Traveling Pipe Welder (Iowa)

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.; Iowa (LA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match up to 15%

Medical insurance

Dental & Vision insurance

Paid vacation

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Weekly pay

Jury duty leave

Job summary

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is seeking a Traveling Pipe Welder to support large-scale mechanical construction projects across North America.

The role requires performing pipe welding and fitting, welding various components, and assisting on-site trades while traveling extensively on a 10-day tour schedule. Welders must pass a 6G weld test and are expected to travel frequently, with shifts typically 10–12 hours, driving up to 10 hours, and lifting up to 75 pounds.

Qualifications

• Proficient welding and pipe fitting; experience with high-pressure piping is preferred.
• Ability to read and follow welding procedures and specs.
• Strong safety awareness and physical stamina.

Responsibilities

• Perform pipe welding from 3/4" to 18" diameters (commonly 2"–6").
• Cut, bevel, fit, and weld pipe with root/cap procedures.
• Operate grinders, wire wheels, torches, and rigging tools.
• Support other construction trades on site as needed.
• Maintain a safe and productive jobsite environment.

Skills

Welding

Pipe fitting

Safety awareness

Manual dexterity

Tools

Industrial lifts

Job description

Traveling Pipe Welder

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is the leading provider of industrial refrigeration and process cooling solutions, delivering custom engineered systems utilizing natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO2. Through a fully integrated approach encompassing engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, nationwide service, and advanced aftermarket solutions, Innovative supports customers across the food and beverage, cold storage, pharmaceutical, industrial manufacturing, and mission-critical infrastructure markets throughout North America and around the world.

Unlike traditional engineering firms, contractors, or equipment suppliers, Innovative performs engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, service, and ongoing customer support entirely in-house. This integrated model provides employees the opportunity to support projects throughout the complete lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacturing, installation, startup, operation, optimization, modernization, and long-term system support.

Job Role:

The Traveling Pipe Welder performs welding and pipe fitting duties to support large-scale mechanical construction projects. This includes various weld prep activities, executing high-quality welds, assisting other trades on-site, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards. Extensive travel is required.

Schedule:

This position follows a 10-day tour schedule, traveling from Tuesday through the following week's Thursday, with every other Friday through Monday off, typically working 50-60 hours per week.

Pay:

$30-$48/hr

Key Duties:

• Weld pipe ranging from 3/4" to 18" diameter (most commonly 2" to 6")
• Perform welds on critical system components such as compressors, vessels, evaporators, condensers, and pre-fabricated assemblies
• Execute pipe cutting, beveling, fitting, and open root welding without inserts
• Complete up to 50 diameter inches of weld daily
• Operate grinders, wire wheels, torches, and rigging tools
• Assist with additional construction duties including insulation, electrical, and painting
• Follow precise measurement techniques and welding procedures
• Maintain a safe, clean, and productive jobsite environment
• Other duties as assigned by jobsite supervisors

Requirements:

• Must pass a 6G weld test prior to employment (2" schedule 80 steel stick with 60/10 root, 70/18 cap)
• Extensive travel required (typical 10-day tour with 10-12 hour shifts)
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive up to 10 hours
• Capable of operating industrial lifts
• Experience with high-pressure, steam, gas, or process piping systems
• Pre-employment and regular drug testing required (safety-sensitive position)
• Background check and driving record required; DUI within the last 5 years disqualifies candidates
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly, and up to 75 pounds occasionally
• Ability to stand, bend, crouch, and kneel for extended periods of time
• Must be able to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in varying conditions (heat, cold, dust, noise)
• Must have the physical stamina to perform repetitive motions and remain on feet for most of the shift
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination sufficient to operate tools accurately and safely

Benefits:

In addition to a competitive base salary, we provide a comprehensive and employee-focused benefits package designed to support your financial security, health, and work-life balance:

• Generous retirement plan with a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) match up to 15%
• 401(k) student loan repayment match up to 15%
• Medical insurance with 75% of employee and family premiums covered by the company
• Dental and vision insurance options
• Optional supplemental insurance coverage
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Company-paid life insurance
• Weekly pay
• Competitive paid vacation and holiday time
• Paid sick leave, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave
• Employee referral bonus program
• Opportunities for career advancement, professional development, training, and apprenticeship programs
• Access to employee discounts on cell phone plans, vehicle rentals, and other eligible services