Welder 2nd Class

American Electric Power; South Charleston (WV); On-site; USD 52,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power is hiring for an entry-level Welder 2nd class to inspect, repair, rebuild and assemble components for power plant equipment at the Central Machine Shop and temporary sites. The role requires 3 years welding experience and an R stamp certification within one year.

You will perform MMA, TIG, MIG, and oxyacetylene welding, assist in repairs and assembly, and uphold safety standards as part of a dedicated team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Minimum 3 years of welding experience in the field.
• Must obtain "R" stamp certification within one year of hire.
• Online pre-employment assessment with a "recommended" result required.

Responsibilities

• Perform manual MMA, TIG, MIG, and oxyacetylene welding in all positions.
• Support ID fan repairs; assist QC, cleaning, disassembly, and assembly.
• Assist in stress-relieving and hard surfacing (e.g., stellite).
• Assist in silver brazing work, turbine bucket erosion shields installation.
• Maintain Central Machine Shop building and equipment.
• Report irregularities and keep records as directed.
• Follow safety regulations and shop practices; support team members.

Skills

Welding

Arc welding

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Job Posting End Date

11-02-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date

Job Summary

Perform semi-skilled work in the inspecting, repairing, rebuilding, and assembly of equipment (critical / large power plant components such as turbine, fan, valve and pump) sent to Central Machine Shop and perform the same at other places of temporary assignment. This is an entry level job.

Job Description

What You’ll Do:

• Perform manual metal arc, tungsten inert gas (Tig welding), gas metal arc, and oxyacetylene welding in all positions, including the safe operation of the submerged arc welding equipment.
• Perform work to support ID fan repairs as required … QC, cleaning, disassembly and assembly.
• Assist in stress relieving processes as required. Apply hard surfacing material such as stellite.
• Assist in silver brazing work such as installing turbine bucket erosion shields.
• Perform maintenance work on the Central Machine Shop building and equipment.
• Assist, as directed, employees of equal or higher classification in carrying through work assignments.
• Report irregularities or abnormal conditions. Take notes and keep records as directed.
• Perform all work in accordance with safety regulations and acceptable shop practices.
• Support AEP's cultural goals and expectations.
• Perform similar or less skilled work, as assigned.

What You’ll Need:

Education requirements are listed below: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

Work Experience requirement listed below: Must have at least 3 years experience where the incumbent worked successfully in the welding field and has a basic understanding of welding concepts.

As part of the selection process, candidates are required to complete an online pre-employment assessment and achieve a "recommended" result. Additional information and preparation resources can be found in the Employment Test Prep section of our website: Employment Test Preparation Resources.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Welder 2nd class must demonstrate the skills and abilities contained within the job description or satisfactory progression toward these skills and abilities prior to the end of the probationary period; and must obtain "R" stamp certification within one year from the initial hiring date.

A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.

In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you.

#APCO

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

N005-410

Compensation Range:

$37.66 - $39.59

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M - Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.