Employability
5 min read
Texas Pipe Welder Resume: 3 Examples + Keywords That Get Hired in 2026
Synopsis
Texas pipe welder resumes: 3 examples, API 1104/6G cert requirements, $70K-$130K+ pay ranges, and keywords for Houston refineries and Permian Basin jobs.
Pipe Welder Resume Examples for Texas Jobs
Key Insight
Texas pipe welder resumes must surface API 1104 and 6G certifications immediately. These are the first credentials Houston-area and Permian Basin employers scan for before reviewing experience.
| Resume Comparison by Experience Level | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Resume Level | Best For | Key Certifications | Pay Range |
| Entry-Level | Recent grads, career changers | 6G, API 1104 | $45K-$65K |
| Experienced | Production welders | 6G, API 1104, TWIC, ASME IX | $70K-$105K |
| Lead/Foreman | Supervisors, QC track | All + CWI in progress | $95K-$130K+ |
The fastest way to understand what Texas employers want is to see real examples. The resumes below cover entry-level, experienced, and lead pipe welder roles, showing how to position certifications, quantify production, and align language to Texas hiring expectations.
Entry-Level Pipe Welder Resume (Recent Certification)
MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Entry-Level Pipe Welder | 6G Certified | Available for Texas Travel
Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 555-0147 | [email protected]
CERTIFICATIONS
- 6G Pipe Welding Certification (Carbon Steel, 2"-6" Schedule 40, SMAW) - December 2025
- API 1104 Pipe Welding Qualification (TIG root, stick fill/cap) - December 2025
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety - November 2025
- AWS D1.1 Structural Steel (3G/4G Plate) - October 2025
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Entry-level pipe welder with fresh 6G certification and API 1104 qualification seeking helper or junior welder position with Texas pipeline contractor or industrial facility. Trained in TIG root pass technique on carbon steel pipe 2"-6", stick welding fill and cap with E6010 and E7018. Achieved 95% X-ray pass rate during certification testing. Available for immediate travel throughout Texas oil and gas regions including Permian Basin, Eagle Ford, and Gulf Coast projects.
SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS
- Welding Processes: GTAW (TIG) root pass on pipe, SMAW (stick) fill and cap, GMAW (MIG) plate welding
- Pipe Experience: 2"-6" Schedule 40 carbon steel pipe, open root TIG, backing ring applications
- Welding Positions: 6G (45-degree fixed pipe), 5G (horizontal fixed), 2G (horizontal rolled)
- Code Standards: API 1104 pipeline welding, AWS D1.1 structural steel
- Equipment: Miller Dynasty TIG machines, Lincoln Electric stick welders, oxy-acetylene cutting torch
- Blueprint Reading: Weld symbols, pipe isometric drawings, weld procedure specifications (WPS)
- Inspection Knowledge: Visual weld inspection criteria, X-ray acceptance standards, UT testing basics
- Safety: Confined space entry, hot work permits, fall protection, PPE compliance
WELDING EDUCATION & TRAINING Pipe Welding Specialist Program
Texas Gulf Coast Trades Institute, Houston, TX
August 2025 - December 2025
- Completed 640-hour intensive pipe welding program with emphasis on API 1104 standards
- Trained on 2" through 6" carbon steel pipe in all positions (2G, 5G, 6G)
- Mastered TIG root pass technique with E6010 hot pass and E7018 fill/cap procedures
- Achieved 95% first-time X-ray pass rate on certification test coupons (19 of 20 welds passed)
- Practiced pipe fitting, alignment, and tack welding under certified welding inspector supervision
- Completed 120 hours of hands-on industrial pipe fabrication projects
Certifications Earned:
- 6G Unlimited Thickness Pipe Certification (qualifies for all positions, all diameters)
- API 1104 Open Root TIG + Stick Combination Procedure
- Passed bend tests and X-ray examination per AWS/API standards
RELEVANT WORK EXPERIENCE Welder Helper
ABC Fabrication & Steel, Houston, TX
January 2024 - July 2025
- Assisted certified pipe welders with fit-up, alignment, and tack welding on structural and pipe projects
- Prepared pipe ends using grinders and beveling tools to achieve proper weld joint geometry
