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Union Welding Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Union Welding information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$14

$28

$43

How much do union welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for union welding in Oak Ridge, TN is $28.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $32.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Union Welding jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For Union Welding jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Union Welding jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Welding jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Union Welding jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Union Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Union Welding job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,237 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Field Quality Control Inspector / CWI

Sterling Boiler & Mechanical

Kingston, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description


Sterling Industrial, headquartered in Evansville, Indiana was founded and incorporated in 1982. Our company began and grew from a need for swift, reliable service for utilities in southern Indiana. Meeting the needs of utilities through small emergencies, we found an increasing need to add pipefitters and millwrights to our operation, and from there our company continued to grow.
As a multi-craft union contractor, we provide civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical services for new construction and maintenance/retrofit projects. Our core markets include power generation, metals, pulp/paper, plastics, and chemical markets. We pride ourselves on being a full-service contractor attentive and responsive to the needs of our customers; providing a full range of services and solutions for construction and maintenance projects.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
• Interpreting AWS, ASME, National Board of Boilers and Pressure Vessels, along with Jurisdictional Codes and applying them to field applications
• Knowledge and understanding of blue print reading
• Performing inspections of boilers, pressure vessels, power piping and structural steel
• Giving weld tests to crafts people at union locals for certifications
• Updating welder qualification records
• Constructing repair plans
• Directing boilermakers and steamfitters in the manner of repair plans and welding
• Coordinating with union crafts and plant personnel including outside inspection companies during scheduled plant outages
• Providing trace-ability of all welding during repair work on boilers during a scheduled Power Plant Outage
• Implementing and Managing quality standards over union crafts during a scheduled outage
• Remaining on call for unscheduled forced outages 24/7
• Knowledge of NDE processes, UT, PAUT, MT, PT and VT.
• Keeping track of quotes and billing from third party inspection companies
• Maintaining good customer relationships• Building job packages and inspection reports with documentation of work performed for turnover to customers as well as the National Board of Boilers and Pressure Vessels and the Jurisdiction
Education and/or Work Experience Requirement:
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to effectively communicate with internal and external customer
• Excellent computer proficiency (MS Office -Word, Excel, and Outlook)
• Must be able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, while maintaining positive attitude and providing exemplary customer service
• Ability to work independently and to carry out assignments to completion within parameters of instructions given, prescribed routines, and standard practices
• High school diploma or GED required
• Must have a current Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) Certification
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federals, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.