Nichols Brothers ShipbuildingVerified Source

Structural Welder, Marine Vessels & ABS Certification

69K–79K
Onsite · Seattle, Washington
Posted August 12, 2026
payroll

Overview

You will weld structural components of marine vessels, including hulls, superstructures, masts, and engine rooms, using SMAW, GMAW (MIG), and FCAW processes at our shipyard on Whidbey Island. You will work on tugs, ferries, fire boats, and other sophisticated ships, with a focus on quality and safety. You will join a team of skilled welders and fabricators, collaborating with fitters and other trades to complete new construction and repair projects. This role requires 3+ years of experience and offers the opportunity to earn ABS or USCG certifications within 90 days.

What You'll Do10

  • 1Weld panels, assemblies, modules, and final vessel builds, completing hundreds of inches of weld per day with quality joints on every pass.
  • 2Perform flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead welds on fillet, butt-weld, socket, and mitered joints using SMAW, MIG, and FCAW techniques.
  • 3Grind and prep weld seams for tacking, grinding, and final inspection, ensuring surfaces meet specifications.
  • 4Set up and adjust arc welders for root passes, welding hangers, and repairs, and operate MIG welders for watertight and skip weld patterns.
  • 5Perform Air Arc operations to back gouge welds and remove defective welds, and sub-arc large hull and deck plates.
  • 6Weld on multiple alloys including aluminum, mild steel, stainless steel, and copper nickel.
  • 7Clean, lubricate, maintain, and adjust equipment using air hoses, cleaning fluids, and hand tools to ensure efficient operation.
  • 8Prepare metal surfaces using grinders, cutters, or drills, and set up ventilation and lighting in confined spaces per shipyard practices.
  • 9Work as a team member, demonstrating effective communication, adaptability, and problem-solving, while sharing knowledge with apprentices.
  • 10Follow ESR safety culture, maintain housekeeping, and work safely at heights up to 60 ft and in confined spaces with respirators.

Requirements10

  • 13+ years of experience as a Welder in a structural or marine environment.
  • 2Current 2-G, 3-G, 4-G ABS Steel certification required; aluminum or USCG certifications a plus, or ability to obtain within 90 days.
  • 3Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and specifications, and apply basic math skills.
  • 4Experience working around heavy machinery and in confined spaces, using respirators, and working at odd angles.
  • 5Knowledge of shipyard safety practices and vessel terminology, with completion of OSHA 10 certification.
  • 6Proficiency with hand and power tools, including grinders, drills, and cutting equipment.
  • 7Formal training or certification in SMAW, TIG, GMAW, FCAW welding processes, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and weld equipment care.
  • 8Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs, work at heights of 60 ft, and pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.
  • 9Valid Journeyman's License or equivalent certification.
  • 10Good verbal communication skills and ability to work overtime as necessary.

Salary Insight

$69 - $79k per year

Location

Typeonsite
LocationSeattle, Washington

Required Skills

MIG weldingTIG weldingBlueprint readingOSHA 10-Hour CertificationUSCG or ABS welding certification
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