1st Class Pipe Welder (Job ID: 1398)

Colonna's Shipyard; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. seeks a Pipe Welder to support maintenance and construction of marine vessels in Norfolk, VA.

You will perform welding on pipes in various positions using TIG, MIG, stick, and flux core, welding materials such as carbon steel and copper-nickel to precise specifications. The role requires 5+ years experience or an apprenticeship, relevant welding certifications, ability to read blueprints, lift heavy materials, work in confined spaces, and travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Five years of pipe welding experience or apprenticeship completed.
• Hold welding certifications (6G, ASME, AWS) for TIG, MIG, stick, flux core.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and isometrics.
• Physical ability to lift heavy materials and work in confined spaces.
• Experience with carbon steel and copper-nickel materials.

Responsibilities

• Weld pipes in vertical, horizontal, and overhead positions.
• Interpret blueprints and isometrics to plan welds.
• Prepare pipes by cutting, beveling, and fitting.
• Inspect welds and perform NDT as required.
• Collaborate with other trades and mentors.

Skills

Pipe welding

Blueprint reading

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Education

Apprenticeship program

Tools

TIG welding

MIG welding

Stick welding

Flux core welding

Copper-nickel welding

Job description

Location: Norfolk, VA

Job Id:1398

# of Openings:1

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a Pipe Welder at Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will play a crucial role in the maintenance and construction of marine vessels. You will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on pipes used in ship construction and repair. This role requires advanced welding skills and the ability to work with various pipe materials, such as steel and copper-nickel, using multiple welding processes, including TIG, MIG, stick, and flux core. The pipe welder plays a key role in ensuring that piping systems on vessels meet stringent safety and performance standards.

The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform welding on pipes in various positions (vertical, horizontal, overhead) using different welding techniques such as TIG, MIG, stick, and flux core.
• Weld pipes made from different materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, copper-nickel, and other alloys, ensuring proper fusion and integrity.
• Accurately read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and isometric drawings to plan and execute pipe welding tasks according to precise specifications.
• Prepare pipes for welding by cutting, fitting, grinding, and beveling, ensuring proper alignment and fit prior to welding.
• Inspect completed welds to ensure they meet industry standards, project specifications, and quality control requirements. Perform non-destructive testing (NDT) where required.
• Repair or replace damaged sections of pipes by cutting out and welding new segments, ensuring the integrity of the piping system.
• Collaborate with other tradespeople and departments to complete projects within specified timelines.
• Effectively perform work on multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and responsibilities successfully.
• Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as needed.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have at least 5 years of experience working as a pipe welder, preferably in a shipyard or marine environment; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
• Must have relevant welding certifications (e.g., 6G, ASME, AWS) for specific welding processes (TIG, MIG, stick, flux core).
• Advanced skills in pipe welding and cutting, with a strong understanding of shipbuilding and repair practices. Experience in welding various metals, especially carbon steel and copper-nickel.
• Ability to lift heavy materials, work in confined spaces, and perform physically demanding tasks in various environmental conditions.
• Must be able to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications.

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous technical training highly preferred.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
• Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
• May ride ships at sea for extended periods
• Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
• Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
• Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
• While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
• Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
• Frequent use of respirator.
• Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family – These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.

Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Pay Range: $28.42- $35.94

Determination of base salary considers various factors, including but not limited to scope of responsibility, candidate’s relative and specific experience, education level, key skills, as well as other business considerations. The company also provides a variety of benefits to support employees’ best health and wellness. Additionally, the company offers a 401k retirement program with match, paid holidays, and competitive paid time off (PTO).