Industrial Welder

Houston, United States
Industrial Welder
Company
Houston Industrial Tradesmen
Location
Houston, TX
Via
ZipRecruiter
Job description
Job Summary

The Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding, fabrication, and repair work on piping, vessels, structural steel, and refinery equipment in accordance with applicable codes, safety standards, and refinery procedures. This role supports safe and reliable plant operations while maintaining strict compliance with quality and safety requirements.

Key Responsibilities
• Perform welding and fabrication using TIG (GTAW) and MIG (GMAW) processes on carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy materials
• Complete welding repairs and new installations on piping systems, structural steel, supports, and refinery equipment
• Weld in multiple positions, including horizontal, vertical, and overhead
• Read and interpret blueprints, isometric drawings, welding symbols, P&IDs, and specifications
• Follow approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and Procedure Qualification Records (PQR)
• Perform fit-up, joint preparation, tack welding, and final welds
• Support visual inspections and NDE preparation; perform rework as required
• Comply with refinery safety requirements, including hot work permits, lockout/tagout, confined space, and PPE policies
• Support shutdowns, turnarounds, and emergency maintenance activities

Required Qualifications
• Current ASME Section IX welding certification (required)
• Proven TIG (GTAW) and MIG (GMAW) welding experience in a refinery, petrochemical, or industrial environment
• Experience welding carbon steel and stainless steel
• Ability to pass site-specific weld tests
• Ability to read and interpret welding documentation and specifications
• Active TWIC card (required)
• Enrollment with DISA Global Solutions (required)
• Must pass and remain compliant with DISA drug and alcohol testing requirements, including hair follicle testing
• Current Basic Plus safety training (required)
• Willingness and ability to travel to refinery locations in Houston, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi, Texas

Compensation & Benefits
• Per diem available for qualified travel assignments
• Overtime opportunities during shutdowns and turnarounds
• PPE and safety equipment provided per site requirements

Working Conditions
• Work performed in active refinery units and fabrication areas
• Exposure to heat, fumes, noise, and industrial environments
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks
• May require travel, shift work, overtime, call-outs, and turnaround assignments

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