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Weld Shop Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$88K - $111K/yr

General Foreman (Plate/Weld Shop) Purpose: Colonna's Shipyard is seeking a General Foreman for our ... Manages all shop resources by assigning trades personnel to Foremen based on project needs.

Shop Foreman

Ashland, VA · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Performs shop management functions such as maintenance scheduling and spare parts inventory control ... Operates small electric and air powered hand tools including but not limited to welders, cut-off ...

Shop Foreman

Richmond, VA · On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Performs shop management functions such as maintenance scheduling and spare parts inventory control ... Operates small electric and air powered hand tools including but not limited to welders, cut-off ...

Metal Fabricator Manager

Orange, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Supervise daily metal fabrication shop operations and team activities * Oversee welding ... management experience in a fabrication environment preferred Must-Have Skills Metal Fabrication ...

Body Shop Technician

Hampton, VA · On-site

$50K - $105K/yr

... Body Shop Management roles - Ongoing training in collision repair and structural procedures ... welding, body repair, and panel alignment - Use frame machines and measuring systems to restore ...

... Managers estimate notes; follow warranty guidelines; notify supervisor of any repair add-ons ... Qualifications * Welding, suspension, framework experience a plus OR willing to learn/train

... Managers estimate notes; follow warranty guidelines; notify supervisor of any repair add-ons ... Qualifications * Welding, suspension, framework experience a plus OR willing to learn/train

... Managers estimate notes; follow warranty guidelines; notify supervisor of any repair add-ons ... Qualifications * Welding, suspension, framework experience a plus OR willing to learn/train

The Fabrication Facility Foreman will be responsible for daily operation of Welding shop and assisting the Fabrication Facility Manager with all tasks. They must be able to interpret specifications ...

... welding. Any other mechanic repairs that can be done outside of the shop building. • Communicate with Shop Manager, Road Breakdown by using • cell phone or 2-way radio. • Fill out work orders ...

New

Service Truck Technician

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$27 - $36.25/hr

... welding. Any other mechanic repairs that can be done outside of the shop building. • Communicate with Shop Manager, Road Breakdown by using • cell phone or 2-way radio. • Fill out work orders ...

New

Fabrication Facility Foreman

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$38.48 - $47.98/hr

The Fabrication Facility Foreman will be responsible for daily operation of Welding shop and assisting the Fabrication Facility Manager with all tasks. They must be able to interpret specifications ...

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Weld Shop Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$18

$20

$22

How much do weld shop manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for weld shop manager in Virginia is $20.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a weld shop manager do?

A Weld Shop Manager oversees the daily operations of a welding shop, ensuring that all welding projects are completed safely, on time, and according to quality standards. They are responsible for managing a team of welders, scheduling work, maintaining equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Additionally, they may coordinate with clients, manage budgets, and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and productivity in the shop.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weld shop manager?

To thrive as a Weld Shop Manager, you need expertise in welding techniques, fabrication processes, and shop floor operations, often supported by a technical diploma or welding certifications like AWS CWI. Familiarity with welding equipment, CAD/CAM software, and safety management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and effective communication help manage teams and ensure project deadlines are met. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining productivity, safety, and high-quality standards in a busy welding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a weld shop manager, and how can they be addressed?

A Weld Shop Manager often encounters challenges such as balancing production schedules with quality standards, ensuring safety compliance, and managing a diverse team of welders with varying skill levels. These can be addressed by implementing clear communication channels, providing ongoing training, and regularly reviewing safety protocols. Effective delegation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement help maintain productivity while ensuring high-quality output.

What is the difference between Weld Shop Manager vs Weld Supervisor?

AspectWeld Shop ManagerWeld Supervisor
CertificationsWelding certifications often preferred; management certifications a plusWelding certifications required; supervisory training beneficial
Work EnvironmentOversees entire welding shop operations, including staff and processesSupervises welders directly, ensuring work quality and safety
ResponsibilitiesManaging staff, budgets, schedules, and quality controlMonitoring daily welding activities, training, and enforcing safety standards

The main difference between a Weld Shop Manager and a Weld Supervisor lies in scope and responsibilities. The manager oversees the entire welding operation, including administrative and strategic tasks, while the supervisor focuses on direct oversight of welders and daily production. Both roles require welding certifications, but the manager often has additional management credentials. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and job seekers identify the right position based on experience and career goals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Weld Shop jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Weld Shop jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Weld Shop Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,826 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

