Traveling Pipe Welder (Waco)

Innovative Refrigeration Systems; Waco (TX); On-site; USD 41,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match up to 15%

Medical insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Company-paid life insurance

Weekly pay

Paid vacation and holidays

Disability insurance

Jury duty leave

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

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

This role demands extensive travel on a 10‑day tour, 10–12 hour shifts, and welding and pipe fitting of 3/4" to 18" pipe with an emphasis on safety and quality. You will join a team delivering fully integrated engineering, fabrication, construction, commissioning, and service with competitive hourly pay and a broad benefits package.

Qualifications

• 5+ years welding and pipe fitting experience.
• Must pass 6G weld test prior to employment.
• Ability to travel extensively (typical 10‑day tours) and work 10–12 hour shifts.
• Must lift up to 75 pounds and operate industrial lifts safely.

Responsibilities

• Weld pipe from 3/4" to 18" diameter, most commonly 2"–6".
• Perform welds on compressors, vessels, evaporators and condensers.
• Cut, bevel, fit, and complete open root welds without inserts.
• Maintain safety and quality standards on site.
• Travel as required for large-scale projects.

Skills

Welding

Pipe fitting

Welding tests

Safety procedures

Manual dexterity

Physical stamina

Education

HS Diploma

Tools

Industrial lifts

Welding equipment

Job description

At Innovative, innovation isn't just part of our name —it's the mindset that drives everything we do.We are built by people who take ownership, challenge the status quo,and create solutions that keep the world's most critical industries running.From engineering and fabrication to installation and service,our teams collaborate to solve complex challenges with creativity, precision, and purpose.We invest in people who are passionate about making an impact,fostering a culture where innovation thrives, careers grow,and great teams build extraordinary solutions together.

Details:

Salary: $30-48 per hour

Posted: 2026-10-15

Employee Type: full-time

Experience Required: 5+ years'

Education Required: High School Diploma or Equivalent

Travel Required: Yes

Description:

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

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