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Welding Jobs in Ridgefield, WA (NOW HIRING)

Welder Fitter - Swing Shift

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $28/hr

Perform manual and semi-automatic welding processes in welding positions. As a welder, the position will require preparing weldments for assembly into structural fabricated products. We excel in a ...

Welder/Fabricator

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$25.02 - $46.90/hr

Welding and Fabrication: Complete welding and fabrication work for a variety of shop and field projects while maintaining a high level of quality. * Project Plans and Specifications: Understand the ...

Mig/Tig Welder

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $25.50/hr

The successful candidate will be proficient in MIG and TIG welding, with extensive experience welding stainless steel and fabricating complex assemblies. This role requires strong blueprint-reading ...

Welder/Fitter

Portland, OR

$22.25 - $28/hr

Welding & Fitting components for final assembly. Principle Duties and Responsibilities: Perform daily Inspections and maintenance of Personal Protective Equipment and Welding Machines including ...

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Welding information

See Ridgefield, WA salary details

$15

$31

$48

How much do welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for welding in Ridgefield, WA is $31.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $36.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a welding job?

Welding jobs are any jobs that include metal welding as a significant part of the work. There are many different fields that require welders, including manufacturing and construction. As a welder, you are trained to use a number of hand-held and automated tools to complete jobs. You use these tools to cut or fuse together metal parts. Other related positions include cutting, soldering, and brazing jobs. Other fields that have a significant welding component include ironwork and sheet metal work.

What do welders do?

Welders are skilled tradespeople who join metal parts together using high heat and specialized equipment. They work on construction sites, in manufacturing plants, shipyards, and many other settings to build or repair metal structures and products. Welders must be knowledgeable about different welding techniques, safety protocols, and the properties of various metals. Their work is essential in industries like automotive, aerospace, and infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Welder, you need strong technical skills in metal fabrication, blueprint reading, and welding techniques, typically backed by a welding certification or completion of a technical program. Familiarity with tools like MIG, TIG, and arc welders, as well as safety equipment and quality inspection systems, is essential. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and effective problem-solving are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure precise, safe, and durable work that meets industry standards and project requirements.

What are some common safety challenges welders face on the job, and how are these typically addressed in the workplace?

Welders regularly encounter safety challenges such as exposure to intense heat, ultraviolet light, fumes, and the risk of burns or electrical shock. Most workplaces address these risks by enforcing strict safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like helmets, gloves, and flame-resistant clothing. Additionally, employers often provide regular safety training and ensure proper ventilation systems are in place to minimize exposure to hazardous fumes. Team discussions and safety briefings are also common to keep everyone aware of best practices and recent safety updates.

What is the difference between Welding vs Pipefitting?

AspectWeldingPipefitting
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)Pipefitting certifications (e.g., NCCER)
Work EnvironmentFabrication shops, construction sites, manufacturingConstruction sites, industrial plants, maintenance
Job FocusJoining metal parts through weldingAssembling and installing piping systems
Tools & EquipmentWelding machines, torches, safety gearPipes, fittings, wrenches, threading tools

Welding and pipefitting share overlapping skills and certifications, often working together in construction and manufacturing. While welders focus on joining metal components through welding techniques, pipefitters specialize in installing and maintaining piping systems. Both roles require safety training and certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ slightly, making each role unique within the industry.

What are some jobs for welding?

Welding jobs include positions such as welder, pipefitter, fabricator, and structural welder, often requiring skills in reading blueprints and operating welding equipment. These roles are found in industries like construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, and oil and gas, with certifications such as AWS or ASME often preferred. Welders typically work in factories, construction sites, or shipyards and may need to work in various environments and shifts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Welding jobs in Ridgefield, WA?

The most popular types of Welding jobs in Ridgefield, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Welding jobs in Ridgefield, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Welding jobs in Ridgefield, WA are:

What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Welding jobs?

Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Welding job openings in Ridgefield, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,746 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

Experienced Welder (Swing Shift)

Thompson Metal Fab, Inc.

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$35.98 - $40.94/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Application Instructions
Please review the position below and fill out the application.
Position Description
The Pacific Northwest's premier steel fabricator, Thompson Metal Fab, Inc., is in immediate need of skilled and experienced Fitters / Fabricators / Welders. Serving the Civil, Hydro, Oil & Gas, and custom fabrication industries. We are an AISC, API, ASME, and WABO certified facility. With over 85 years in the industry, we have a reputation for producing some of the highest quality fabricated products on the West Coast.
Thompson Metal Fab is a union shop that offers outstanding benefits for employees and their dependents. Our Local 16 contract includes, but is not limited to: Paid Holidays, PTO, Union Pension Plan, Dental, Vision, and excellent Health Care. Thompson Metal Fab is a Veteran-owned, privately held company that is signatory to SMART Local #16 Sheet Metal Workers. Each employee is valued for their hard work and dedication to the trade and treated with the utmost respect and dignity.
This position is primarily fitting, but welding experience is necessary. Previous experience as a fitter will be prioritized. This position is available for swing shift: 3:00PM-1:30AM Mon-Thur, with optional overtime opportunities.
Competitive wages start ranging between $35.98 and $40.94 an hour. This includes a swing shift differential of $1.75 an hour.
**All employees must pass a pre-employment drug screen and pre-employment physical.**
Responsibilities:
  • Lay out, fit, and weld various structural components, including structural plates, beams, etc. in accordance with approved fabrication drawings.
  • Effectively communicate with management to execute tasks common in the steel fabrication industry in the most efficient and accurate manner.
  • Collaborate with project lead(s) and/or leadman to ensure the proper weld procedure, type of material, and weld joint are accurately identified for each welding project.
  • Read and understand shop drawings, welding procedures, and any other instructions for specific projects.
  • Make a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease process times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively as part of a team.
  • Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment.
  • Welding and / or fitting various pieces to create small to large scale structures and assemblies.
  • Check work after completion of each operation / task in job, and / or a completed job, to ensure it is complete and accurate per drawing.
  • Setup of safety equipment and work platforms at elevation as needed.
  • Prioritize safety and perform work in a safe and efficient manner.

Position Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • 5+ years of experience with FCAW or GMAW welding.
  • 5+ years of experience in welding carbon steel.
  • Experience with AWS D1.1, D1.5, D1.8, D1.6 codes.
  • Experience with Carbon-Arc gouging.
  • Ability to read and interpret Weld symbols.
  • Ability to read and understand shop drawings.
  • Familiarity with all welding positions - Flat, Vertical, and Overhead. Familiarity with 6G welding strongly preferred.
  • Knowledge of FCAW, GMAW-MC, SAW, SMAW welding processes.
  • Familiarity with heavy plates and bridge building.
  • Competency welding CJP welds that are ultrasonically and radiographically tested.
  • Knowledge of standard tools, materials, motions, and practices of the welding trade.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and effective safety precautions of the welding trade.
  • Experience with overhead cranes, forklifts, and arial work platforms preferred.
  • Working knowledge of and competency in the use of precision measuring instruments.
  • Ability to rapidly change roles / responsibilities while working in a high-paced, challenging work environment.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age.
Disability Accommodations. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact us at 360-696-0811 or careers@tmfab.com.
Drug Policy. As a federal Contractor, and by Collective Bargaining Agreement, Thompson Metal Fab prohibits use, being under the influence of, or possession of marijuana and other controlled substances.
Safety. Thompson Metal Fab is committed to ensuring a safe workplace for every employee. All successful applicants will be required to follow our Ear, Eye, Safety Toe Shoes, and Hardhat protection requirements in shop areas.
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