General Foreman - Plate/Weld Shop (Job ID: 1433)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$88K - $111K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

General Foreman (Plate/Weld Shop)
Purpose:
Colonna's Shipyard is seeking a General Foreman for our Plate/Weld Shop to support operations in our shipyard in Norfolk, VA.
Position Summary:

Position maintains detailed understanding of project specifications and all requirements necessary for appropriate trades support, ensuring safe and efficient production in ship repair/industrial fabrication operations. Provides oversight to qualified trades workforce amp; trades supervision and is responsible for meeting overall schedule, budget, quality, and safety goals of work assigned.
The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Supports labor requirements for completion of job assignments. Understand specifications, blueprints, and job orders in order to effectively communicate duties to work teams. Maintains adequate personnel/manning levels, production space, tooling, and equipment assets, while establishing work processes to meet production schedules. Suggests changes in working conditions and use of equipment to increase efficiency of shop, department, or work crews. Analyzes and resolves work problems to minimize disruptions to production schedule.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Manages all shop resources by assigning trades personnel to Foremen based on project needs.
  • Supports trades foremen in supervising, assigning, coordinating, training, and evaluating semi-skilled and skilled trades personnel according to their skill, experience, and job knowledge. Recommends training to enhance skill and productivity of employees and assists in development of training processes/procedures. Continually monitor foremen’s project designations, deck plate presence, understanding of work scope, and efficiency of trades management.
  • Manages lifecycle of shop personnel through all phases of employment, to include hiring and retention efforts of shop personnel, as well as developing/delivering coaching and disciplinary actions needed to address performance concerns. Responsible for personnel administration needs, to include recommendations/handling of change requests facilitated by EANs (pay, reclassification, etc.).
  • Engaged in workforce development by identifying candidates for additional development/mentorship opportunities, support succession planning efforts, and ensuring assigned apprentices have appropriate oversight and developmental resources.
  • Breaks broad projects down to practical action plans, ensuring adequate shop manning resources, and develops/executes POD for all shop resources (with the input of Foreman) daily to ensure production goals are executed safely and efficiently.
  • Responsible for final approval and presentation of all project deliverables via condition reports and approval/management of all material orders, ensuring contractual requirements and period of performance are met.
  • Responsible for complying with all technical aspects of the job including adherence to all drawings, procedures, etc. and manages test and inspection plans for assigned areas (overseeing submittal of required documentation, ensure foreman attend inspections as required, etc.).
  • Responsible for manufacturing, installation, operation, testing, and process operations that have a significant financial impact on the company's performance.
Additionally, position will:
  • Provide data/feedback for current budgets via hours management/EACs, including dates, and report scheduling and progress updates to superintendents/project management.
Required Qualifications:
  • Must have a Bachelors or Registered Apprentice (grad) and at least 2 years relative trades experience (or HS + 6 years trades experience) and 2 years of prior supervisory experience.
  • Must have knowledge of design principles, ASME/AWS codes, and safety standards as well as knowledge/ experience with various welding methods, weld procedures, and quality controls. Specific experience must include “hands-on” involvement in the layout, fitting, and welding of structural steel, pipe, plate, and sheet metal.
  • Must be experienced in supporting QA/QC programs and procedures.
  • Must have working knowledge of all standard ship repair/industrial fabrication tools and equipment (i.e., overhead cranes, saw, iron workers, shears, brakes, welding equipment).
  • Must have ability to understand job specifications, drawings, and corresponding technical references as well as ability to read/interpret blueprints and schematics.
  • Must have well-developed communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively communicate with employees/leadership/customers and prepare/deliver written reports and correspondence.
  • Must have regular, reliable attendance. Must be available to work all shifts (1st, 2nd, 3rd).
Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
  • Exposure to or experience supporting multiple trades is highly preferred.
  • 4 years of overall supervision experience for the trade to be supervised is highly preferred.
Security Requirements:
  • U.S Citizenship Required.
  • Ability to obtain DBIDS preferred.
Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.
Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods.
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts amp; man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk amp; sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.
Respect, Pride, Truth, Family – These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.
Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Additionally, Colonna’s Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
Pay Range: $88,307 - $111,683.00/yr
Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate’s relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees’ best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO)