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Per Diem Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SGS

VA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

SGS is currently looking for Welding Inspectors in multiple locations throughout the USA. Work will ... per diem may be considered. * The inspector will be required to sign an independent contractor ...

Tidewater Staffing

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SHIPFITTERS

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Shipfitter - Per Diem Available Location: Hampton Roads, Virginia Industry: Shipbuilding, Ship ... Fit and tack-weld parts together in preparation for final welding. * Use measuring tools, straight ...

Hutco Inc

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

... 50.00 per hour (Per diem available for those who qualify) DESCRIPTION: Hutco, Inc. is seeking ... Welding Materials : Ability to fuse inserts and weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and copper ...

Hutco Inc

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

... 50.00 per hour (Per diem available for those who qualify) DESCRIPTION: Hutco, Inc. is seeking ... Welding Materials : Ability to fuse inserts and weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and copper ...

Hutco Inc

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

... 50.00 per hour (Per diem available for those who qualify) DESCRIPTION: Hutco, Inc. is seeking ... Welding Materials : Ability to fuse inserts and weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and copper ...

Hutco Inc

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

... 50.00 per hour (Per diem available for those who qualify) DESCRIPTION: Hutco, Inc. is seeking ... Welding Materials : Ability to fuse inserts and weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and copper ...

Hutco Inc

Pipe Welder

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$50/hr

... 50.00 per hour (Per diem available for those who qualify) DESCRIPTION: Hutco, Inc. is seeking ... Welding Materials : Ability to fuse inserts and weld carbon steel, stainless steel, and copper ...

HII

Welder - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

Per Diem provided based on location when on travel. Travel and lodging expenses are covered by the company. **Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

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All JobsPer Diem Welding JobsPer Diem Welding Jobs in Virginia

Per Diem Welding information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$22

$30

How much do per diem welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem welding in Virginia is $22.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $24.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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, and may work on short-term or project-based schedules in various industrial environments.

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

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Per Diem Welding jobs in Virginia?

For Per Diem Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Per Diem Welding jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Per Diem Welding jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Per Diem Welding jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Per Diem Welding job openings:

Per Diem Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Welding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,904 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Structural Welder (Pulse Arc) (Per Diem)

Ameri-Force

Newport News, VA • On-site

$45/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Job Title: Structural Welder

Location: Newport News, VA

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay Range: $45.00/hour

Per Diem: $120/day (Non-Local Employees Only)

Bonus: Hire Bonus

Overview: We are seeking experienced Structural Welders to support shipbuilding and ship repair operations in Newport News, VA. The ideal candidate will have experience performing multi-pass welds in all positions using multiple welding processes and be capable of working in demanding shipyard environments. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency through required welding qualification tests and maintain a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.

Responsibilities

  • Perform multi-pass fillet and butt welds in all positions using:
    • SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding)
    • GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding)
    • FCAW (Flux Cored Arc Welding)
  • Operate oxygen/propane heating torches safely and effectively
  • Perform Air Carbon Arc Gouging operations
  • Read and interpret welding procedures, drawings, and specifications
  • Use fillet and butt weld gauges to verify weld quality and compliance
  • Work in physically demanding shipyard environments, including shipboard spaces, ladders, staging, and sub-assemblies
  • Follow OSHA regulations and shipyard safety requirements
  • Maintain quality workmanship in accordance with project standards and specifications

Qualifications

  • Experience performing multi-pass fillet and butt welds in all positions
  • Proficiency with SMAW, FCAW, and GMAW welding processes
  • Experience with Air Carbon Arc Gouging
  • Ability to properly use fillet and butt weld gauges
  • Experience working in physically demanding shipyard environments
  • Familiarity with OSHA regulations related to the shipbuilding industry
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship

Testing Requirements
Candidates must successfully pass all required tests without additional training:

  • SMAW Welding Test: 2G, 3G, and 4G positions
  • FCAW Welding Test: 2G, 3G, and 4G positions
  • GMAW Welding Test: 2G position
  • Air Carbon Arc Gouging Proficiency Test
  • Visual Weld Inspection Evaluation
  • Vision Test

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.