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Per Diem Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Per Diem Pipe Welder

Jacksonville, FL

$37/hr

$125 per diem pipe welding project in Cape Canaveral, Florida!! Job Details * We are hiring pipe welders for a long term project * You will be working in Cape Canaveral, FL * Must have previous ...

Southern Skill Trades

Pipe Welder

Pascagoula, MS

$180/hr

This position pays $52 per hour plus $180 per day per diem. Candidates must have craft or shipyard experience and must be able to pass the required screening. Work includes pipe welding in a marine ...

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Per Diem Welding information

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How much do per diem welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem welding 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.

How does per diem work for welders?

Per diem for welders is a daily allowance provided to cover expenses such as meals and lodging when working away from home. It is typically paid in addition to the hourly or project-based wages and is often part of contract or temporary work arrangements, especially for jobs requiring travel or overnight stays. The amount and policies vary by employer and project, and some welders may need to submit expense reports to receive per diem payments.

What is the difference between Per Diem Welding vs Contract Welding?

AspectPer Diem WeldingContract Welding
CredentialsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)
Work EnvironmentProject sites, often temporary or short-termProject sites, often short-term or long-term
Employer UsageEmployers pay daily rates, often for temporary projectsEmployers hire for specific contracts or projects
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for temporary, daily-rate welding jobsSeeking contract-based welding opportunities

Per Diem Welding involves working on temporary projects with daily pay rates, often in various locations. Contract Welding also involves project-based work but may include longer-term commitments. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but the payment structure and job duration differ.

How much do per diem welders make?

Per diem welders typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the work. They often receive additional benefits such as per diem allowances for travel and lodging, especially on short-term or remote projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem welder?

To thrive as a Per Diem Welder, you need proficiency in various welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, or Stick welding), a high school diploma or equivalent, and often relevant welding certifications. Familiarity with welding equipment, blueprints, and safety systems like OSHA regulations is critical. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, and effective communication help individuals excel in diverse and changing job assignments. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality workmanship, safety, and reliability in short-term or project-based welding roles.

What is per diem welding?

Per diem welding refers to welding jobs where workers are paid a daily allowance, known as 'per diem,' in addition to their regular wages. This allowance is meant to cover expenses such as meals, lodging, and travel when working away from home or on temporary assignments. Per diem welding positions are common in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and pipeline installation, where projects often require travel to various locations. These jobs can offer higher overall compensation due to the additional per diem pay, but they also typically involve more travel and time away from home.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem welders, and how can they be addressed?

Per diem welders often face challenges such as adapting quickly to different job sites, tools, and team dynamics, since assignments can vary frequently. Managing inconsistent schedules and travel requirements can also be demanding, but staying organized and maintaining open communication with staffing agencies or employers helps. Building a strong professional network and keeping certifications current are key strategies for securing steady assignments and advancing in the field.
More about Per Diem Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Per Diem Welding jobs? Cities with the most Per Diem Welding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs? The most popular types of Welding jobs are:
What states have the most Per Diem Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Per Diem Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Per Diem Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Per Diem Welding jobs are:
Per Diem Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Welding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Structural Welder (Per Diem)

Ameri-Force

Goose Creek, SC

$45 - $55/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Structural Welder
Location: Goose Creek, SC
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: $45.00 - $55.00/hour
Per Diem: $120/day (Non-Local Employees Only)
Bonus: Hire Bonus
Overview: We are seeking experienced Structural Welders to support marine vessel construction and repair projects in Goose Creek, SC. The ideal candidate will have extensive shipyard or marine welding experience, strong blueprint reading skills, and the ability to perform high-quality structural welds using multiple welding processes. This position offers competitive pay, per diem for qualified non-local employees, and a hire bonus opportunity.

Responsibilities
  • Perform structural welding on marine vessels, ship components, and offshore structures
  • Weld using SMAW (Stick), FCAW, GMAW (MIG), and/or GTAW (TIG) processes as required
  • Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and technical drawings
  • Fit, fabricate, and repair structural components according to specifications
  • Perform welding in flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions
  • Operate hand tools, grinders, torches, and welding equipment safely and efficiently
  • Inspect completed welds to ensure quality and compliance with project standards
  • Follow all shipyard, OSHA, and safety regulations
  • Work in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying weather conditions as required
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
Qualifications
  • Minimum five (5+) years of structural welding experience in a marine or shipyard environment
  • Proficiency in SMAW and FCAW welding processes
  • Experience working with carbon steel and marine-grade materials
  • Ability to read blueprints, weld symbols, and technical specifications
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
  • Ability to pass required welding qualification tests
  • Physically capable of lifting, climbing, and working in industrial environments
  • Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
Testing Requirements
  1. Pulse Weld Test
    • 2G, 3G, and 4G plate test
    • 1" thickness with back gouge
    • Visual Test (VT) and Side Bend
  2. Spray Weld Test
    • 2G plate test
    • ¾" thickness
    • Visual Test (VT) and Side Bend
  3. FCAW Weld Test
    • 2G, 3G, and 4G plate test
    • ¾" thickness with backing
    • Visual Test (VT) and Side Bend

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

Referral Bonuses are 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, including medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, and life insurance, tailored to meet the needs of our workforce. Join Ameri-Force and be part of a company that values your success.

Learn more at ameriforce.com

Note: The specific duties, skills and qualifications may vary depending on the company’s requirements and the nature of the tasks performed at the site. Employees must be willing to make reasonable adjustments to their tasks depending on the requirements of the client. We are an equal opportunity employer. We 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.