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Subcontract Welder Jobs in Ridgefield, WA (NOW HIRING)

Greenberry

Estimating Manager

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

Welding, testing (NDE), and QA/QC considerations The Estimating Manager is responsible for leading ... Evaluate subcontractor and vendor quotations for scope, pricing, and alignment with bid strategy.

AVI, LLC

Commercial Roofing Crew

Portland, OR · On-site

Subcontractor to follow all OSHA requirements. * Remove the existing wall and penetration flashings ... The membrane sheets will be hot air welded. Each seam will be probed to ensure securement. The ...

Vigor, LLC

QA Representative, Structural

Portland, OR · On-site

$42/hr

Also ensures all subcontractor required quality assurance submittals are correct and fulfill ... Knowledge of AWS D1.1 and ASME Sect IX welding codes. * Knowledge and working experience with ...

NWPX Infrastructure, Inc.

Estimator

Portland, OR · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

... manufacture welded steel pipe and precast products that form the backbone of America's water ... or subcontractors, and determining cost effectiveness. * Consults with Sales and provides Sales ...

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All JobsSubcontract Welder JobsSubcontract Welder Jobs in Ridgefield, WA

Subcontract Welder information

See Ridgefield, WA salary details

$15

$25

$35

How much do subcontract welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for subcontract welder in Ridgefield, WA is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a subcontract welder?

A subcontract welder is a skilled tradesperson who is hired by a contractor or company on a project-by-project basis to perform welding tasks. Unlike full-time employees, subcontract welders typically work independently or for a small business, providing specialized welding services as needed. Their responsibilities include reading blueprints, selecting appropriate welding techniques, and ensuring high-quality welds according to project specifications. Subcontract welders can work in various industries, such as construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and oil and gas. They must adhere to safety standards and often supply their own tools and equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a subcontract welder?

To thrive as a Subcontract Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques, blueprint reading, and a recognized welding certification such as AWS or equivalent. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes experience with specific welding processes like MIG, TIG, or Stick welding are typically required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication skills help ensure project accuracy and safety on diverse job sites. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality welds, maintaining safety standards, and building a reputation for dependable subcontract work.

What are the typical challenges a subcontract welder faces when working on multiple job sites?

Subcontract Welders often work at various job sites, which means adapting quickly to different work environments, equipment, and safety protocols. This role requires excellent time management to coordinate with main contractors and other trades, as well as flexibility to meet shifting project deadlines. Effective communication is crucial to understand project requirements and ensure quality standards are met, as each site may have unique specifications and expectations. Additionally, maintaining and transporting personal tools and certifications between locations can pose logistical challenges.

What is the difference between Subcontract Welder vs Pipe Welder?

AspectSubcontract WelderPipe Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, industrial projectsOil & gas pipelines, refineries, industrial plants
Employer & Industry UsageContracting companies, construction firmsPipeline companies, industrial facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for project-based workSpecialized in pipe welding tasks

Both Subcontract Welders and Pipe Welders require similar certifications and work in industrial environments. However, Subcontract Welders typically work on diverse projects for various clients, while Pipe Welders focus specifically on pipe fabrication and installation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity.

What job categories do people searching Subcontract Welder jobs in Ridgefield, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Subcontract Welder jobs in Ridgefield, WA are:

What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Subcontract Welder jobs?

Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Subcontract Welder job openings:

Subcontract Welder jobs near you

Project Manager/Estimator - Vancouver/Portland

Washington Equipment Manufacturing Company, Inc

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$82K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop accurate project estimates by reviewing customer drawings, specifications, RFQs, and project requirements.

  • Manage projects from initial customer inquiry through final completion by coordinating engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, and field operations.

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, communicating project status, schedule updates, and change notifications.

