Welder Apprentice Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

WHY JOIN BALLARD MARINE CONSTRUCTION?
Ballard Marine Construction is a specialty marine and underwater contractor based in Washougal, WA, with regional offices and projects throughout North America.
Why join Ballard? It's simple. You get to work on amazing technical projects with likeminded team members. The Ballard culture is second to none, and because of that we are incredibly protective and particular on who we invite onto the team. We have a unique culture of true excellence; we hold each other accountable from our newest interns and engineers to our most senior leaders. You will always go to work knowing that everyone you are working with cares as much as you do and is working hard to reach common goals. You will get out of it what you put into it. Ballard is an amazing place to work and if what we've said resonates with you, you just might be right for us!
Job Summary:
The Welder is responsible for performing structural and fabrication welding activities in support of marine, heavy civil, industrial, and infrastructure construction projects. This position performs welding, cutting, fitting, fabrication, and repair of steel components, piling systems, structural members, equipment, and construction materials in both shop and field environments. The Welder works closely with Superintendents, Foremen, Equipment Operators, Pile Drivers, Laborers, and other craft personnel to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project specifications, welding procedures, and quality standards.
Ideal Candidate:
Core Attributes:
• Grit and Resiliency - We dig deep to figure out how to make things happen no matter how impossible it seems. We never give up. We take on challenges that nobody else can; or will.
• Comradery and Inspirational - We are a hard-working team of likeminded individuals working toward a common goal. We regularly celebrate wins and like to have fun whether at work or at play. We come together each day looking for ways to instill life and energy into the world around us.
• Driven and Competitive - We love competition. We love to win and love to learn when we lose. Not getting the job done is not an option. We are obsessed to do our best and we do what it takes to win.
• Trustworthy and Respectful - We are passionate about honesty, authenticity and transparency. No lies. No drama. No politics. We value constructive conflict and ensure that even in conflict we treat others with respect.
• Ownership and Accountability - When something goes wrong, we first "look in the mirror" before we "look out the window". We ask "what could I have done differently?" and then we share lessons learned. Regularly challenging ourselves and those around us to be better is a way of life. "Me first" belongs here.
Education:
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.
• Completion of a welding training program or apprenticeship preferred.
Experience:
• Minimum three (3) years of structural, industrial, marine, bridge, or heavy civil welding experience preferred.
• Experience performing field welding in construction environments.
• Experience working around cranes, rigging operations, heavy equipment, and construction activities preferred.
Skills:
• Ability to read and interpret welding symbols and blueprints
• Knowledge of welding processes, techniques, and materials
• Knowledge of steel fabrication and structural welding practices
• Understanding of weld inspection methods and quality requirements
• Ability to safely operate welding machines, cutting torches, grinders, and hand tools
• Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions related to welding operations
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, and travel as project demands require
Responsibilities:

• Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, welding symbols, and project specifications
• Measure, mark, cut, and fit steel components according to project requirements
• Perform SMAW (stick), FCAW (flux-core), MIG, and other welding processes as required
• Weld structural steel, pipe, sheet piling, H-piling, casings, brackets, connections, and miscellaneous fabricated components
• Fabricate, modify, and repair steel assemblies and construction equipment components
• Fit up components and verify proper alignment, dimensions, and tolerances prior to welding
• Perform field welding and fabrication activities in varying environmental conditions
• Grind, clean, and finish welds to meet project quality standards
• Inspect completed welds for quality, defects, and conformance to specifications
• Repair defective welds as necessary
• Assist with installation and repair of marine, bridge, foundation, and heavy civil construction components
• Coordinate with field crews to ensure welding activities support project schedules and operational needs
• Assist with rigging, material handling, and positioning of fabricated components when required
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and site-specific safety requirements
• Conduct pre-task planning and hazard assessments before beginning work
• Properly use and maintain required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ensure welding procedures and processes comply with project specifications and applicable codes
• Assist other crafts and field personnel as needed

Physical Demands/Working Environment:
• Ability to stand, walk, kneel, squat, bend, climb, and work in physically demanding environments for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly
• Ability to work at elevated heights, over water, on barges, vessels, scaffolding, and temporary structures
• Ability to work in confined spaces when required
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind
• Must be able to wear required PPE, including welding hood, respirator (when required), fall protection, and flotation devices
• Ability to travel and work away from home for extended periods as project needs dictate
Benefits:
Ballard offers a strong benefit package and provides a culture that values opportunity for growth, development, and internal promotion. When you become eligible, benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401K with employer match, and more!
Hourly Range
• $28-$44/hr
• Pay is commensurate with experience and qualifications
EEO Statement:
Ballard Marine Construction, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, or veteran status. A reasonable accommodation will be considered for qualified individuals with a disability if it does not create an undue hardship for the Company, consistent with the ADA as amended.