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Offshore Oil Rig Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Offshore Oil Rig Welding information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Offshore Oil Rig Welding position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Offshore Oil Rig Welder, you need advanced welding skills, a strong understanding of metal fabrication, and typically certification such as AWS or equivalent offshore welding qualifications. Experience with specialized equipment like MIG, TIG, and stick welding tools, as well as compliance with safety and maritime regulations, is essential. Physical stamina, attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for maintaining structural integrity, ensuring safety in challenging conditions, and supporting reliable operations on offshore rigs.

What is the typical work environment like for an Offshore Oil Rig Welder?

Offshore Oil Rig Welders work in a highly dynamic and physically demanding environment, often spending weeks at sea in rotational shifts. You will be part of a tight-knit crew, collaborating closely with engineers, rig technicians, and safety personnel to perform repair and maintenance tasks on the rig’s critical infrastructure. The workspace can be noisy, confined, and exposed to harsh weather, so adherence to strict safety protocols is essential. Many find the camaraderie and sense of accomplishment rewarding, and the role offers competitive compensation with opportunities for career advancement into supervisory or inspection positions.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Offshore oil rig welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually, especially with high-demand skills, overtime, and experience. Such earnings typically require specialized certifications, extensive experience, and working in remote or hazardous environments with long shifts. However, average salaries are generally lower, and reaching this level depends on factors like location, employer, and skill level.

How much does a welder on an oil rig make?

Welders on offshore oil rigs typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Overtime, hazardous environment pay, and specialized skills can increase earnings for offshore welders. Many also receive benefits such as housing, travel allowances, and safety training.

How much do offshore deep sea welders make?

Offshore deep sea welders typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the project. Overtime, hazardous environment pay, and specialized skills can increase total compensation. These roles often require certifications such as ASME or AWS and working in challenging conditions offshore for extended periods.

What is an Offshore Oil Rig Welding job?

An Offshore Oil Rig Welding job involves welding and repairing metal structures on oil rigs located in oceans or seas. Welders work on pipelines, platforms, and machinery to ensure structural integrity and safety. The job requires knowledge of various welding techniques, including underwater and high-pressure welding. It often involves working in challenging environments with strict safety protocols. Welders must have certifications and experience in offshore operations.

Do offshore oil rigs need welders?

Offshore oil rig welding is essential for constructing, maintaining, and repairing the structural components of the rig, including pipes, supports, and safety systems. Welders working in this environment must have specialized skills, certifications, and often work in challenging conditions at sea. Their work ensures the integrity and safety of the rig's operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs in Virginia? For Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Offshore Oil Rig Welding job openings:
Offshore Oil Rig Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Offshore Oil Rig Welding job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Shipfitter III/Specialist

Shipfitter III/Specialist

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Chesapeake, VA

$17 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

366th of 486 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Oceaneering Marine Services Division (MSD) has over 30 years of experience providing full-service submarine and surface ship repairs supporting maintenance and alterations aboard commercial and U.S. military vessels. We are SUBSAFE and DDS-SOC certified and perform high-consequence maintenance on assets that operate in de

Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer: 
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
Oceaneering Marine Services Division (MSD) has over 30 years of experience providing full-service submarine and surface ship repairs supporting maintenance and alterations aboard commercial and U.S. military vessels. We are SUBSAFE and DDS-SOC certified and perform high-consequence maintenance on assets that operate in demanding environments. 

  • High School/GED with Apprenticeship Diploma and additional vocational courses or technical school graduate; and/or military and/or civilian experience with Shipfitting practices in a repair department or shipyard.
  • Must have the ability to obtain government base access.
  • Knowledge and practical skills tests required.
  • Deep Submergence Systems (SOC MCD A, B, and C), SUBSAFE  Qualification. Welding qualifications (GTAW/SMAW).
  • Must be able to obtain a Secr
    • Requires no supervision and excels in all qualifications, is an expert in all tasks required as a Shipfitter and will provide mentoring to junior craftsman.
    • Must be able to understand and perform the set up, alignment, and operation of all portable tools and hand tools used in the trade including plasma cutting machines and oxy/fuel torches.
    • Expert in the following: shipboard plate (hull, deck, bulkhead) systems (repair/installation practices, procedures, alignments and

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