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Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship Jobs in Seattle, WA

Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$6

$53

$94

How much do temporary rig welding apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary rig welding apprenticeship in Seattle, WA is $53.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.66 and $54.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary rig welding apprenticeship?

A Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship is a short-term training position designed for individuals interested in learning how to weld on oil rigs or similar industrial sites. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced welders to gain practical skills, including operating welding equipment, following safety protocols, and understanding rig-specific welding techniques. This apprenticeship provides hands-on experience and can lead to permanent employment or further certifications in the welding field. Temporary positions typically last for a few months and offer valuable industry exposure.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and hands-on learning during a temporary rig welding apprenticeship?

During a Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship, you will work closely under the supervision of experienced welders who act as mentors, providing guidance on proper welding techniques, safety procedures, and equipment use. Expect to spend much of your time on-site, performing hands-on tasks such as preparing materials, assisting with weld setup, and practicing different welding methods under real-world conditions. This immersive environment is designed to help you rapidly build practical skills, receive immediate feedback, and become comfortable working within a team. Apprentices often rotate between tasks, giving them exposure to various aspects of rig welding and preparing them for more advanced roles in the future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary rig welding apprentice, and why are they important?

To excel as a Temporary Rig Welding Apprentice, you need basic welding knowledge, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or GED, often supplemented by entry-level safety certifications like OSHA 10. Familiarity with welding equipment, measuring tools, and safety systems such as PPE are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and willingness to learn help apprentices adapt quickly and work safely in demanding environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring quality work, minimizing accidents, and building a solid foundation for a long-term welding career.

What is the difference between Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship vs Rig Welder?

AspectTemporary Rig Welding ApprenticeshipRig Welder
CertificationsBasic welding certifications, apprenticeship programsAdvanced welding certifications, specialized skills
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised, temporary positionsFull-time, permanent positions on rigs or construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs for entry-level workers in oil & gas, constructionExperienced professionals working on offshore/onshore rigs

The Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship is a training program designed for beginners to gain skills and certifications, often in a temporary or entry-level capacity. In contrast, a Rig Welder is a fully qualified professional with advanced skills, working permanently in the industry. The apprenticeship provides foundational experience, while the Rig Welder role involves executing complex welding tasks in demanding environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rig Welding Apprenticeship jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Rig Welding Apprenticeship jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Rig Welding Apprenticeship job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,257 per year, or $53 per hour.

Refrigeration Mechanic - UW Medical Center-Montlake

Uw

Seattle, WA • On-site

$41.01/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


University Of Washington rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description

The University of Washington Medical Center Montlake Maintenance has an outstanding opportunity for a full-time day shift REFRIGERATION MECHANIC. This position will work independently on refrigeration maintenance and repair projects in the University of Washington Medical Center Montlake.

WORK SCHEDULE

  • Monday - Friday
  • 6:25 AM - 2:25 PM
  • No call, evenings, nights or weekends required

PRIMARY DUTIES:

  • Perform skilled journey-level work in the installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration, air-conditioning, and chilled water equipment, systems and controls.
  • Pump specified gas or fluid into system.
  • Start system, observe operation, read gauges and instruments, and adjust mechanisms such as valves, controls, and pumps to control level of fluid, pressure, and temperature in system.
  • Dismantle malfunctioning systems and tests components.
  • Replace or adjust defective or worn parts to repair systems.
  • Install wiring to connect components to electric power source.
  • Perform Preventive Maintenance on all air-conditioners, refrigeration, and chiller equipment.
  • Lift or hoist and align components into position.
  • Screw bolt, rivet, weld, and braze parts to assemble structural and functional components such as motors, controls, switches, gauges, wiring harnesses, valves, pumps, compressors, condensers, cores, and pipes.
  • Install, operate, maintain, and repair all types of refrigeration systems, including air-conditioning, chilled water systems, and refrigeration units including: Chillers, walk-in freezers, refrigerators, ice makers, specialty lab freezers & refrigerators.
  • Diagnose, inspect, troubleshoot, and overhaul electrical control circuits, temperature and pressure controls, and all related refrigeration components using manuals, blueprints, and equipment knowledge.
  • Interact with co-workers and customers in a positive and productive manner, exhibiting and providing excellent customer service skills.
  • Test coils, valves, and connections to determine that systems are leak proof and properly adjusted.
  • Operate and maintain cooling towers, including water treatments systems.
  • Recharge Units with proper refrigerant when necessary and maintain and repair compressor units and departmental research refrigeration equipment.
  • Test, make measurements, and adjust all types of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems for most efficient performance.
  • May lead or instruct helpers as required

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Completion of a recognized apprenticeship as a refrigeration mechanic; OR full journey status as a refrigeration mechanic in a union; OR four years' applicable work experience.
  • Vocational training may be substituted for work experience on a year-for-year basis.
  • Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required.
  • Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.
  • Universal EPA refrigeration license is required

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$41.01 hourly

Pay Range Maximum:

$54.65 hourly

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

WFSE Skilled Trades

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.


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