon Arc Gouging • Proficient with Oxy/Fuel Torch • Certified 3/32" 1G • Understand Weld Symbols ...

Littell Steel Company

Be Seen First

Structural Steel Welder

New Brighton, PA · On-site

$24 - $45/hr

Perform carbon arc gouging and weld preparation as required * Weld shear studs and other structural steel components * Inspect work for quality and dimensional accuracy before releasing assemblies

Komatsu

Welder (Shop)

Elko, NV · On-site

Demonstrate expertise in Carbon Arc Gouging and Oxy/Fuel Torch operations to execute precise metal cutting and preparation tasks. * Interpret weld symbols accurately and possess advanced proficiency ...

Komatsu

Welder (Shop)

Elko, NV · On-site

Demonstrate expertise in Carbon Arc Gouging and Oxy/Fuel Torch operations to execute precise metal cutting and preparation tasks. * Interpret weld symbols accurately and possess advanced proficiency ...

Komatsu

Welder - Hiring Now

Billings, MT · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Fall Protection Task Trained • Certified 1/16" 3G • Certified 1/16" 4G • Proficient at Carbon Arc Gouging • Proficient with Oxy/Fuel Torch • Certified 3/32" 1G • Understand Weld Symbols ...

Komatsu

Welder (Shop)-Elko,Nevada

Spring Creek, NV

Demonstrate expertise in Carbon Arc Gouging and Oxy/Fuel Torch operations to execute precise metal cutting and preparation tasks. * Interpret weld symbols accurately and possess advanced proficiency ...

Austal USA

Welder - Manufacturing

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

Austal USA

Welder - Hiring Now

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

Komatsu

Welder - Manufacturing

Elko, NV · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Demonstrate expertise in Carbon Arc Gouging and Oxy/Fuel Torch operations to execute precise metal cutting and preparation tasks. * Interpret weld symbols accurately and possess advanced proficiency ...

Komatsu

Welder - Manufacturing

Billings, MT · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Fall Protection Task Trained • Certified 1/16" 3G • Certified 1/16" 4G • Proficient at Carbon Arc Gouging • Proficient with Oxy/Fuel Torch • Certified 3/32" 1G • Understand Weld Symbols ...

New

Austal USA

A Class Structural Welder - SDCA

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

Austal USA

Welder - Hiring Now

Jamul, CA · On-site

$40.86/hr

Ability to pass A Class skills evaluation test to demonstrate welding ability for full penetration joint details along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical, flame, and ...

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All JobsGouging Jobs

Gouging information

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$16

$30

$47

How much do gouging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for gouging in the United States is $30.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work environments and challenges for a Gouging Operator?

Gouging Operators most commonly work in industrial settings such as manufacturing plants, fabrication shops, or shipyards, where safety and precision are top priorities. The role often requires working in noisy, hot, or confined spaces while handling heavy equipment and protective gear. Some common challenges include managing the physical demands of the job and maintaining accuracy during extended periods of repetitive work. However, teamwork is integral, as operators frequently coordinate with welders, fabricators, and supervisors to complete projects efficiently and safely.

What is a Gouging job?

A gouging job involves removing metal from a workpiece using techniques like air carbon arc gouging or oxy-fuel gouging. This process is commonly used in welding, fabrication, and repair work to prepare joints, remove defects, or dismantle metal structures. Gouging requires skill in handling specialized tools, ensuring precision, and maintaining safety protocols. It is widely used in industries such as shipbuilding, construction, and heavy equipment manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Gouging position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Gouging Operator, you should have solid mechanical aptitude, knowledge of metal fabrication, and experience with industrial cutting tools, often supported by vocational training or on-the-job experience. Familiarity with oxy-fuel or plasma gouging equipment and adherence to safety protocols are crucial, and certifications such as OSHA 10 may be required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and good communication skills help set standout candidates apart. These competencies ensure precise material removal, safe work practices, and efficient collaboration on fabrication or repair projects.

Can you make 300,000 as a welder?

Earning $300,000 as a welder is possible but uncommon and typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, working in high-paying industries like oil and gas or aerospace, and often involves overtime or supervisory roles. Most welders earn significantly less, with top earners reaching higher salaries through certifications and advanced techniques. Salary potential varies based on location, industry, and level of expertise.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

High-paying jobs that can reach $4,000 a week without a degree include roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales managers, real estate brokers, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience, and may involve physically demanding work or irregular schedules.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule in jobs, including roles like gouging, often refers to a probationary period during which an employee's performance is evaluated before full employment benefits or permanency are granted. This period typically lasts three months, allowing employers to assess skills, reliability, and fit for the position. It is common for new hires to undergo training and performance reviews during this time.

What is a gouging work?

