Traveling Pipe Welder (Raleigh)

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 78,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) retirement plan with match

Medical insurance coverage

Dental and vision insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Disability insurance

Employee discounts

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is seeking a Traveling Pipe Welder to support large-scale mechanical construction projects. You will weld and fit pipe from 3/4" to 18" and assist other trades on site; extensive travel is required with 10-day tours.

The role demands precision welds on compressors, vessels, and pre-fabricated assemblies, with adherence to safety standards. The schedule yields 50–60 hours weekly in a travel-heavy role.

Qualifications

• Must pass a 6G weld test prior to employment.
• Extensive travel required (10-day tours with long shifts).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive long distances.
• Experience with high-pressure steam or process piping systems.
• Background checks and driving history will be reviewed; DUI disqualifies.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly; 75 pounds occasionally.
• Able to work at heights and in confined spaces under varying conditions.
• Manual dexterity to operate tools safely and accurately.

Responsibilities

• Weld pipe ranging from 3/4" to 18" diameter (commonly 2"–6").
• Perform welds on compressors, vessels, evaporators, condensers.
• Cut, bevel, fit pipes and execute open root welding without inserts.
• Complete up to 50 diameter inches of weld daily.
• Operate grinders, torches, and rigging tools.
• Assist with insulation, electrical, and painting tasks on site.
• Follow welding procedures and maintain a clean, safe jobsite.

Skills

Welding

Pipefitting

Safety compliance

Tools

Pipe welding tools

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