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Union Welder Jobs in Three Rivers, MI (NOW HIRING)

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Heavy Equipment Field Technician 2

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

This is a union position and will be part of Operating Engineers Local 324. A Field Technician 2 ... Also, a Field Technician 2 may be asked to perform minor welding, fabricating, and machining ...

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Heavy Equipment Field Technician 2

Plainwell, MI · On-site

This is a union position and will be part of Operating Engineers Local 324. A Field Technician 2 ... Also, a Field Technician 2 may be asked to perform minor welding, fabricating, and machining ...

City of Battle Creek, MI

ASE Mechanic I

MI · On-site

$24.35/hr

Performs minor welding and cutting activities. * Prepares records, reports and analyzing written or ... Full-time employee benefits - Benefits vary slightly by union contract, employment agreement, or ...

All JobsUnion Welder JobsUnion Welder Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Union Welder information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do union welder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for union welder in Three Rivers, MI is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Union Welder?

A union welder performs welding duties for a company. You may work in the construction, shipbuilding, or manufacturing industries or any other industry that requires welding. You may weld steel skeletons or frames, rebar, or metal parts for products, machinery, or engineering projects. Your responsibilities can vary depending on where you work, but a union welder is always a union member. To become a union welder, you must join and pay dues to a workers’ union.

Can you make $100,000 as a welder?

Union welders can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, overtime, and working in remote or hazardous environments can also increase earning potential.

What are union welders?

Union welders are skilled tradespeople who join, shape, and repair metal pieces using various welding techniques while being members of a labor union. Being part of a union provides welders with benefits like collective bargaining for wages, job security, training opportunities, and workplace protections. Union welders often work on large-scale construction projects, shipbuilding, manufacturing, or infrastructure repair, ensuring high standards of safety and workmanship.

Is being a union welder worth it?

Union welders often earn higher wages and receive better benefits compared to non-union welders, along with job stability and access to training programs. However, the work can be physically demanding and may require working in challenging environments or overtime. Overall, many consider it a worthwhile career for those with the necessary skills and certifications.

What is the top pay for union welders?

Union welders typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, with top pay reaching around $60 or more in high-demand industries or regions. Experienced welders with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher wages, especially when working overtime or in hazardous environments.

What are some common challenges Union Welders face when working on large-scale construction projects?

Union Welders on large-scale construction projects often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and meeting tight project deadlines. Coordination with other trades and teams is essential, as welders may need to adjust their schedules based on site progress or material availability. Additionally, staying updated with evolving welding techniques and certifications can be demanding, but union support and ongoing training help address these challenges. Collaboration and adaptability are key to succeeding in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between Union Welder vs Commercial Welder?

AspectUnion WelderCommercial Welder
CertificationsOften requires union certifications and credentialsMay require similar certifications but less likely union-specific
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in unionized shops, construction sites, or industrial facilitiesWorks in various settings including construction, manufacturing, and repair shops
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by unionized companies in construction, shipbuilding, and heavy industryEmployed by private companies, contractors, or as independent contractors

Union Welders typically work in unionized environments with specific certifications and benefits, focusing on large-scale projects. Commercial Welders work across diverse settings, often with similar skills but may not be unionized. Both roles require welding certifications, but union welders often have additional union-specific credentials and protections.

Can you join the union as a welder?

Yes, welders can join labor unions such as the United Association or the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, which represent skilled trades including welding. Union membership often requires meeting experience, completing apprenticeship programs, and passing relevant certifications like AWS welding certifications. Being part of a union can provide benefits such as collective bargaining, job security, and access to training programs.

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

To thrive as a Union Welder, you need strong welding skills, a solid understanding of blueprints, and completion of an apprenticeship or relevant certification such as AWS (American Welding Society) credentials. Familiarity with welding tools, safety equipment, and fabrication machines is essential, along with adherence to industry safety standards. Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure welds meet strict quality and safety requirements, supporting the reliability and safety of structures in construction and manufacturing.
More about Union Welder jobs
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Union Welder jobs near you

Fitter/Welder Career 1st Shift

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Union City, MI

$19.75 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Arcosa Shoring Products, is seeking multiple Full Time 1st shift Fitter/Welder in our Union City, MI plant to meet increased production demands. As a Fitter/Welder, you’ll lay out, position, align, and fit together fabricated parts of metal according to layouts, work orders, blueprints, schematics, and sketches in preparation for welding. You’ll also tack-weld pieces together using mig welders.

Arcosa Shoring Products makes trench shoring equipment for the construction industry. Our dedicated team builds high-quality trench shields and shoring products that are made to last. 

Schedule:    Monday - Friday: 6am-3:30pm

Compensation:  Competitive wages, regular opportunities for merit increases, professional growth opportunities, and incentives for outstanding performance as a company.

Benefits: Arcosa is proud to offer competitive benefits and programs to help you and your family meet your healthcare and retirement planning needs. Employees are eligible for various benefits on the first day of the month, following 30 days of employment!

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • 401k with Employer Match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Bonus Program

What you’ll do:

  • Fit and weld sub-assemblies into final product
  • Perform flat and horizontal groove welds
  • Accurately measure within specified tolerances
  • Read blueprints
  • Perform flat and horizontal fillet welds

Desired qualifications:

  • Minimum of 1 year mig welding experience
  • Qualified to weld steel and aluminum
  • Ideal candidate will hold a AWS Certification
  • Experience reading specifications, shop drawings, schematics, and blueprints
  • Regular and predictable attendance 
  • Must be able to pass a 2 part weld test as part of the interview process

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