Gouging work typically refers to jobs involving the use of a gouging tool, such as an air or electric gouging torch, to cut or remove material like metal or concrete. It is common in construction, demolition, and repair projects where precise material removal is required, often requiring safety gear and technical skill.
More about Gouging jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Gouging jobs? The most popular types of Gouging jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Gouging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Gouging jobs are:
Gouging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gouging job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 14% Contract, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,479 per year, or $30 per hour.
B Class Structural Fitter-Mobile,Alabama

B Class Structural Fitter-Mobile,Alabama

Austal USA

Mobile, AL • On-site

$35.85/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Austal USA rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

249th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

**Now paying up to $35.85/hr**
REPORTS TO: Fabrication Supervisor
SUPERVISES: N/A
AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Understands directions and follows instructions.
  • Maintains cleanliness and organization on assigned job sites.
  • Accountable for completion of daily work assignments including the completion and signatures for work completion and quality.
  • Performs basic layout of plates, materials and weldments using basic engineering sketches, drawings, and diagrams with minimal supervision.
  • Performs shipfitting functions such as but not limited to fit up of structure, cutting, sniping, sanding, grinding, prepping, tacking and arc gouging the fit up of plates along with arc gouging and back gouging of steel welds through mechanical flame, and ARC gouging procedures with minimum supervision.
  • Performs fitting operations with limited supervision using standard shipfitting equipment to accomplish fabrication and ship repair duties.
  • Obtain GMAW ABS 'B' Class Weld Certification for aluminum applications and/or FCAW 'B' Class Weld Certification for steel applications.
  • Perform safe and effective use of craft related tools and equipment, including but not limited to: milling discs, sanders, grinders, burr motors, band saws, skill saws, saws all, cutting torches, arc gougers, plate magnets, general fitting aids, come along and chain falls etc.
  • Interprets job specifications and performs work on marine vessels.
  • Monitors working environment for compliance with quality, safety, environmental and health regulations.
  • May be assigned to work any shift.
  • May be assigned tasks outside craft as required.
  • Must comply with the Company's "Equal Opportunity and Anti-Harassment Policy" which expects that all relationships among persons in the workplace will be professional and free of bias, prejudice, and harassment.

QUALIFICATIONS / KNOWLEDGE / EXPERIENCE:
  • Minimum 6 months' experience as a Trade Assistant at Austal or 1 year related experience in similar industry required
  • Pass approved B Class Fitter test for Aluminum and/or Steel
  • Must demonstrate an acceptable proficiency and competency to Austal Supervision for a B-Class Fitter position
  • Must be willing to work with and train lower-skilled workers.
  • Must demonstrate ability to interpret job specifications and perform work on marine vessels
  • Knowledge of equipment, work processes and techniques used in measuring, and fitting of aluminum and/or steel components, modules and vessels.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and measure using the metric system.
  • Knowledge of shipyard terminology such as general ship structure and vessel layout
  • Ability to work any shift or overtime as required by management, schedule must be flexible.
TOOLS: As directed by supervisor
DIRECTION EXERCISED: N/A
DISCRETION EXERCISED: N/A
LIASES WITH: Production Department Supervisors, Foremen and Managers, Health, Safety and Environmental
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:
  • Candidates must have HS Diploma/GED or comparable trade experience.
  • Comparable trade experience is defined as five (5) or more years of experience working in the applicable trade, two (2) years of experience in shipbuilding, or education in the trade comparable to apprenticeship.
  • Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:
  • 18 years of age or older at time of application
  • Able to provide proof of US Person Status
  • No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date
  • No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date
  • Willing to submit to a drug screen
  • Willing to submit to a background check

PHISICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to tour all vessels and work sites.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit.
Specific physical requirements include the following:
Must have the ability to bend, squat, stoop, crawl, and kneel. Perform prolonged standing. Ability to turn head from side to side and about the vertical axis. Ability to turn body at the waist from side to side and about the vertical axis. Lift/push/pull 50lbs to 75lbs on an occasional basis. Lift/push/pull up to 20lbs on a frequent basis. Must have the ability to climb in a safe manner (climbing as a minimum includes stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and ramps). Ability to work at heights above 12' while working from ladders, scaffolding and/or man lifts. Able to work at a variety of levels (ex. waist, eye, overhead). Demonstrate the ability to safely and appropriately use required tools and equipment. Demonstrate good balance while working on uneven surfaces and maneuvering obstacles. Possess sufficient handgrip and coordination to carry and operate tools and equipment. Ability to utilize personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toes shoes, goggles, respirator, safety harness, safety line, flotation gear, etc.) safely per OSHA standards. Ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures. Ability to enter 18" x 36" openings and work in confined spaces for prolonged periods of time. Able to respond to verbal and audible sounds/commands. Able to utilize adequate visual skills. Ability to fully extend the arm while reaching overhead, reaching out, reaching to the side and reaching down. Ability to perceive attributes of an object/material such as size, shape, temperature and texture by means of receptors in the hands and fingers.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters whole performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, outside weather conditions, and extreme heat. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes and/or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and heat and cold. The noise level in the work environment is usually very loud.
SAFETY
Must comply with company, federal, state, and local safety and environmental rules and regulations while performing daily job tasks.
Equal Employment Commitment
Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.
Austal's commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.

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