Structural Welders

Structural Welders


Company
Rhoads Industries, Inc.
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Job Type
Full-time
Salary
30–40 an hour
Via
ZipRecruiter

Job Description
Founded and family‐owned since 1896, Rhoads Industries is a total solution provider of industrial fabrication, mechanical/maintenance and maritime services. In addition to our field service and project skilled labor, Rhoads has expansive shipyard facilities and over 300,000 square feet of heavy manufacturing space located in The Navy Yard in Philadelphia. Rhoads’ capabilities enable our customers to achieve superior results by deploying our diverse, highly skilled workforce and fabrication capabilities across commercial, government and maritime projects, all backed by state‐of‐the‐art resources and a 100+ year legacy of leadership.

As a member of the Rhoads team, you’ll join a quickly growing team of energetic, skilled tradespeople and professionals who are committed to delivering exceptional products and services to our customers across every market we serve. We are building on our success across more than a century by continuing to grow an innovative company dedicated to building exciting careers. Come join our journey, and experience what it means to be Done Right with Rhoads.

POSITION SUMMARY
Prep, layout, tack, weld, finish, and repair complex fabrications to work packages in accordance with product specifications, production schedule under the guidance of the shop superintendent.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Read and understand work packages, drawings, and blueprints.
• Layout, position, align and secure parts & assemblies according to specifications by using tape measures, straightedges, combination squares, levels, and other various measuring tools.
• Perform welding using the GMAW welding processes
• Work within assigned group to move and position work pieces using overhead cranes
• Operate hand and power tools such as magnetic drills, grinders, cutting torches and automated welding tractors, etc.
• Inspect own work assure it meets product specifications, shop packages and is compliant before presented to QA
• Inspect equipment to maintain functionality; report any equipment malfunctions
• Set-up and operate machinery to support the fabrication such as punching, shearing, cutting, drilling etc.
• Work with others to assist in the fabrication of multi-component fabrications
• Dispatched to other buildings within the Navy yard and possible other job sites at times when requested
• Various shifts may be required, including overtime and weekends.

EDUCATION:
• Required: High school Graduate, related Trade school and History of experience in this industry required

QUALIFICATIONS:
• 5+ year experience in fabrication industry
• Have experience in the GMAW (Pulse and Spray), and FCAW welding processes GTAW is a plus. Must qualify to Plate in the 3-G and 4-G position Per AWS D1.1 using the GMAW process. Have performed structural welding in various positions to AWS D1. 1.. Proven past welding certification history is a plus.
• US Citizenship required.
• Understands welding symbols, decipher work packages diagrams, blueprints, and or other printed instructional material.
• Can cut material by means of cutting torch, plasma torch track burner shears etc.
• Safety focused.
• Able to work in a team environment and self-motivated.
• OSHA /10 safety training required provided by Rhoads, having an up-to-date Osha/10 a plus
• Experience in MIL work Per TP1688 and past qualifications to TP248 in GMAW Pulse and Spray is a plus
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• The performance of this position involves exposure to construction or industrial areas where the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, hard hats and hearing protection is required.

Rhoads Industries, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, and disability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs

Q What is the median hourly wage for welders in the United States as of January 2026 including overtime rates?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median hourly wage for welders at $28.45 as of January 2026 with time-and-a-half overtime required after 40 hours under FLSA rules. Welders in manufacturing earn an additional $4.20 per hour on average for night shifts. Annual median earnings reach $59,176 for full-time roles.
Q How many hours per week can welders legally work in the United States without overtime pay in 2026?
The U.S. Department of Labor sets the standard workweek at 40 hours with overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate required after that threshold in 2026. Welders on federal contracts receive double time for hours over 48 in a workweek. Paid sick leave of up to 56 hours annually applies under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions.
Q What education and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states a high school diploma plus 6-12 months of postsecondary welding training or apprenticeship is required for 2026 entry-level positions. Three years of documented experience is mandatory for structural welding roles under AWS D1.1 standards referenced by DOL. Certification in SMAW or GMAW processes must be completed before hire.
Q What documents are required to apply for welder positions through U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeships in 2026?
Applicants must submit Form ETA-671, high school transcripts, and proof of U.S. work authorization to DOL-registered programs by March 2026 deadlines. A valid driver's license and negative drug test results from a SAMHSA-certified lab are mandatory. Background checks via FBI fingerprinting are required for nuclear or pipeline welding tracks.
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