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Rig Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various types of metal parts, selecting and setting up welding equipment, interpreting blueprints while ...

Welders read Isometric drawings * Take measurements * Plan layouts and procedures * Determine what welding equipment and methods to use based on requirements * Set-up components to specifications

Welders read Isometric drawings * Take measurements * Plan layouts and procedures * Determine what welding equipment and methods to use based on requirements * Set-up components to specifications

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various types of metal parts, selecting and setting up welding equipment, interpreting blueprints while ...

Rig Welder

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$230 - $460/wk

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various types of metal parts, selecting and setting up welding equipment, interpreting blueprints while ...

Must own welding machine. * Candidate should have a minimum 2 years journeyman experience welding various types of materials. * Candidate should have a 1-2 years of experience as helper in the ...

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Welder/Fabricator to join our team. This position will play a crucial role in ensuring our operations' structural integrity and safety. The ideal candidate will ...

Rig Welder

Carlsbad, NM · On-site

$230 - $460/wk

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various types of metal parts, selecting and setting up welding equipment, interpreting blueprints while ...

Perform welding tasks using various welding processes (e.g., stick, MIG) to join, fabricate, and repair metal components. * Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and other technical documents.

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various types of metal parts, selecting and setting up welding equipment, interpreting blueprints while ...

This position is primarily responsible for operating welding machines to join or connect various types of metal parts, selecting and setting up welding equipment, interpreting blueprints while ...

Rig Welder

Abilene, TX · On-site

$33 - $42/hr

Secure components together using electric welding. Create accurate welds that do not change the measurements of the component and will be able to with stand various types of steam, hot water, gases ...

Overview The Rig Welder will support rigs in all operations that require cutting or welding. Will work from blueprints, sketches, specifications and produce quality work with reasonable efficiency.

More information about this job Overview The Rig Welder will support rigs in all operations that require cutting or welding. Will work from blueprints, sketches, specifications and produce quality ...

ND · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is seaching for a Rig Welder with extensive experience in carbon steel welding in the oil and gas petrochemical industry working on a project in Dry Fork, ND.

Welder I/Rig Welder

Carlsbad, NM

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is seaching for a Rig Welder with extensive experience in carbon steel welding in the oil and gas petrochemical industry working on a project in Carlsbad, NM.

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Rig Welder information

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$5

$46

$83

How much do rig welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for rig welder in the United States is $46.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.86 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a rig welder?

Rig welders are skilled professionals who specialize in welding tasks on oil rigs, pipelines, and other industrial construction sites, often in remote or offshore locations. They are responsible for creating and repairing metal structures, ensuring the integrity and safety of equipment used in oil and gas extraction. Rig welders must be proficient in various welding techniques, such as arc welding and TIG welding, and must adhere to strict safety standards. The job can be physically demanding and may require working long hours in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rig welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rig Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and safety procedures, typically supported by a welding certification and relevant field experience. Familiarity with welding equipment, inspection tools, and industry standards such as AWS or ASME codes is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help set top performers apart in this demanding environment. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, high-quality work under challenging conditions, critical for the integrity of structures and project success.

What does a rig welder do?

A Rig Welder is a key player in the oil industry. Rig Welder work on oil rigs--large platforms erected to carry out oil drilling, processing, and storage--and use specialized equipment to weld metals on the rig. Rig Welders are vital in reinforcing the infrastructure necessary to extract and process oil and, in many cases, natural gases. Rig Welders also construct pipes, bond metals to create beams, vessels, and pipes, and ensure the proper use, maintenance, and storage of welding equipment.

What are the common challenges faced by rig welders when working on remote job sites?

Rig welders often encounter challenges such as harsh weather conditions, limited access to resources, and extended periods away from home when working on remote job sites. Adapting to changing environments and maintaining safety standards under physically demanding conditions are crucial aspects of the role. Effective communication with other crew members and the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues quickly are also key to success in these settings. Despite these challenges, many rig welders find the work rewarding due to the variety of projects and opportunities for overtime.

What is the difference between Rig Welder vs Pipe Welder?

AspectRig WelderPipe Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., ASME, AWS)Welding certifications (e.g., ASME, AWS)
Work EnvironmentOffshore rigs, oil & gas platforms, construction sitesPipeline construction, refineries, industrial plants
Industry UsageOil & gas, energy, constructionOil & gas, utilities, manufacturing

Both Rig Welders and Pipe Welders require similar welding certifications and often work in the oil & gas industry. However, Rig Welders typically work offshore on rigs and platforms, while Pipe Welders focus on pipeline and industrial pipe systems. The roles are closely related but differ mainly in work environment and specific job tasks.

What cities are hiring for Rig Welder jobs?

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What states have the most Rig Welder jobs?

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Infographic showing various Rig Welder job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $96,884 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

***This job has preference to qualified local job seekers within 60 miles of our Axis Odessa, TX facility.

The primary role of the Rig Welder is the assembling and welding of metal plates and other metal structures that make up the drilling platform and rigs. They ensure the metal infrastructures used to extract, process, and store oil are strong enough to withstand heavy-duty work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Reading and interpreting technical drawings and blueprints of industrial equipment to assemble them accordingly.
  • Welding the mast, derrick, and other support infrastructures
  • Welding metal pipes, plates, and other materials to build new metal structures like storage tanks.
  • Inspecting welds to ensure they are strong, durable, and according to specification.
  • Assembling and repairing pipelines for oil and natural gas companies.
  • Welding large structures like boilers, oil platforms, and ships
  • Maintenance and proper storage of welding equipment
  • Test and inspect the vessel and/or piping systems for leaks or defects.
  • Installation, repair, troubleshooting, and replacement of broken valves, joints, or pipes, using power and hand tools, gas torches, and welding equipment.
  • Perform welding duties using wire welding GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding), or SMAW (Stick Welding).
  • LDAR repair and compliance assurance
  • Operate computerized welding tools, including plasma cutters and arc welders.
  • Study blueprints, sketches, or specifications, calculate dimensions
  • Handle other duties like cleaning shop/work sites and keeping shop records, as specified by the supervisor.

 Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) 

  • High School Diploma, GED or equivalent; Certification from trade or technical school
  • 2-3 years or more solid and proven work experience with oil field equipment
  • Must have experience with Hot Wire Auto Tig Machine/Process GTAW-P
  • Experience using a cutting torch, and plasma torch.
  • Must be familiar with SMAW, SAW and GTAW welding processes, competent reading, and interpretation of fabrication blueprints.
  • Able to maintain proper organization on documentation and work areas, follow all company policies and safety measures.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy are essential
  • Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Word, Excel and other necessary applications
  • Positive attitude, Decision making, interpersonal skills, conflict management and coaching skills.
  • Factory environment with a large range in temperature changes.
  • Standing, Walking, Bending/Stooping, Push/Pull, and Repetitive Movement up to 12 hours daily.
  • Lifting weights up to 50 lbs. regularly