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Second Class Welder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

New

Gulf Copper LLC

FCAW Plate Welder - 2nd Class NIGHTS

Galveston, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Plate Welder 2nd Class (PLW2) - Welder capable of welding SMAW & FCAW on plate/structural with ABS Q2+4G or ASME or AWS plate test (2G+3G+4G). Company Overview: Gulf Copper LLC, a subsidiary of Davie ...

Posted today

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 ...

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Welder - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Welder - Manufacturing

Hampton, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Welder - Hiring Now

Carrollton, VA · On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

2nd Class Welder - Steel America POSITION SUMMARY: As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ...

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Second Class Welder information

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How much do second class welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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.

What is a second class welder?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a second class welder?

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.

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.

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:
Second Class Welder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Second Class Welder job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 30% 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.

2nd Class Welder - Steel America (Job ID: 1434)-Norfolk,Virginia

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

On-site

$24.15 - $30.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

2nd Class Welder - Steel America
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ship components and structures within the shipyard and heavy industrial environments. This role requires extensive experience in multiple welding techniques, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform welding tasks using various techniques such as stick welding, flux core, and carbon arc welding on different metals, including steel and aluminum.
  • Prepare materials and surfaces for welding by cleaning, grinding, and pre-heating as necessary.
  • Ensure all welds meet industry standards and project specifications through visual inspections and non-destructive testing methods.
  • Repair damaged or defective welds and perform routine maintenance on welding equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
  • Identify and resolve welding-related issues on the job site, ensuring high-quality and effective solutions.
  • Assist in laying out workpieces based on measurements and technical drawings.
  • Perform post-weld finishing tasks, including grinding and smoothing weld seams.
  • Work effectively as part of a team, supporting senior technicians and coordinating with other trades to ensure timely project completion.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must have at least 3 years of experience welding, in a marine or shipyard environment, or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
  • Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in multiple welding techniques and a strong understanding of welding procedures and safety standards.
  • Must be proficient in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation.
  • Must be able to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
  • Must be proficient in Stick Welding (SMAW) and Flux Core Welding (FCAW) techniques in the horizontal, vertical and overhead positions.

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Previous technical training highly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications in welding, such as AWS (American Welding Society), or equivalent, are preferred.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Pay Range: $24.15 - $30.55
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate's relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees' best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).

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