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Second Class Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hutco Inc

Structural Welder

Tampa, FL · On-site

$29/hr

Must have working history as a 1st class Welder or six months to a year of experience as a 2nd class Welder. * Minimum ability to read and write. Preferred: High School Diploma, GED, or Trade School ...

Butler Weldments

Welder - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Butler Weldments

Welder - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Butler Weldments

Welder - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

A Welder 2nd Class must be competent in using various types of equipment following all safety precautions. The ideal candidate will also have a steady hand, great attention to detail and working ...

Tecnico Corporation

Welder 2nd- 3rd Class

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

... welding various structures and materials. * Perform all other duties as assigned. * Able to ... steel plate qualified. * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing ...

Tecnico Corporation

Welder 1st Class

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $25.75/hr

... * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing qualification, plus 1 additional SMAW certification (not carbon steel) and 1 additional FCAW plate certification (not carbon steel ...

Tecnico Corporation

Welder 1st Class

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

... * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing qualification, plus 1 additional SMAW certification (not carbon steel) and 1 additional FCAW plate certification (not carbon steel ...

Stellar Energy Americas Inc

Structural Welder

Haslet, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

2nd Class Welder Position Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt, Hourly Reports to: Fabrication Manager Supervisory Responsibility: None Location: Fort Worth, TX Company Summary Stellar Energy is a trusted ...

Tecnico Corporation

Welder

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

... * 2nd Class = meet 3rd class requirements, hold a carbon arcing qualification, plus 1 additional SMAW certification (not carbon steel) and 1 additional FCAW plate certification (not carbon steel ...

Butler Weldments

Fitter - 2nd Class

Cameron, TX · On-site

... 2nd Class is responsible for positioning and securing various types and sizes of steel parts and ... Experience reading, understanding and adhering to established weld and production procedures.

mandiesel

Workshop - 2nd Class Mechanic

Houston, TX

$23.75 - $31.50/hr

Basic skills on SMAW welding * Perform other duties as assigned. Required Education: Associates ... A 2nd Class Diesel machinery Mechanic has two (2) or more years of experience. A 2nd Class Diesel ...

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All JobsSecond Class Welder Jobs

Second Class Welder information

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$14

$22

$31

How much do second class welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for second class welder 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.

Why do welders drink milk after welding?

Welders, including second class welders, often drink milk after welding to help neutralize the effects of inhaling metal fumes and to soothe the stomach, as welding fumes can cause irritation. Milk contains proteins that can bind to certain toxins and may provide some relief from minor gastrointestinal discomfort caused by exposure to fumes or chemicals during welding. However, it is not a substitute for proper safety measures such as wearing respirators and working in well-ventilated areas.

How to make $100,000 a year as a welder?

Second Class Welders can earn $100,000 annually by gaining extensive experience, obtaining specialized certifications, and working in high-paying industries such as oil and gas or construction. Working overtime, taking on supervisory roles, and mastering advanced welding techniques like TIG or MIG can also increase earning potential.

What are Second Class Welders?

Second Class Welders are skilled tradespeople who perform welding tasks that require moderate experience and proficiency. They typically handle less complex welding jobs compared to First Class Welders, such as basic fabrication, assembly, and repair using standard welding techniques like MIG, TIG, or arc welding. Second Class Welders must follow safety procedures, interpret blueprints, and ensure weld quality meets specified standards. This role often serves as a stepping stone to more advanced welding positions, allowing workers to gain experience and improve their skills.

What are some common challenges Second Class Welders face when working on large-scale projects?

