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Structural Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

1st Class Structural Welder - Steel America Purpose: Steel America, a division of Colonna ... Instruct apprentices and fellow welders with job assignments and overall mentoring. * Be able to ...

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Structural Apprentice information

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$11

$20

$36

How much do structural apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural apprentice in Virginia is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying apprentice job?

Among apprentice roles, those in specialized trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC often have higher pay rates due to technical skill requirements. For example, electrical apprentices working in industrial or commercial settings can earn higher wages compared to general apprentices, especially with additional certifications or experience. Overall, apprentices in skilled trades tend to earn more than those in entry-level or non-technical fields.

Is there a demand for structural engineers?

There is strong demand for structural engineers, especially in construction, infrastructure, and building design sectors. The role often requires knowledge of engineering software and adherence to safety standards, making it a stable career choice with growth opportunities.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for a structural apprentice; individuals of various ages, including 27, can pursue apprenticeships in construction and structural work. Employers often value skills, commitment, and safety awareness, and many apprenticeships welcome mature learners who bring life experience and dedication. Age should not be a barrier to starting a structural apprenticeship if you meet the program requirements and are motivated to learn the trade.

What are the 4 types of apprenticeships?

The four main types of apprenticeships are traditional, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction; technical, focused on specific skills and certifications; cooperative education, integrating work experience with academic study; and hybrid, which blends elements of the other types. For a structural apprentice, these programs often include hands-on training in construction sites, safety protocols, and technical coursework.

What is the difference between Structural Apprentice vs Structural Ironworker?

AspectStructural ApprenticeStructural Ironworker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training; apprenticeship programsHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or technical training; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, training facilities, workshopsConstruction sites, working at heights, outdoors
Industry UsageEntry-level role in construction industry, focusing on learning and assistingSkilled tradesperson responsible for installing and assembling steel structures

The main difference is that a Structural Apprentice is in training, gaining skills and experience, while a Structural Ironworker is a trained professional responsible for installing steel frameworks. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for a career as an Ironworker, who performs the actual construction work on-site.

What are Structural Apprentices?

Structural Apprentices are entry-level trainees who work under experienced structural workers, such as ironworkers or steel fabricators, to learn the skills needed for constructing and maintaining buildings, bridges, and other structures. Their training includes reading blueprints, assembling frameworks, installing metal components, and learning safety procedures. Structural Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing individuals for a career in the structural trades. This role is essential for gaining practical experience and working toward becoming a certified structural worker or journeyman.

What types of projects and tasks can a Structural Apprentice expect to work on during their training?

As a Structural Apprentice, you will typically assist in constructing, assembling, and repairing structural frameworks and building components under the supervision of experienced tradespeople. Your daily tasks may include measuring materials, cutting and shaping steel or wood, installing beams, and following blueprints or technical drawings. Apprentices often rotate through different job sites, gaining exposure to residential, commercial, or industrial projects, which helps broaden their skillset. Collaboration with other trades, like electricians and plumbers, is common, and you'll learn to work efficiently within a team to meet project deadlines.

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

To thrive as a Structural Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, the ability to read blueprints, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and sometimes OSHA certification are typically required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure quality workmanship, a safe work environment, and successful collaboration with experienced tradespeople.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Structural jobs in Virginia are:
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What job categories do people searching Structural Apprentice jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Apprentice jobs in Virginia are:
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Structural Apprentice jobs near you
1st Class Structural Welder (Inside Machine Shop) - Steel America (Job ID: 1217)

1st Class Structural Welder (Inside Machine Shop) - Steel America (Job ID: 1217)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

1st Class Structural Welder - Steel America
Purpose:
Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, is seeking a 1st Class Structural Welder to support operations in the Inside Machine Shop at our site in Norfolk, VA.
Job Description:
  • Weld together metal components of products, as specified by blueprints, weld symbols, material markings, work order, welding procedures, or verbal instructions, using welding equipment.
  • Prepare all material surfaces to be welded, ensuring that there is no loose or thick mil scale, slag, rust, moisture, grease, or other foreign matter.
  • Complete weld processes in flat, horizontal, vertical, or overhead positions.
  • Operate manual or semi-automatic welding equipment to fuse metal segments, using processes such as gas metal arc, flux-cored arc, shielded metal arc, and submerged arc welding.
  • Clean or degrease weld joint or work piece, using wire brush, portable grinder, or chemical bath. May repair broken or cracked parts and fill holes.
  • Set up and operate welding equipment and select proper electrodes according to material types to be joined and procedurally required.
  • Preform grinding and joint preparation for NDT processes.
  • Flux cored inner shield and dual shield welding along with oxy-acetylene torching, air-arc, weld-wire gas, stick and pipe flange.
  • Read and understand the Chemist and Competent Persons reports and determine if job sites, particularly those involving combustible material, are safe for personnel and hot work.
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment hard hat, safety glasses, steel toe boots/shoes and, when necessary, respirator.
  • Instruct apprentices and fellow welders with job assignments and overall mentoring.
  • Be able to perform duties with little to no supervision.
  • Maintain a high level of first pass through rate on production welding inspections.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Must have at least seven (7) years' experience as a Welder.
  • Must be able to demonstrate ability to perform multi-pass, all position fillet and butt welds using SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) and FCAW (Flux Cored Arc Welding)
  • Must be able to demonstrate ability to perform GTAW 6G pipe welding and GMAW-P all positions.
  • Must have knowledge of welding techniques, mirror welding, preheat and inter-pass temperature, tools and equipment
  • Must have knowledge of and ability to use hand tools and instruments associated with the trade to include but not limited to fillet weld gauges, V-WAC gauge, CAM Gauge, temp sticks, and preheat application tooling.
  • Must be able to work effectively and efficiently with others.
  • Must be able to comprehend weld sequence sketches, and templates.
  • Must have ability to enter and move through manholes to reach and work in internally confined spaces.
  • Must be a steady and reliable worker that maintains regular and consistent attendance.
  • Must be able to follow instructions.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience working with or around manual or CNC machinery highly preferred.
  • Experience with sub-arc (SAW) welding highly 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.
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).

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