
TIG Welder
FlexTrades is hiring experienced TIG Welders for nationwide contract work supporting fabrication and piping operations. This is a hands-on, high-skill welding role ideal for individuals who excel in layout, fit-up, and manual weld techniques. If you’re confident welding stainless steel in multiple positions with minimal supervision, apply today for top pay, guaranteed overtime, and full benefits.
Job Location
Nationwide travel-based role with potential job sites in Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Job Summary
As a TIG Welder with FlexTrades, you’ll work on stainless steel pipe-to-flange weldments using foot pedal TIG welding techniques. You’ll perform layout, tack, fit, cut, chamfer, and weld tasks — all by hand with no jigs or fixtures. Welds must meet high aesthetic and structural standards, and you’ll be responsible for ensuring full penetration with tight tolerances.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform full layout, tack, fit, and foot pedal TIG welding on stainless steel pipe (304 & 316 grade)
- Use 1/16” or 3/32” tungsten electrodes with 3/8” to ½” cups
- Apply either “walk the cup” or pulse transfer methods (welder’s preference)
- Work in flat, horizontal, and overhead weld positions (overhead experience preferred)
- Weld pipe (1?–8? diameter, occasional 12?) to flanges
- Cut pipe to length using saws and chamfer edges before fit-up
- Weld freehand — no fixtures or jigs used
- Interpret weld prints and reference example pieces (some with AWS weld symbols)
- Ensure tight/near-zero gaps and avoid internal sugaring
- Meet single-pass weld requirements for most seams
- Use die grinders, angle grinders, and impacts for prep and cleanup
- Operate 1-ton overhead crane to position materials and weldments
Weld Test Requirement
- Welders must pass a test welding 3? schedule 10 stainless steel (304) pipe to matching pipe
- Pipe must be chamfered and fitted to tight tolerances before welding
- Weld will be visually inspected and may be brake tested
- Practice and retesting are allowed before evaluation
Candidate Requirements
- Proven experience TIG welding stainless steel pipe with foot pedal control
- Strong fabrication skills including layout, cut, chamfer, and fit-up
- Must work to tight tolerances with high-quality, clean welds
- Comfortable welding in multiple positions and working with minimal supervision
- Experience with die grinders, angle grinders, and overhead cranes
- Must pass weld test with proven technique and fit-up precision
- Must pass a drug test
- Available to travel and commit to assignments ranging from 3 to 12 months
- Willing to work 2nd or 3rd shifts with 50+ hours per week
Compensation & Benefits
- $32/hour + guaranteed overtime (paid at time and a half)
- Full suite of benefits
- Paid travel to and from job sites
- Paid lodging (single-occupancy hotel room)
- Daily per diem of $45
- Flexibility to take time off between assignments
About FlexTrades
FlexTrades deploys skilled tradespeople across the country to help leading manufacturers and fabricators meet production goals. We offer competitive pay, steady work, and the chance to travel while applying your craft in high-performance environments.
FlexTrades is an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, including individuals with disabilities and veterans.