Second Class Welders often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent weld quality under tight deadlines and adapting to a variety of welding positions or materials in large-scale projects. They may also need to coordinate closely with other trades, like fitters or engineers, to ensure precise alignment and compliance with safety standards. Additionally, working in diverse environments—indoors, outdoors, or at heights—requires adaptability and a strong focus on safety procedures. These factors make time management and communication key skills for success in this role.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Second Class Welders can earn around $50 an hour in specialized or high-demand industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or construction, especially with additional certifications and experience. Welding positions in these sectors often require skills in pipe welding, structural welding, or underwater welding, which can command higher wages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Second Class Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Second Class Welder, you need a solid understanding of welding techniques, blueprint reading, and experience with basic welding equipment, typically supported by a high school diploma or welding certificate. Familiarity with tools such as MIG or TIG welders, plasma cutters, and safety gear is essential, along with knowledge of industry safety standards. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong teamwork skills help set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure precise, safe, and efficient work, which is critical for maintaining quality and safety standards in welding projects.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Second class welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually if they work in high-demand industries, such as oil and gas or construction, often involving overtime, specialized skills, and certifications. However, such high earnings are uncommon and typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in remote or hazardous environments. Most welders earn significantly less, with top earners reaching high five-figure salaries annually.

What is the difference between Second Class Welder vs First Class Welder?

AspectSecond Class WelderFirst Class Welder
CertificationsTypically requires a second class welding certificationRequires a first class welding certification, which is more advanced
Work EnvironmentPerforms welding in various industrial settings, often under supervisionWorks in more complex projects, often with greater responsibility
Skills & ExperienceBasic welding skills, limited to certain techniquesAdvanced skills, proficiency in multiple welding techniques
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, construction, and maintenanceUsed in high-precision projects like shipbuilding, aerospace, and heavy industry

The main difference between a Second Class Welder and a First Class Welder lies in certification level, skill proficiency, and the complexity of tasks performed. First Class Welders have more advanced certifications and handle more complex projects, while Second Class Welders are skilled in basic welding tasks and work under supervision in various industrial settings.

More about Second Class Welder jobs
What cities are hiring for Second Class Welder jobs? Cities with the most Second Class Welder job openings:
What states have the most Second Class Welder jobs? States with the most job openings for Second Class Welder jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Second Class Welder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Second Class Welder jobs are:
Second Class Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Second Class Welder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,302 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Structural Welder

Structural Welder

Hutco Inc

Tampa, FL • On-site

$29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

HUTCO, INC.

Position: 1st Class Structural Welder

Job Location: Tampa, FL.

Hutco Branch: Tampa, FL.

Rate of Pay: $29 to $29 per hour and $120.00 Daily Per Diem for those who qualify

DESCRIPTION:

Currently seeking 1st class Structural Welder to work in Tampa, FL.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must have working history as a 1st class Welder or six months to a year of experience as a 2nd class Welder.
  • Minimum ability to read and write.

Preferred: High School Diploma, GED, or Trade School Diploma


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Enter and work in internally confined spaces.
  • Enter manholes with an inside diameter of 18”.
  • Manipulate and transport loads of up to 50 pounds over distances of up to 200 feet, approximately 1 to 6 times during each 8 hour shift.
  • Manipulate and operate all machines and tools essential to the performance of the position of Welder.
  • Traverse gangways and scaffolding at varying heights.
  • Traverse and negotiate uneven heights between dock and vessel.
  • Traverse and negotiate uneven surfaces.
  • Maneuver around piping obstructions and web frames.
  • Ascend and work at heights of up to 30 feet.
  • Stooping, squatting, twisting, kneeling, and reaching.

BENEFITS:

A limited benefit plan is available to Hutco, Inc. employees through Essential Staff Care. Available plans include:

  • Medical / Prescription
  • Dental Coverage
  • Vision Coverage
  • Short Term Disability Benefits
  • Term Life Benefits
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment Benefit

CONTACT HUTCO TODAY!

Apply ONLINE or at the Tampa Branch:

2603 N 10th St.

Tampa, FL. 33605

Or call us at (813) 221-0123

Contact: Doug Sernka or Nancy Castro

ncastro@hutcoinc.com

Se habla Espanol


Hutco, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).


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