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Subcontractor Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Field Welding Engineer

Pecos, TX

$35 - $48.25/hr

In this role, you will lead a team to implement and manage field and subcontractor welding programs and provide technical direction to support project welding initiatives. You will review scheduled ...

Lead Field Welding Engineer

Pecos, TX · On-site

$35 - $48.25/hr

In this role, you will lead a team to implement and manage field and subcontractor welding programs and provide technical direction to support project welding initiatives. You will review scheduled ...

Welding Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$34.75 - $47.75/hr

... of subcontractors for welding fabrication activities. • Assist in defining material requirements, inspections, testing standards, and welding equipment suitability. • Identify, manage, and ...

Welding Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$34.75 - $47.75/hr

Support evaluation and approval of subcontractors for welding fabrication activities. * Assist in defining material requirements, inspections, testing standards, and welding equipment suitability.

Welding Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT

$34.75 - $47.75/hr

Support evaluation and approval of subcontractors for welding fabrication activities. * Assist in defining material requirements, inspections, testing standards, and welding equipment suitability.

Field Welding Engineer

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$33.25 - $45.75/hr

Schedules and coordinates NDE with construction and subcontractors for the most efficient NDE ... Performs field inspections of welding work, and advises on rectification of quality behaviors and ...

The Welding Technician welds all types of metals, designing, fabricating, and repairing equipment ... that offers specialized subcontracting and technical assistance services related to ...

The Welding Technician welds all types of metals, designing, fabricating, and repairing equipment ... that offers specialized subcontracting and technical assistance services related to ...

Field Welding Engineer

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$34 - $46.75/hr

Schedules and coordinates NDE with construction and subcontractors for the most efficient NDE ... Performs field inspections of welding work, and advises on rectification of quality behaviors and ...

The Welding Technician welds all types of metals, designing, fabricating, and repairing equipment ... that offers specialized subcontracting and technical assistance services related to ...

Welding Field Engineer

Port Arthur, TX · On-site

$31.25 - $43/hr

Coordinates work activities of subcontractor and direct-hire pre/ PWHT personnel. * Possesses working knowledge of Bechtel's corporate pre/PWHT procedure (PHT-2) and other welding procedures ...

Welding Field Engineer

Port Arthur, TX

$30.25 - $41.75/hr

Coordinates work activities of subcontractor and direct-hire pre/ PWHT personnel. * Possesses working knowledge of Bechtel's corporate pre/PWHT procedure (PHT-2) and other welding procedures ...

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Subcontractor Welding information

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$14

$29

$45

How much do subcontractor welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for subcontractor welding in the United States is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a subcontractor welder?

To become a subcontractor welder, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete welding training or an apprenticeship, and obtain relevant certifications such as AWS or ASME. Experience in welding techniques, safety knowledge, and the ability to work independently are essential, along with establishing a business license and insurance if working as an independent contractor.

What are some common challenges subcontractor welders face when working on-site with general contractors?

Subcontractor welders often encounter challenges related to coordinating schedules with other trades, adapting to varying site conditions, and meeting strict safety and quality standards imposed by general contractors. Communication and flexibility are crucial, as project timelines can shift and priorities may change rapidly. Additionally, subcontractor welders must be proactive in clarifying job specifications and documentation to ensure their work aligns with the overall project requirements and passes inspections.

What Does a Welding Subcontractor Do?

As a welding subcontractor, you provide welding services on a contract basis. Your responsibilities are to weld pipes or metal during a construction project. However, your specific duties may vary depending on the requirements of each project or contract. Some welders specialize in fitting and welding pipes or structural steel installations, while other professionals weld or solder steel or aluminum pieces together as part of a manufacturing project. In addition to operating welding equipment, clients may expect you to prepare surfaces for welding as well as inspect and test your work after completion.

What welding jobs pay $50 an hour?

Welding jobs that pay $50 an hour typically include skilled positions such as pipeline welders, industrial welders, and underwater welders, often requiring specialized certifications and experience. These roles are usually found in construction, manufacturing, or energy sectors and may involve overtime or hazardous environments to reach higher pay rates.

What are subcontractor welders?

Subcontractor welders are skilled tradespeople or companies that are hired by a primary contractor to perform welding work on a specific project or part of a larger job. They typically bring their own tools and expertise to handle welding tasks such as joining metals, fabricating structures, or repairing equipment according to project specifications. Subcontractor welders work under a contract for a set period or for the duration of a particular project, rather than as permanent employees. This arrangement allows primary contractors to access specialized welding skills as needed and manage labor costs effectively.

How much do independent contractor welders make?

Independent contractor welders typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and project complexity. Annual income can range from $40,000 to over $100,000 for those with specialized skills and steady work, often influenced by the industry and location. Many welders also charge higher rates for overtime or hazardous environments.

What is the difference between Subcontractor Welding vs Welder?

AspectSubcontractor WeldingWelder
CredentialsWelding certifications, often specialized for projectsWelding certifications required, varies by employer
Work EnvironmentOn-site, project-based, often outdoors or in industrial settingsWorkplaces vary from factories to construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageHired by contractors or companies for specific projectsEmployed directly by companies or as independent workers

Subcontractor welders typically operate as independent contractors or part of a subcontracting firm, focusing on specific projects and often working on-site in industrial or construction environments. Welders may work directly for an employer or as freelancers, performing welding tasks across various settings. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in employment structure and project scope.

