SHIPYARD Structural Welder

Philadelphia, United States
SHIPYARD Structural Welder
Company
HKA Construction Services LLC
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Job type
Full-time
Salary
28–40 an hour
Via
Indeed
Job description
Now Hiring: Experienced Shipyard Structural Welders

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Long Term Project

Wages:

$28.00 Per Hour for Non-local employees

$150.00 Per Diem offered, if eligible

$28 - $40/hr for Local employees based on experience.

Must be able to weld test in Philadelphia, PA or Pascagoula, MS

Experience:

· Knowledge and proficiency of heavy shipyard construction welding in all positions using approved WPS (Welding Procedure Specification) determined by PSI and classification society

· Welding process includes:

o FCAW – Flux Core Arc Welding

o SMAW – Shielded Metal Arc Welding

o SAW – Submerged Arc Welding

o EGW – Electro Gas Welding

o Automated Welding Processes

o Stainless Steel Fillet Welding

o Padding and preparing weld joints per WPS

o Carbon Arc Gouging

o Ceramic Backing

o Note: Not inclusive, shall be determined by vessel specification and classification rules

· Knowledge, understanding and demonstration of interpreting approved WPS set forth at PSI.

· Knowledge and ability on how to use all tools related to welding, including basic trouble shooting and maintaining welding equipment to assure a safe and efficient operation.

· Welder must proficiently demonstrate welding ability through performance and testing as determined by vessel project and classification.

· Welder must be able to work in a team environment.

· Welder shall perform internal quality checks of own work performance to assure quality standards are achieved daily.

· Welder shall maintain their individual NDT rejection set forth by PSI and classification society.

· Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

· High School Diploma or GED

· 3+ years’ shipyard work experience welding (FCAW, SMAW, and Ceramic Backing REQUIRED)

· Welding robotics and programming a plus
• Drug screen and Background check required

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Experience:
• Shipyard Welding: 3 years (Required)
• Ceramic Backing: 3 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs in United States

Q
What is the starting salary for entry-level welder jobs in the US in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the 10th percentile annual wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers at $38,700, or $18.60 per hour, as projected for 2026. Most entry-level positions require on-the-job training and pay between $18.60 and $22.00 per hour depending on location. Overtime pay is at least 1.5 times the regular rate over 40 hours per week.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What work visa do I need as a foreign welder to work in the US in 2026?
Foreign welders can apply for H-2B temporary non-agricultural work visas, requiring a temporary labor certification from DOL valid for up to 12 months. USCIS approves H-2B petitions with a FY2026 cap of 68,500 visas after exemptions. Employers must prove no US workers available and pay prevailing wage of at least $24.50 per hour.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Q
What education and experience do I need to qualify for welder jobs in 2026?
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, plus 3 to 6 months of on-the-job training or a DOL-registered apprenticeship program lasting 1-2 years. No college degree is needed, but 1-2 years of experience boosts hiring chances. About 49,800 annual openings are projected through 2033 for qualified candidates.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Q
What documents are required to apply for welder jobs through US government programs?
Submit a resume, high school diploma, proof of apprenticeship completion via DOL Registered Apprenticeship ID, and AWS certification if held. For federal contractor jobs, include Form ETA-9062 for compliance. Applications via Apprenticeship.gov require SSN and training hours log.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration