Sub Arc Welder - Night Shift

Sub Arc Welder - Night Shift


Company
Universal Steel America
Location
Houston, TX
Job Type
Full-time
Salary
23.53 an hour
Posted
2 days ago
Via
via Glassdoor

Job Description
Job Title: Sub Arc Welder

Summary: The Sub Arc Welder is responsible for welding long seams and round seams on rolled steel cylinders and other heavy components using the submerged arc welding (SAW) process. This position requires precision, technical expertise, and adherence to ASME Section IX standards to produce high-quality, x-ray-quality welds that meet both company and customer specifications. The Sub Arc Welder plays a critical role in maintaining production efficiency, product integrity, and safety compliance within the fabrication department.

Essential Duties include the following.

· Set up, operate, and maintain Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) equipment and related tools according to job requirements.

· Perform FCAW, MIG, and back gouging welding processes as required.

· Weld long seams and round seams on rolled cylinders, ensuring alignment, penetration, and weld integrity.

· Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, WPS, and work orders to determine weld type, size, and process.

· Select proper welding wire, flux, and parameters to meet specifications and quality standards.

· Perform welds meeting x-ray quality requirements and verify weld soundness through inspection and testing.

· Maintain traceability of materials and weld documentation per quality system requirements.

· Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and rigging equipment safely to position and handle heavy materials.

· Conduct routine maintenance of welding equipment and work areas.

· Collaborate with fitters, welders, and supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and timely production.

· Comply with all safety, quality, and housekeeping standards.

· Perform additional duties assigned by leadership.

Competency:

· Technical Expertise: Skilled in SAW and related welding processes used in heavy steel fabrication.

· Quality Orientation: Consistently produces welds that meet x-ray and ASME standards.

· Safety Commitment: Strictly adheres to company and OSHA safety practices.

· Collaboration: Works effectively with others to meet project timelines and quality goals.

· Dependability: Demonstrates reliability, consistency, and accountability.

· Continuous Improvement: Seeks opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, and techniques.

Qualifications:

· High school diploma or equivalent required.

· 2–4 years of welding experience, preferably in heavy steel or structural fabrication.

· Proficient in Submerged Arc Welding (SAW), FCAW, MIG, and back gouging.

· Ability to perform x-ray quality welds and pass ASME Section IX weld procedure qualification tests.

· Strong math skills and ability to use measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, micrometers).

· Demonstrated problem-solving ability and understanding of fabrication processes.

· Excellent teamwork, communication, and organizational skills.

· Ability to stand for long periods and use hands and arms for handling materials and tools.

· Visual acuity includes close, peripheral, and depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

· Experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes a plus.

Work Environment:

· While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly exposed to work near moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to outdoor weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $23.53 per hour

Benefits:
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs

Q What is the median hourly wage for welders in the United States as of 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the median hourly wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is $25.22 as of May 2026 data. Welders in manufacturing earn $26.15 per hour on average while those in construction receive $24.80 per hour. Overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate applies after 40 hours per week under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Q What certifications and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, welders must complete a high school diploma or equivalent plus a postsecondary welding program lasting 6 to 18 months. AWS Certified Welder credential and 2,000 hours of documented experience are required for most positions in structural welding. Employers in shipbuilding and aerospace require additional ASME Section IX qualifications.
Q What are the standard working hours and paid leave entitlements for welders in the United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, full-time welders work 40 hours per week with overtime required after 40 hours. Workers receive at least 10 paid holidays and accrue 10 days of paid sick leave annually under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions. Union contracts in construction add 15 days of paid vacation after one year.
Q How are federal income taxes calculated on welder wages in the United States for 2026?
As per the Internal Revenue Service, welders earning $52,500 annually in 2026 pay 12% federal income tax on income between $11,601 and $47,150 plus 22% on the amount above $47,150. Social Security tax is withheld at 6.2% up to the $168,600 wage base. Employers must issue Form W-2 by January 31 each year.
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