- Set up welding equipment including TIG and stick machines, gas regulators, and lead connections
- Performed grinding, wire brushing, and weld cleaning to prepare for inspection
- Operated overhead crane and forklift to position pipe sections and structural steel (OSHA certified)
- Maintained clean and organized work area in compliance with 5S workplace standards
Warehouse Associate
Industrial Supply Company, Houston, TX
March 2022 - December 2023
- Operated forklifts and pallet jacks to move heavy materials (up to 4,000 lbs)
- Read and interpreted shipping documents, material specifications, and inventory lists
- Worked safely in fast-paced industrial environment with strict safety protocols
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Travel: Willing to travel throughout Texas for pipeline and industrial projects
- Physical: Able to lift 50+ lbs, work in confined spaces, and weld in all positions for extended periods
- Availability: Immediately available for day shift, night shift, or rotating schedules
- Transportation: Valid Texas driver's license, reliable personal vehicle
- References: Welding instructor and welding inspector references available upon request
Recent welding school graduates, career changers with fresh certifications, helpers stepping up to welder positions in Texas
Why This Resume Works for Entry-Level Texas Pipe Welders:
- Certifications listed first - Texas employers scan for 6G and API 1104 before reading anything else
- 95% X-ray pass rate quantified - Demonstrates quality even without field experience
- Travel availability stated clearly - Texas pipeline work requires mobility across regions
- TIG root pass emphasized - Critical skill for Texas pipeline and industrial work
- Helper experience shown - Proves familiarity with industrial work environment
- Specific equipment named - Miller, Lincoln brands common in Texas shops
Experienced Pipe Welder Resume (5 Years Production Welding)
JAMES MITCHELL
Certified Pipe Welder | API 1104 & ASME IX | 6G Qualified
Corpus Christi, TX 78401 | (361) 555-0293 | [email protected]
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Certified pipe welder with 5+ years production experience on oil and gas pipelines, refinery turnarounds, and industrial plant construction throughout Texas Gulf Coast region. Qualified to API 1104 and ASME Section IX standards with proven track record welding 150+ pipe joints monthly while maintaining 98% first-time X-ray pass rate. Specialized in TIG root pass on carbon steel and stainless pipe 2"-24" diameter in all positions. TWIC card holder with current offshore facility access clearance.
CERTIFICATIONS & QUALIFICATIONS
- 6G Pipe Certification: Carbon steel unlimited thickness (2" through 24"+ diameter)
- API 1104: TIG root + stick fill/cap on carbon steel pipe, all positions
- ASME Section IX: Stainless steel pipe (304/316L) 2"-12", TIG/stick combination
- TWIC Card: Transportation Worker Identification Credential (valid through 2027)
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction: Fall protection, confined space, hazard communication
- Fit Testing: Current respirator medical clearance and fit test
- First Aid/CPR: American Red Cross certified
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Welding Processes: GTAW (TIG) root pass, SMAW (stick) fill and cap, orbital TIG systems
- Materials: Carbon steel (A106 Grade B), stainless steel (304, 316L, 321), chrome-moly
- Pipe Sizes: 2" Schedule 40 through 24" heavy wall, shop and field fabrication
- Positions: 6G fixed, 5G horizontal fixed, 2G rolled, restricted access welding
- Testing: 100% X-ray inspection, ultrasonic testing, hydrostatic pressure testing
- Codes: API 1104 (pipeline), ASME B31.3 (process piping), ASME Section IX (boilers/pressure vessels)
- Tools: Pipe bevelers, portable welding machines, orbital weld heads, pipe alignment clamps
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Pipe Welder
Gulf Coast Pipeline Contractors, Corpus Christi, TX
March 2023 - Present
- Weld 150-180 pipe joints monthly on natural gas transmission pipelines (12"-20" diameter) across South Texas
- Perform TIG root passes with E6010 hot pass and E7018 fill/cap per API 1104 procedures
- Maintain 98% first-time X-ray pass rate on production welding (zero repair rate last 8 months)
