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Union Welding Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Union Welding information

See Alaska salary details

$16

$32

$48

How much do union welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for union welding in Alaska is $32.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.10 and $36.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges union welders face on job sites, and how can they effectively address them?

Union welders often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, adapting to strict safety protocols, and managing tight project deadlines. To address these, it's important to stay updated on safety standards, communicate proactively with supervisors and team members, and participate in ongoing union-led training. Building strong relationships within your crew and leveraging the union’s support resources can also help you navigate job site difficulties and maintain high-quality work.

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 technical welding skills, a solid understanding of blueprints and safety protocols, and usually completion of an apprenticeship or vocational training with applicable certifications like AWS. Proficiency in using welding equipment, tools, and safety systems is expected, along with knowledge of various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring project accuracy and collaborating with diverse crews. These competencies are crucial to ensure high-quality, safe, and efficient workmanship on complex construction and industrial projects.

What is the difference between Union Welding vs Non-Union Welding?

AspectUnion WeldingNon-Union Welding
CredentialsTypically requires union certifications and training programsMay require similar certifications but less standardized
Work EnvironmentOften in unionized shops, construction sites, or industrial settings with collective bargainingVaries widely; includes private companies, freelance, or non-union shops
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects with union contractsPrevalent in private sector, small businesses, or freelance work
Work Conditions & BenefitsTypically better benefits, job security, and adherence to union standardsBenefits vary; may lack union protections and standardized wages

Union Welding involves working under union contracts with standardized wages and benefits, often in industrial or construction settings. Non-Union Welding offers more flexibility but may lack the same level of job security and benefits. The choice depends on career goals, desired work environment, and industry preferences.

What is union welding?

Union welding refers to welding jobs where the welder is a member of a labor union. These unions represent welders and negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions on their behalf. Union welders often work on large-scale construction projects, such as bridges, buildings, and pipelines, and they must usually meet certain qualification standards set by the union. Being part of a union can offer job security, training opportunities, and legal support for welders.
What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Alaska? The most popular types of Welding jobs in Alaska are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Welding jobs in Alaska? For Union Welding jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Welding jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Union Welding jobs in Alaska are:
What cities in Alaska are hiring for Union Welding jobs? Cities in Alaska with the most Union Welding job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Welding job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,728 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

PORT ENGINEER / MACHINIST

Canfisco Group

Ketchikan, AK • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

PORT ENGINEER / MACHINIST

Alaska General Seafoods Ketchikan

Position Overview

Alaska General Seafoods Ketchikan is seeking an experienced and dependable Port Engineer/Machinist to support seasonal operations at our seafood processing facility in Ketchikan, Alaska. This position is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing plant equipment, processing machinery, and facility systems to ensure safe and efficient operations throughout the production season.

The Port Engineer/Machinist works closely with multiple departments to maintain continuous product flow and minimize equipment downtime. This position requires availability from approximately May 15 through the first week of September, depending on production requirements and the salmon run.

This position reports directly to the Plant Manager.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of seafood processing equipment and machinery.
  • Maintain and repair conveyors, hydraulic tote dumpers, pumps, motors, gearboxes, and related production equipment.
  • Inspect, diagnose, and repair hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical systems.
  • Perform maintenance, repairs, and installations on fishing vessels and vessel support equipment as assigned.
  • Conduct preventive maintenance inspections to minimize equipment downtime.
  • Diagnose mechanical failures and implement timely repairs in both shop and field environments.
  • Perform minor welding, fabrication, and metal repair work.
  • Maintain accurate service records, repair logs, and maintenance documentation.
  • Monitor inventory and maintain adequate stock levels of parts, oils, lubricants, fittings, and maintenance supplies.
  • Support plant operations by coordinating maintenance activities with production and other departments.
  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including applicable Process Safety Management (PSM) requirements.
  • Respond to routine and emergency maintenance calls as needed.
  • Assist with seasonal startup, shutdown, and facility improvement projects.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications Required Qualifications
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot and repair industrial equipment.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret repair manuals, technical drawings, and schematics.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a production-driven team.
  • Ability to complete required maintenance documentation accurately.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Three (3) or more years of experience as a Port Engineer, Machinist, Marine Mechanic, Industrial Maintenance Technician, or related position.
  • Experience maintaining seafood processing equipment.
  • Experience with conveyors, hydraulic systems, pumps, motors, and vessel support equipment.
  • Welding and metal fabrication experience.
  • Experience working in seafood processing, marine operations, shipyards, or industrial facilities.
Working Conditions
  • Ability to work long hours in wet, cold, and high-noise environments.
  • Regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and industrial equipment.
  • Exposure to chemicals, oils, lubricants, cleaning agents, and marine environments.
  • May work in elevated areas, confined spaces, and outdoor dockside conditions.
  • Schedule may require 8 to 16-hour shifts, up to seven (7) days per week, based on production needs.
  • Must be willing and able to work day or night shift as assigned.
  • Consistent and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Wage: TBD, based on experience.
  • Overtime is paid after eight (8) regular hours worked per day and forty (40) regular hours worked per week, in accordance with applicable labor agreements.
  • Housing, meals, and transportation provided.
  • Shipping of personal tools to and from the plant is covered by the company.
  • Union position.
Equal Employment Opportunity

Alaska General Seafoods is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.