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Job Description

Overview

We are seeking a Structural Steel Fitter to prepare and assemble steel components using fabrication drawings, precise measurements, and established shop procedures. This role requires hands-on fitting experience, the ability to operate a track torch, and a strong focus on workmanship and safety.

Responsibilities

  • Read blueprints, shop drawings, and technical specifications to determine assembly dimensions and layouts.
  • Measure, mark, position, and fit structural steel parts according to project requirements.
  • Check dimensions, alignment, and fit-up accuracy throughout fabrication.
  • Operate a track torch to cut steel as required.
  • Apply knowledge of welding processes, equipment, and materials during fabrication work.
  • Follow fabrication standards and quality procedures.
  • Work with production team members and supervisors to meet schedules and deadlines.
  • Keep the work area organized and follow safety procedures when handling steel, tools, and equipment.

Requirements

  • Previous experience as a Structural Steel Fitter or in a similar steel fabrication role.
  • Ability to interpret blueprints, shop drawings, and technical specifications.
  • Working knowledge of welding methods, equipment, and materials.
  • Ability to set up and operate a track torch.
  • AWS or other welding certification preferred.
  • Strong measuring, layout, and fitting skills with attention to detail.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and shop procedures.

Additional Information

  • This is a full-time contract-to-hire position in Richmond, VA, with first- and second-shift openings.
  • Candidates should be comfortable working in a steel fabrication environment and meeting production quality and safety expectations.
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How this job compares in Richmond, VA

Pay in context

At roughly $28/hr, this posting lands within a few percent of the $29/hr median for welding jobs across Virginia, whose middle half runs $24–$34/hr across 70 postings with published pay. Put another way, it pays more than about 46% of the comparable postings we have wage data for. In other words it is a market-rate offer, so benefits, overtime, and shift schedule are where the real difference between this and the next posting on the list shows up.

The local market in Richmond, VA

We're tracking 12 other active welding openings in Richmond, VA right now, from 7 different employers. 3 of them were added in the last week. Across Virginia as a whole we're tracking 128 other active welding openings from 71 employers. A metro this active generally means you have real leverage — employers here are competing for the same welders. Browse every welding job in Richmond, or widen the search to Virginia.

Qualdoc currently has 3 other openings live in Virginia, which is usually a sign of either steady growth or steady turnover — worth asking which in the interview.

The most active employers in Virginia at the moment, by number of open welding reqs, are Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. (14), General Dynamics NASSCO (10), and Atlantic Constructors, Inc. (7). Volume like that usually means either a genuine expansion or a staffing agency working several client sites — worth knowing which before you apply.

Within Virginia, the best-paying metros we track by median hourly rate are Newport News at $38/hr, Norfolk at $30/hr, and Chesapeake at $28/hr. If you can relocate or commute, that spread is worth factoring in.

Similar openings near Richmond, VA

Pay figures are medians computed from live postings in the Welding Pros index, not from survey data, and they move as employers post. Structural Steel Fitter figures were last recalculated when this page was built.