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Storage Tank Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Storage Tank Welding information

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How much do storage tank welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for storage tank welding in Virginia is $28.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.12 and $31.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a storage tank welding?

A Storage Tank Welding job involves fabricating, assembling, and repairing large metal storage tanks used in industries such as oil and gas, water treatment, and chemical processing. Welders use techniques like MIG, TIG, and arc welding to join and reinforce steel plates, ensuring the tanks meet safety and quality standards. The job requires knowledge of welding procedures, blueprint reading, and industry regulations. Workers often operate in outdoor or confined environments, sometimes at elevated heights. Proper safety measures, including protective gear and ventilation equipment, are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in storage tank welding?

To excel in Storage Tank Welding, you need advanced welding skills, knowledge of industry safety standards, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supported by technical training or apprenticeship. Certification in welding processes such as SMAW, MIG, or TIG, and familiarity with tools like welding machines, grinders, and safety gear, are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork abilities set top professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure that storage tanks are constructed or maintained to rigorous quality and safety standards, minimizing risks and maximizing operational reliability.

What are some typical challenges faced in storage tank welding?

Storage tank welding often involves working in confined spaces, at heights, or outdoors in various weather conditions, which can present safety and comfort challenges. Managing consistent weld quality on curved or large surfaces and meeting strict inspection requirements adds another layer of complexity. Welders must also coordinate with other trades on site, including inspectors and project managers, to ensure projects stay on schedule and within quality guidelines. Being adaptable and safety-conscious is crucial for overcoming these challenges and succeeding in the role.

How to become a storage tank welder?

To become a storage tank welder, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, gain welding experience through apprenticeships or technical training, and obtain certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) certification. Knowledge of welding techniques like SMAW or GTAW and understanding of safety standards are essential for working on storage tanks, which often require specialized skills due to the materials and environments involved.

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

The most popular types of Storage Tank Welding jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Storage Tank Welding jobs in Virginia?

For Storage Tank Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Storage Tank Welding jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Storage Tank Welding jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Storage Tank Welding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,624 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

1st Class Field (Manual) Machinist - Steel America (Job ID: 1281)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Job description

1st Class Field Manual Machinist - Steel America
Purpose:
Steel America, a business unit of Colonna's Shipyard, is seeking 1st Class Manual Field Machinists to work multiple on & off-site projects in and around Norfolk, VA.
Job Description:
  • Routine blueprint reading and technical writing to accomplish work tasks.
  • Daily use of tools such as micrometers, height gauges, Vernier calipers, and dividing heads to support tasking.
  • Operate machine tools in varying tolerances according to need (from ½ thousands upwards).
  • Non routine maintenance and repair the portable machines tools.
  • Routine use of hoisting and rigging equipment for heavy pieces such as forklifts and chain falls
  • Responsible for system tolerance determination and application.
  • Daily tasking will involve work on the following:
    • Rudders and Steering systems to include blue checking and fitting, piano wire alignment method, stock straightness determination, hydraulic and pneumatic controls.
    • Bearings and Bushings to include lubrication types and methods, piano wire fit and alignment method, dial indicator alignment.
    • Engines, Motors, and Generators: diesel engines, gas or steam turbines, generators, motors, reduction gears, clutches, PTO's, mount arrangements, systems flushing, heat exchanger (shell/tube and plate/frame), heat exchanger and systems leak testing.
    • Propulsion Shafting to include: CPP shafting, hydraulic couplings, clearance (water bearings), wear downs (oil bearings), Piano wire alignment method, dial indicator alignment, FRP spark test, bearing contact determination, shaft straightness (run out) determination.
    • Seals to include gaskets, packing, and "O"-rings, lips & labyrinth, mechanical, tightness testing.
    • Valve work: leak testing, seat types, packing/gasketing/lubrication, lapping, seat types (materials and types).
    • Propellers to include Keyed, Tapered, Flanged & Key fits- Solid and Built, CPP Systems, Polishing.
    • K. Pumps to include Valving (internal & external), Bearing & Sealing arrangements, Alignment (dial indicator & laser).
    • Deck machinery: gear boxes, bearings/seal arrangements, alignments, drivers (electric, mechanical, or hydraulic), sheaves, cables, turrets, booms
  • Instruct lower classes of machinists, manage work/personnel assignments and the requisition of job materials.
  • Upholding a safe work environment is key daily tasks require safe handling/use/storage of gasses; safe work practices; PPE; tank safe opening practices; lock-out/tag-out; confined space practices; respirator/harness fit; oil spill response.

Qualifications:
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least seven (7) years of experience as a Machinist.
  • Must have experience with manual lathes and mills.
  • Must be able to read and comprehend blueprints, drawings and other technical trade related documents
  • Must have adept mechanical ability, manual dexterity, and hand/eye coordination required to perform various projects, per drawings, sketches, and verbal or written instructions.
  • Must have clean driving record.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Technical training preferred.

Security Requirements:
  • Position requires you to gain and maintain access to government and military installations, often requiring completion of stringent background checks and screenings.
  • May require the ability to obtain and maintain appropriate level of security clearance depending on the contract.
  • Must be able to provide proper documentation as needed to process access/clearance (e.g. birth certificate, identification card, etc.).

Travel Requirements:
  • Frequent Travel; 50% or less.
  • International travel required on a nonstandard routine.

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.
Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: $27.03 - $37.81
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)