Pipe Welder

Job Description Job Description Job Opportunity: Pipe Welder LEAD Staffing | Hampton Roads, VA Location: Hampton Roads, VA Schedule: Full-Time | Contract | 40 hours per week (Overtime as required) About the Role We are seeking an experienced Pipe Welder to support shipyard operations in Hampton Roads, VA. This role involves performing precision pipe welding on shipboard piping systems using multiple welding processes in compliance with naval and industrial codes. Key Responsibilities Perform pipe welding using GTAW (TIG), SMAW, and FCAW processes on carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy piping.
Weld pipe joints, socket welds, butt welds, and fillet welds per applicable weld procedures.
Read and interpret isometric drawings, weld symbols, and weld procedure specifications (WPS).
Perform fit-up and tack welding prior to final welding.
Ensure weld quality complies with applicable codes and inspection requirements.
Operate grinding and cutting equipment for joint preparation.
Maintain welding equipment and work area in safe, clean condition.
Follow all shipyard safety procedures and pipe welding quality standards.
Requirements Minimum of 3 years of pipe welding experience; marine or shipyard environment preferred.
Proficiency in GTAW (TIG) and SMAW welding processes for pipe.
Ability to pass pipe welder qualification tests (6G position preferred).
Strong isometric drawing and weld symbol reading ability.
High school diploma or GED required.
Must be willing to undergo background check and drug screening.
Ability to work overtime, weekends, and extended schedules as required.
Clean driving record required.
Work Environment Shipyard and industrial settings
Exposure to noise, heat, cold, confined spaces, and marine/industrial hazards
PPE required at all times
Job-Specific Interview Questions Describe your pipe welding experience in a shipyard or marine environment.
Which welding processes are you certified or qualified in for pipe work?
What pipe materials have you welded (carbon steel, stainless, chrome-moly)?
How do you prepare pipe joints for welding to meet code requirements?
What welding codes or standards (ASME B31.1, NAVSEA) are you most familiar with?
Describe the most challenging pipe weld you have performed.
How do you ensure root pass quality on open root pipe welds?
What safety precautions are most important when welding in confined shipboard spaces?
How do you manage multiple weld job priorities under tight schedules?
How do you communicate weld fit-up or procedural conflicts to supervisors?
Why Work With LEAD Staffing Competitive pay based on experience
Paid Sick Leave
Holiday Pay (eligible after qualifying hours worked)
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options
Referral Bonus Program – earn a bonus for referring qualified candidates
Consistent shipyard work with overtime opportunities
Opportunity to work on complex naval and industrial projects
Strong safety-first work culture
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) LEAD is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where employment opportunities are available to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, labor union affiliation, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.