Lead Welder

We are seeking an experienced Lead Welder to direct welding and fabrication work across our fleet and shop. The Lead Welder is responsible for executing high-quality marine welds, fabricating and repairing steel and aluminum structures, and leading a small team of welders and fabricators. This is a hands-on leadership role: you will be on the tools, setting the standard for workmanship, safety, and productivity, while planning jobs and mentoring less experienced crew members.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform structural and repair welding on vessels, barges, tugs, and shoreside equipment using SMAW, FCAW, GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG) processes.
• Fabricate, modify, and install steel and aluminum components, including hull plating, frames, brackets, piping supports, deck fittings, and railings.
• Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and fabrication drawings; lay out and prep material to spec.
• Lead day-to-day welding operations: assign tasks, set priorities, and ensure jobs are completed on schedule and to specification.
• Inspect welds and finished work for compliance with ABS, USCG, and company quality standards; identify and correct defects.
• Mentor and train junior welders and fabricators; promote a culture of safety, accountability, and craftsmanship.
• Maintain welding equipment, consumables, and the work area in safe, organized, ready-to-work condition.
• Work in marine environments: shipyards, drydocks, on vessels afloat, and in confined spaces, often in variable weather.
• Follow all Westar Marine Services safety procedures, USCG requirements, OSHA standards, and applicable hot-work permitting practices.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional welding and fabrication experience, with significant time in a marine, shipyard, or offshore environment.
• ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) welder certification.
• Proficiency in multiple welding processes: SMAW (stick), FCAW (flux core), GMAW (MIG), and GTAW (TIG).
• Demonstrated ability to weld and fabricate in both steel and aluminum.
• Strong blueprint reading and layout skills.
• Prior experience leading or supervising a small welding/fabrication crew.
• Comfortable working at heights, in confined spaces, and on the water.
• Physically able to lift 50+ lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in all weather conditions.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation to Bay Area job sites.
• Eligible to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society) D1.1 (steel) and/or D1.2 (aluminum).
• Experience working to USCG and ABS repair standards on commercial vessels.
• TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential).
• OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• Experience with pipe welding and shipboard piping system repairs.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay of $, based on experience and certifications.
• Full-time, year-round work with a stable, established Bay Area marine operator.
• Health, dental, and vision benefits.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunity to lead and grow a skilled fabrication team.
• Varied, hands-on work across a diverse fleet — no two days are the same.