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Posted June 07, 2026

1st Class Structural Welder - Steel America (Job ID: 1370)

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc.
Norfolk, VA, United States Full Time
Reference: Colonna's Shipyard, Inc._8a7887a89e6b0bd9019e986c46090d52

1st Class Structural Welder - Steel America

Position Summary:

As a Welder at Steel America, a division of Colonna's Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for performing high-quality welding tasks on various ship components and structures within the shipyard and heavy industrial environments. This role requires extensive experience in multiple welding techniques, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.

The position is located onsite in Norfolk VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Perform welding tasks using various techniques such as stick welding, flux core, and carbon arc welding on different metals, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
  • Prepare materials and surfaces for welding by cleaning, grinding, and pre-heating as necessary.
  • Ensure all welds meet industry standards and project specifications through visual inspections and non-destructive testing methods.
  • Repair damaged or defective welds and perform routine maintenance on welding equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
  • Identify and resolve welding-related issues on the job site, ensuring high-quality and effective solutions.
  • Collaborate with other tradespeople and departments to complete projects within specified timelines.
  • Effectively perform work on multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and responsibilities successfully.
  • Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as needed.

Qualifications:
  • Must have at least 5 years of experience welding, in a marine or industrial environment; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
  • Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in multiple welding techniques and a strong understanding of welding procedures and safety standards.
  • Must have knowledge of welding techniques, mirror welding, preheat and inter-pass temperature, tools and equipment
  • Must be proficient in metalworking, welding, and blueprint interpretation.
  • Must be able to work effectively and efficiently with others.
  • Must be able to life heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
  • Must be proficient in Stick Welding (SMAW) and Flux Core Welding (FCAW) techniques in the horizontal, vertical and overhead positions.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Previous technical training highly preferred.
  • Relevant certifications in welding, such as AWS (American Welding Society), or equivalent, are preferred.

Travel Requirements:
  • Minimal Travel; 10% or less.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
  • Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
  • May ride ships at sea for extended periods
  • Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
  • Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
  • Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
  • While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
  • Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation
  • Frequent use of respirator.
  • Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.


Respect, Pride, Truth, Family - These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.

Colonna's Shipyard, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics

Additionally, Colonna's Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).

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