Job description

Company Background
Washington Equipment Manufacturing Company, Inc. (WEMCO, Inc.) is a contract manufacturer specializing in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of productivity-enhancing solutions including overhead cranes for material handling, automated aerospace tooling and components, agricultural equipment, and custom machinery used in a variety of industries worldwide.
Founded on the principles of innovative engineering and quality craftsmanship, WEMCO's leadership team brings more than 70 years of combined experience in welding, fabrication, engineering, and heavy equipment design. Our fully integrated manufacturing facility performs nearly every aspect of production in-house, including engineering, machining, fabrication, welding, painting, assembly, testing, and installation.
Visit our website to learn more about our work:
www.wemcoinc.com
Location
Vancouver/Portland Area
Job Purpose
The Project Manager/Estimator is responsible for both developing accurate project estimates and successfully managing awarded projects from initial customer inquiry through final completion. This position serves as a primary point of contact for customers throughout the sales and execution process while coordinating engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, and field operations to ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
The successful candidate will prepare detailed cost estimates and proposals, review specifications and drawings, manage project schedules and budgets, coordinate internal resources, procure materials, communicate with customers and suppliers, and oversee project execution from kickoff through delivery and installation.
Job Responsibilities
Estimating & Sales Support
  • Review customer drawings, specifications, RFQs, and project requirements.
  • Prepare accurate cost estimates for labor, materials, purchased components, subcontractors, shipping, and installation.
  • Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations.
  • Develop pricing strategies while maintaining profitability and competitiveness.
  • Prepare professional proposals, quotations, and bid packages.
  • Identify project risks, exclusions, assumptions, and value engineering opportunities.
  • Work closely with customers to clarify project scope, specifications, and expectations.
  • Participate in customer meetings, pre-bid meetings, and site visits as required.
  • Assist Business Development with technical support during the quoting process.

Project Management
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customers throughout project execution.
  • Develop integrated project schedules including critical paths and key milestones.
  • Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and in accordance with customer expectations.
  • Coordinate engineering, purchasing, production, quality, shipping, and field service activities.
  • Monitor project budgets, schedules, labor hours, procurement, and overall project performance.
  • Manage project documentation, change orders, RFIs, and customer communications.
  • Negotiate scope changes and incorporate approved changes into project schedules and budgets.
  • Coordinate purchasing activities and ensure timely procurement of materials and long-lead items.
  • Assist Operations & Production Management with production scheduling and workload planning.
  • Create work instructions that accompany fabricated parts and assemblies throughout manufacturing.
  • Track project performance using appropriate metrics and provide regular status updates to executive management.
  • Perform post-project reviews to evaluate project profitability, identify lessons learned, and recommend process improvements.

Technical Responsibilities
  • Review engineering drawings for manufacturability and completeness.
  • Perform drawing reviews and provide approvals prior to manufacturing release.
  • Diagnose project issues and develop practical solutions to maintain project schedules.
  • Coordinate with engineering regarding design revisions and customer-requested changes.
  • Maintain accurate project records including drawings, revisions, purchase orders, schedules, and correspondence.
  • Support installation planning and coordinate with field personnel when required.

Customer & Vendor Relations
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.
  • Conduct customer meetings throughout the lifecycle of assigned projects.
  • Communicate project status, schedule updates, and change notifications in a timely manner.
  • Travel occasionally to customer facilities for project meetings, site evaluations, installations, or troubleshooting.

Job Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or a related field is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Prior experience in estimating, project management, manufacturing, heavy equipment, structural steel, overhead cranes, industrial machinery, or custom fabrication is preferred.
  • We are willing to train the right candidate with strong mechanical aptitude and project coordination skills.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, specifications, and fabrication documents.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of manufacturing processes.
  • Excellent mathematical and analytical skills.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multiple departments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
  • Experience with ERP/MRP systems is preferred.
  • Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to prepare accurate cost estimates and manage project budgets.
  • Clean driving record with the ability to operate company vehicles as needed.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Passport for occasional travel.
  • Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
  • Occasional travel to customer sites and WEMCO facilities will be required for project coordination, commissioning support, and engineering reviews.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience estimating custom manufacturing or fabrication projects.
  • Knowledge of welding, machining, fabrication, overhead cranes, or industrial equipment.
  • Experience interpreting customer specifications and contract documents.
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar CAD software is a plus.
  • Experience with Microsoft Project or other project management software is preferred.
  • Understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives is a plus.

Benefits
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Supplemental Insurance through Colonial Life
  • Opportunities for Professional Development and Continuing Education
  • Occasional Travel to Customer Sites and WEMCO Facilities

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