- Complete tie-ins and hot taps on active natural gas lines under strict safety protocols
- Travel to project sites throughout Texas Gulf Coast, Permian Basin, and Eagle Ford regions
- Communicate daily with CWI (Certified Welding Inspector) and address any weld quality concerns
- Mentor helper welders on pipe fit-up, alignment techniques, and proper tack weld placement
Key Accomplishments:
- Achieved zero safety incidents over 2,500 work hours on high-pressure gas pipeline projects
- Selected for critical tie-in welds on $15M pipeline expansion due to consistent quality record
- Completed emergency pipeline repair ahead of schedule during Hurricane Harvey recovery (2023)
Pipe Welder
Refinery Services Inc., Beaumont, TX
June 2021 - February 2023
- Welded process piping on refinery turnarounds (2"-12" stainless and carbon steel)
- Performed ASME B31.3 code welding on heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and reactor piping
- Executed confined space welding on vessel internals and restricted-access pipe runs
- Read and interpreted P&IDs, isometric drawings, and weld procedure specifications (WPS)
- Coordinated with pipefitters, QC inspectors, and turnaround supervisors to meet critical deadlines
- Worked rotating 12-hour shifts during scheduled plant outages (14/7 and 21/7 rotations)
Key Accomplishments:
- Completed 45-day turnaround project with zero weld rejections on 200+ TIG root passes
- Earned "Craftsman of the Quarter" recognition for quality and productivity (Q3 2022)
- Cross-trained on orbital TIG welding systems for pharmaceutical-grade stainless piping
Welder / Pipefitter Helper
Texas Industrial Welding, Houston, TX
January 2020 - May 2021
- Assisted journeyman welders with pipe fitting, alignment, and tack welding on industrial projects
- Operated beveling machines, grinders, and cutting torches to prepare pipe ends for welding
- Learned pipe fabrication techniques including rolling offsets, branch connections, and flange alignment
- Completed internal welding certification program and earned first 6G qualification (May 2020)
EDUCATION & TRAINING Industrial Pipe Welding Certificate
San Jacinto College, Pasadena, TX - 2019
High School Diploma
Port Arthur High School, Port Arthur, TX - 2018
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Production Metrics: Consistently weld 25-30 joints per week on mainline pipeline construction
- Travel: Experienced with out-of-town projects, per diem, and temporary job site housing
- Equipment: Own Miller Bobcat 250 portable welder/generator (roadworthy rig)
- Drug Screening: Current and willing to submit to pre-employment and random testing
- Background: Clean MVR, no safety violations, able to pass industry background checks
Welders with 3-7 years field experience, production pipeline welders, those seeking higher-paying Texas refinery or LNG facility work
Why This Resume Works for Experienced Texas Pipe Welders:
- Production numbers quantified - "150-180 joints monthly" and "98% X-ray pass rate" prove capability
- TWIC card mentioned - Essential for Gulf Coast offshore and facility access
- Company names included - Shows experience with recognized Texas contractors
- Regional knowledge demonstrated - Permian Basin, Eagle Ford, Gulf Coast all mentioned
- Zero safety incidents highlighted - Critical for Texas oil/gas industry
- Turnaround experience shown - Refinery work is major Texas pipe welding market
Lead Pipe Welder Resume / Foreman (12+ Years)
ROBERT CLAYTON
Lead Pipe Welder & Welding Foreman | API 1104 & AWS CWI Track
Midland, TX 79701 | (432) 555-0891 | [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robertclayton-welder
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Lead pipe welder and field supervisor with 12+ years managing crews on major Texas pipeline projects including cross-country transmission lines, gathering systems, and industrial plant construction. Proven track record leading 8-15 person welding crews while maintaining project schedules, quality standards, and zero-incident safety records. Expert in API 1104 and ASME codes with multiple process certifications (TIG, stick, MIG, orbital). Currently pursuing AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential to transition into quality control and project management roles.
LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE
Lead Pipe Welder / Field Supervisor
Lone Star Pipeline Construction, Midland, TX
April 2019 - Present
Crew Leadership:
- Supervise 8-12 pipe welders and helpers on natural gas transmission pipeline projects (16"-36" diameter)
- Plan daily welding operations, assign welds based on crew qualifications, and monitor production rates
- Conduct pre-shift safety meetings, JSA (Job Safety Analysis) reviews, and toolbox talks
- Communicate with project managers, CWI inspectors, and client representatives on quality and schedule
Technical Responsibilities:
- Weld critical tie-ins, road bores, and difficult-access joints requiring advanced skills
- Review weld procedure specifications (WPS) and ensure crew compliance with API 1104 standards
- Troubleshoot welding quality issues including porosity, incomplete fusion, and cracking
- Perform visual weld inspection and prepare welds for X-ray or UT examination
- Maintain welding equipment including portable machines, leads, ground clamps, and consumables
Key Accomplishments:
- Led crew completing 2.5-mile natural gas pipeline expansion 3 weeks ahead of schedule (2024)
- Maintained 97% first-time X-ray pass rate across 1,200+ production welds over 18-month project
- Achieved zero OSHA recordable incidents over 15,000 crew work hours (2022-2024)
- Reduced weld repair rate from 8% to 2% through improved crew training and quality focus
- Mentored 6 helper welders who successfully obtained 6G certifications during employment
Senior Pipe Welder
Permian Basin Welding Services, Odessa, TX
March 2015 - March 2019
- Welded oil and gas gathering systems, saltwater disposal lines, and production facilities
- Performed all-position welding on 2"-12" carbon steel pipe in remote West Texas locations
- Completed high-priority welds on active well sites with strict safety and environmental protocols
- Coordinated with directional drilling crews on pipeline crossings and road bores
- Trained new hires on company welding procedures, equipment operation, and safety requirements
Key Accomplishments:
- Promoted to senior welder after 18 months based on consistent quality and reliability
- Selected for critical welds on high-pressure H2S service pipelines (sour gas applications)
- Earned company safety award 3 consecutive years (2016, 2017, 2018)
Pipe Welder
Multiple Contractors (Houston, Corpus Christi, Beaumont areas)
January 2013 - February 2015
- Gained diverse experience on refinery turnarounds, LNG facility construction, and offshore platform work
- Welded carbon steel, stainless steel, and chrome-moly pipe in shop and field environments
- Developed multi-process skills including TIG, stick, MIG, and flux-cored arc welding
- Worked extensively with CWI inspectors, learning code interpretation and quality standards
CERTIFICATIONS & QUALIFICATIONS
Current Welding Certifications:
- 6G Pipe Welder (Carbon Steel, Unlimited Thickness)
- API 1104 Multiple Procedures (TIG root + stick, stick only, orbital TIG)
- ASME Section IX (Stainless steel 304/316L, chrome-moly P5 material)
- Orbital TIG Operator (2"-4" automatic pipe welding systems)
Professional Development:
- AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) - Currently studying, exam scheduled March 2026
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification
- Confined Space Entry Supervisor
- Competent Person: Fall Protection & Scaffolding
- First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor
Safety & Compliance:
- TWIC Card (valid through 2028)
- SafeLand USA & PEC SafeGulf Training
- H2S Alive & Well Control Awareness
- DOT Pipeline Safety Regulations (Part 192, Part 195)
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Welding Expertise:
- Processes: GTAW, SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, orbital TIG, oxy-fuel cutting
- Materials: Carbon steel (all grades), stainless (300 series), chrome-moly (P5, P11, P22), nickel alloys
- Pipe Range: 2" Schedule 40 through 42" heavy wall transmission pipe
- Codes: API 1104, ASME B31.3, B31.4, B31.8, ASME Section IX, AWS D1.1
Inspection & Quality:
- Visual weld inspection per AWS and API standards
- Understanding of RT (X-ray), UT (ultrasonic), MT (magnetic particle) testing methods
- WPS/PQR review and interpretation
- Weld defect analysis and corrective action planning
Project Management:
- Crew scheduling and work planning
- Material and consumable inventory management
