Lead Welder

Veoliaenvironnementsa; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Veolia is seeking a Lead Welder to execute advanced welding tasks including MIG, TIG, Arc, and Acetylene techniques. This role leads the shop’s weld team and oversees fabrication, assembly, and maintenance of metal components for water treatment systems.

The ideal candidate has journey-level welding experience, completes formal apprenticeship or vocational training, and demonstrates strong safety discipline and independent problem-solving abilities.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent and completion of an apprenticeship or vocational training.
• Experience as a journey-level welder using MIG/TIG/Arc welding techniques is preferred.
• Knowledge of pipe fitting and water treatment systems is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead weld team, plan, assign, inspect, and direct shop work.
• Forecast labor hours and manage material orders for projects.
• Interpret material specs and select appropriate materials for projects.
• Mentor and onboard new welders and ensure safety protocols are followed.

Skills

MIG welding

TIG welding

Arc welding

Safety compliance

Team leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Formal apprenticeship / vocational training

Tools

Fabrication tools

Job description

Job Summary:

Under general oversight, the Lead Welder executes advanced welding tasks including MIG, TIG, Arc, and Acetylene techniques. This position is responsible for the construction, maintenance, assembly, and alteration of diverse metal components, including fixtures, machinery, piping, and structural frameworks. This role is designated as a working lead within the team.

Key Characteristics:

We are seeking a precise and experienced Lead Welder to facilitate the manufacturing and assembly of specialized water treatment systems and equipment. The successful candidate will be responsible for fabricating components while supervising a welding team to maintain production schedules and meet shop demand.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Schematic and Materials Knowledge:

• Establishes priorities for the shop; plans, assigns, inspects, and directs the work of shop weld team.
• Performs detailed calculations for time and material expenditures by forecasting labor hours and initiating material orders.
• Familiarity with various construction materials, their properties and applications.
• Ability to interpret material specifications and select appropriate materials for specific projects.

Training New Hires:

• Mentor and onboard new team members.
• Provide hands‑on training related to construction techniques, safety protocols, and company procedures.
• Foster a positive learning environment.

Ability to Work with Minor Oversight:

• Execute tasks independently while adhering to project guidelines.
• Demonstrate self‑reliance and problem‑solving skills.
• Seek guidance when necessary but maintain productivity without constant supervision.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Preferred:

• Previous experience as a Welder

The job description is not designed to capture all the employee's responsibilities but is intended to capture essential functions of the role. Responsibilities may change over time and may be assigned at any time.

Education & Experience

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of formal apprenticeship, extensive training program in a vocational school, or on‑the‑job training program; experience as a journey level welder using a variety of welding techniques.
• Experience in fabrication and manufacturing, preferably in the water treatment or related industry.
• Proficiency in operating a variety of fabrication tools and equipment.
• Knowledge of pipe fitting techniques and materials used in water treatment systems.
• Strong commitment to safety and following established procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred:

Working Conditions

At Veolia, we realize diverse teams make smarter decisions, deliver better results, and build stronger communities. We're an organization that champions diversity and inclusion at every rung of the ladder and are proud to be an equal oppo

Compensation:

The compensation range is tied to the market for similarly benchmarked roles. The range is not an absolute but a guide, and offers will be based on the individual candidate's knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, as well as internal peer equity. Depending upon all the preceding considerations for the final selected individual candidate, the offer may be lower or higher than the stated range: $26-32

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Disclosure:

We do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for this position.

Vacancy Status:

This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Veolia does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiting firms. All vendors must have a current and fully executed MSA on file before submitting candidates. Any unsolicited resumes and candidate profiles will be deemed the property of the company and no fee will be due.

As an inclusive company, Veolia is committed to diversity and gives equal consideration to all applications, without discrimination.

Why Veolia?

Join a company that values Responsibility, Solidarity, Innovation, Customer Focus, and Respect.

You’ll receive comprehensive technical and commercial training, direct mentorship from experienced Account Managers, and a clear pathway to Account Manager promotion with direct account responsibilities.

Career Development Path: This position is designed as a stepping stone to Account Manager, where you’ll assume direct customer responsibility and independent account management upon demonstrating commercial excellence.

Ready to transition your technical expertise into a rewarding customer‑facing career while making a difference in water treatment and sustainability?

We realize diverse teams make smarter decisions, deliver better results, and build stronger communities. We're an organization that champions diversity and inclusion at every rung of the ladder and are proud to be an equal oppo