Pipe Welder; 1st Class

MK Industries is currently hiring First-Class Pipe Welders for a major shipyard project in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This role offers excellent pay, daily per diem for non-local workers, and the opportunity to join a highly skilled team in a long-term, high-demand environment.

The Pipe Welder will perform high-precision welding on piping systems used in shipbuilding and marine manufacturing. This includes TIG and Stick welding procedures on stainless steel and copper-nickel pipes, working in compliance with military standards and X-ray quality expectations.

• TIG (GTAW) welding equipment
• Stick (SMAW) welding equipment
• Welding PPE (helmet, gloves, fire-retardant clothing)
• Grinders and pipe preparation tools
• Measurement and layout tools
• Scaffolding, rigging, and work platforms
• Stainless steel pipe
• Carbon steel (for testing)
• Electrodes and filler rods (e.g., 11018)
• Shielding gases (argon, etc.)

• Perform TIG and Stick welding on pipe systems in shipbuilding environments
• Weld in restricted positions, including 6G on a 5” Schedule 80 pipe
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and welding procedures
• Prepare pipe surfaces, maintain weld quality, and meet military X-ray inspection standards
• Work in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying environmental conditions
• Follow safety regulations and ensure consistent compliance with yard safety policies
• Collaborate with team leads and QA to ensure integrity of finished work
• Operate welding equipment and tools efficiently and safely
• Maintain clean work areas and proper storage of tools and materials

• Minimum 3 years of professional pipe welding experience
• Proficient in TIG (GTAW) and Stick (SMAW) welding
• Ability to weld stainless steel and copper-nickel piping systems
• Must pass a military-standard X-ray welding test in 6G position
• Strong understanding of welding symbols, codes, and specifications
• Comfortable working multiple shifts, including nights and weekends
• Able to perform physical labour in demanding environments

Competitive Pay
: $38.00 per hour

Per Diem
: $155.00 per day for non-local workers

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Weekly Pay

Consistent Long-Term Work

People-First Culture

With more than 25 years of excellence in skilled trades staffing, MK Industries partners with leading shipbuilding companies across the country. Our people-first approach ensures you get personalised support, consistent work, and competitive compensation.