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

To thrive as a Subcontractor Welder, you need strong welding skills, a solid understanding of blueprints, and relevant certifications such as AWS or equivalent. Familiarity with various welding processes (MIG, TIG, stick), safety protocols, and tools like welding machines and plasma cutters is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills for coordinating with clients and other contractors. These skills ensure high-quality workmanship, adherence to safety standards, and successful project completion within deadlines.

Can you make $300,000 as a welder?

Subcontractor welders can potentially earn $300,000 annually, especially if they work on high-paying projects, have specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience. Earnings vary based on location, project complexity, and workload, with some top-tier welders in the industry reaching high income levels through overtime and premium contracts.
What cities are hiring for Subcontractor Welding jobs? Cities with the most Subcontractor Welding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Subcontractor Welding jobs? The most popular types of Subcontractor Welding jobs are:
What states have the most Subcontractor Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Subcontractor Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Subcontractor Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Subcontractor Welding jobs are:
Infographic showing various Subcontractor Welding job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Lead Field Welding Engineer

Lead Field Welding Engineer

Bechtel

Pecos, TX

$35 - $48.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Bechtel rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

202nd of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Requisition ID: 297129 

  •  Relocation Authorized: National - Single 
  • Telework Type: Full-Time Office/Project 
  • Work Location: Pecos, TX
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:

Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place. 

Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations. Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report. 

Project Overview:

The rapid growth of AI and digitalization is fueling unprecedented demand for data centers that require large, reliable sources of energy. In response to this market trend, the Renewables & Clean Power (R&CP) team have signed an early works contract to build one of the largest gas fired power generation facilities in the U.S. This project is of significant scale and complexity, and our team is helping the customer progress early-stage development, that would lead to the start of full EPC delivery this year. The successful candidate will mobilize on a long-term (camp) assignment to Pecos, Texas. This position is contingent upon project award.

Job Summary:

As the Project Welding Engineer (Program Owner) for the installation of multiple General Electric 7HA.02 Simple Cycle power generating systems and T-350 simple blocks, you will be part of the Field Engineering team reporting to the Project Field Engineer. In this role, you will lead a team to implement and manage field and subcontractor welding programs and provide technical direction to support project welding initiatives. You will review scheduled work plans, provide input to production meetings, and conduct program audits. Your leadership will ensure welding program compliance and availability of welder resources to support planned work scopes. #LI-BH1

Major Responsibilities:
  • Implements and maintains Bechtel Field Welding program, may also be assigned as Lead Field Welding Engineer on large projects
  • Provides specialized welding engineering support for construction to ensure construction meets all code, client/engineering specifications and Bechtel procedures and standards.
  • Management of the pre- and post-weld heat treatment program.
  • Assists in the management of the rod room and rod room attendant to ensure all weld filler materials are controlled so to meet Bechtel, Code, and Client requirements.
  • Schedules and coordinates NDE with construction and subcontractors for the most efficient NDE schedule at the least cost and least impact to construction.
  • Manages and monitors the welding test lab to ensure high quality welders are being tested and hired.
  • Works with the team to review and keep up to date with weld documents and ensures the credibility/accountability of the Welding Program.
  • Manages issues and maintains welder qualifications and welder stamps.
  • Performs field inspections of welding work, and advises on rectification of quality behaviors and defects prior to final inspection
  • May be responsible for the implementation and leads the subcontractors and direct hire Pre/PWHT program.
  • Implements welding inspection tracking utilizing TEAMworks/WITS applications.
Education and Experience Requirements:
  • Requires bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) and 5-8 years of relevant experience or 9 -12 years of relevant work experience​

Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • NDE Certs including VT, PT, MT and RT.
  • Knowledge of AWS, API, NFPA, AWWA, ASTM and ASNT codes, specifications, and standards.
  • Heavy industrial direct hire construction experience commensurate with the type of work to be undertaken.
  • Advanced knowledge and/or certifications in SMAW / GTAW / GMAW / FCAW.
  • Advanced understanding of Preheat/Post weld heat treatment of equipment and consumables.
  • Knowledge of engineering and construction methods and processes customarily acquired over time through specialized instruction or practical experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to motivate team members effectively & positively in a collaborative team environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to problem-solve in high pressure situations.
  • Experience on an HRSG / Power Boiler construction projects.
  • Strong technical background and knowledge of all phases of welding applications, and non-destructive examination relating to construction activities.
  • Understanding of applicable Bechtel work processes including Standard Work Process Procedures.
  • Advanced knowledge of Piping Design Drawings/Specifications and Teamwork’s/WITS.
  • Must be certifiable by written examination to Bechtel's nondestructive examination requirements as NDE Level II Visual and Radiographic Examination.
  • Knowledge and understanding of Bechtel's SWPP 4MP-T81-03701 Welding Program, 03708 Pre/Post Weld Heat Treatment and 03705 Welding & NDE Documentation.
  • Familiarity with Bechtel Standard Applications (BSAPs) including Unifier, Aconex, DSCS, PTR, Agile, Navisworks, WITs, Teamwork’s, Arc Stryker, Pipe Fighter, and other automation tools which are used on Bechtel projects.
Total Rewards/Benefits:

For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at bechtel.com/total-rewards.

Diverse teams build the extraordinary:

As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent. We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.

Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com


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