Becoming a welder typically starts with technical training, which combines hands-on experience with classroom learning, allowing individuals to gain practical skills quickly. Training programs last about 6 to 18 months, preparing graduates for immediate employment. The American Welding Society reports approximately 771,000 welders nationwide, with a median annual salary of $45,190, and projects steady job growth. Apprentices earn an average of $1,000 per week in Ruston, LA, with an annual overtime average of $5,200. Trade schools, community colleges, and platforms like AWS help aspiring welders find training opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential—often exceeding $98,000 annually for experienced professionals.
Structural Welder/Fitter Location: Ruston, LA Schedule: Full-Time Pay: Starting at $23.00 per hour Expected Hours: Minimum of 40 hours per week Job Type: Full-time, Contract to Hire Shift: 10 hour shift with rotating 4 day weekends We are currently hiring a Structural Welder/Fitter in Ruston, LA. This is a hands-on role ideal for someone with strong fitting experience who is confident reading blueprints, cutting metal, and welding using various processes. Responsibilities: • Fit and fabricate metal components using blueprints and measuring tools • Tack and weld using GMAW, SMAW, and FCAW welding processes • Perform first-order inspections to ensure quality and accuracy • Use overhead and jib cranes to move assembled parts • Follow safety procedures and contribute to a team-focused environment Requirements: • 3+ years of experience in welding and fitting • High school diploma or GED • Basic knowledge of metal fabrication, materials, and welding processes • Familiarity with oxy-fuel and plasma cutting • Ability to read blueprints and use standard fabrication tools • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety Work Environment: • Indoor manufacturing/shop environment • Exposure to moving mechanical parts, fumes, and moderate to high noise levels • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds We are looking for dependable individuals who take pride in their work and are eager to grow with our team.
See More Details >>About the position The Structural Welder/Fabricator position at Advantage Resourcing involves precision welding and fabrication of structural components, with a focus on assembling hydraulic systems. This direct-hire opportunity is ideal for skilled welders looking to advance their careers in a dynamic work environment in Ruston, Louisiana. Responsibilities • Precisely align parts utilizing tools such as jacks, turnbuckles, wedges, drift pins, pry bars, and hammers to meet specifications for proper assembly as per blueprints. , • Execute welding tasks on various materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and copper-nickel pipe, ensuring high-quality welds per engineering drawings. , • Fabricate parts and equipment, particularly focusing on thin metals like aluminum, using appropriate processes. , • Fit and align components according to engineering drawings, emphasizing large-scale pipes, and utilizing hardwire and flux core welding. , • Proficiently weld a variety of materials including titanium, steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. , • Assemble electromechanical and hydraulic systems with meticulous precision. , • Construct patterns/templates to fulfill project requisites and design templates/patterns to optimize workflow efficiency. Requirements • Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in fitting and structural welding, including assembling hydraulic systems, structures, and conveyors. , • Proficiency in welding techniques and practices, capable of passing a written fitting test. , • Ability to interpret blueprints and familiarity with common welding tools and procedures. , • Aptitude to thrive in a fast-paced work environment with meticulous attention to detail and precision. , • Capable of frequent heavier lifting (50+ pounds) and standing, kneeling, and crouching. , • Flexible availability to work 1st shift/2nd shift/days/nights/weekends. , • Willingness to work overtime as needed. Nice-to-haves Benefits • Health insurance , • Dental insurance , • Vision insurance , • Life insurance , • Health savings account , • Flexible spending account , • 401k with company match , • Paid time off
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