SHIPYARD Structural Welder
Company
HKA Construction Services LLC
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Job Type
Full-time
Salary
28–40 an hour
Via
Indeed
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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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
