Structural Welder

Job Description

Job Description

Job Opportunity: Structural 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 Structural Welder to support shipyard operations in Hampton Roads, VA. This role involves performing structural welding on naval and commercial vessels using various welding processes in compliance with shipyard and naval specifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural welding using SMAW, FCAW, GMAW, and GTAW processes as required.
• Weld ship hull structures, foundations, brackets, and other structural components.
• Interpret and work from blueprints, weld symbols, and engineering drawings.
• Ensure weld quality meets applicable codes, standards, and inspection requirements.
• Perform fit-up and tack welding of assemblies prior to final welding.
• Operate grinding, cutting, and gouging equipment.
• Maintain welding equipment and work area in safe, clean condition.
• Follow all shipyard safety procedures and welding quality standards.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of structural welding experience; marine or shipyard environment preferred.
• Proficiency in multiple welding processes (SMAW, FCAW, GMAW preferred).
• Ability to pass welder qualification tests per applicable codes.
• Strong blueprint 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

1. Describe your structural welding experience in a shipyard or marine environment.
2. Which welding processes are you certified or most experienced with?
3. How do you prepare and fit up structural components prior to welding?
4. What welding codes or standards are you familiar with (AWS, NAVSEA)?
5. How do you ensure weld quality and minimize defects?
6. Describe the most complex structural weld you have performed.
7. How do you handle distortion or warping of weldments?
8. What safety precautions are most important when welding in confined spaces?
9. How do you manage work priorities when multiple weld jobs are scheduled simultaneously?
10. How do you communicate weld fit-up or design 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.