- Daily production reporting and documentation
- Client communication and coordination
EDUCATION
Associate of Applied Science - Welding Technology
Odessa College, Odessa, TX - 2014
Certifications & Continuing Education:
- AWS CWI Preparation Seminar (in progress)
- Leadership in Construction Safety (Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service)
- Pipeline Welding Advanced Techniques (American Welding Society)
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
- American Welding Society (AWS) - Member since 2015
- Pipeline Contractors Association - Associate Member
EQUIPMENT & CAPABILITIES
- Own complete welding rig: 2019 Ford F-350 with Miller Big Blue 500 X welder/generator
- Fully equipped with TIG torch, stick stingers, ground clamps, and safety equipment
- Current DOT inspection, commercial liability insurance, roadworthy for travel
REFERENCES Available upon request - Include project managers, welding inspectors, and safety coordinators from recent Texas pipeline projects
Lead welders, welding foremen, those seeking supervisor or QC inspector track positions at major Texas contracto
Why This Resume Works for Lead Pipe Welder / Foreman Roles:
- Leadership quantified - "8-12 person crews" and "15,000 work hours" show scale
- Safety record emphasized - Zero incidents critical for supervisor positions
- CWI pursuit mentioned - Shows career progression toward inspection/QC roles
- Project completion metrics - "3 weeks ahead of schedule" demonstrates management capability
- Training/mentoring highlighted - "6 helper welders certified" proves leadership
- Equipment ownership noted - Own welding rig = serious professional in Texas market
Key Insight
If this feels overwhelming, upload your resume and let the system flag what actually matters for Texas jobs.
ATS-Optimized resumes That Meet Employer Standards
Our AI-powered scoring system helps organizations assess and standardize resume quality at scale. ATS-compliant templates support consistent formatting, keyword alignment, and interview readiness across cohorts.
Essential Keywords for Texas Pipe Welder Resumes
Employers scan resumes for specific certification, process, and production terms. These keywords should appear naturally in your summary, certifications, and work experience to pass ATS screening and human review.
Certification Keywords (Highest Priority)
- 6G certification unlimited thickness
- API 1104 pipe welding qualification
- ASME Section IX pressure vessel
- TWIC card valid current
- OSHA 30 construction safety
Why these matter: 6G and API 1104 are baseline requirements for Texas pipeline and refinery work. TWIC is required for Gulf Coast sites. ASME Section IX applies to refineries and pressure vessels.
Process and Technique Keywords
- TIG root pass carbon steel
- SMAW stick fill and cap
- E6010 hot pass E7018 fill
- X-ray quality welds
- Orbital TIG pipe welding
Texas-specific context:
- "TIG root pass" is standard procedure for mainline pipeline work
- "E6010 and E7018" electrodes are industry standard for Texas pipeline projects
- "X-ray quality" indicates you understand inspection standards
- "Orbital TIG" is increasingly common for pharmaceutical and food-grade piping
Hint
If you’re unsure which keywords matter most, Yotru’s resume builder automatically highlights role-specific certifications, process terms, and production metrics as you build, helping ensure your resume clears ATS screening and reaches human reviewers.
Equipment and Tools
Include brand names common in Texas welding industry:
- Miller Dynasty TIG machines
- Lincoln Electric Ranger portable welders
- Miller Bobcat welder/generator combos
- Beveling machines (H&M, Tri-Tool)
- Pipe alignment clamps and fit-up tools
Measurement and Production Keywords
Quantify your work with industry standards:
- "Inches welded per day" (typical: 20-40 inches for 6" pipe)
- "Joints completed per week" (typical: 25-35 for mainline work)
- "X-ray pass rate percentage" (target: 95%+ first-time pass)
- "Zero defect" or "zero repair" records
- "Production welding" vs. "critical welds" or "tie-ins"
Safety and Compliance Terms
- Zero safety incidents
- JSA job safety analysis
- Confined space entry
- Fall protection competent person
- Hot work permits
Pro Tip
Place your highest-value keywords (6G, API 1104, TWIC) in the first three lines of your resume. Texas employers scan fast and won’t read further if certifications don’t match.
Texas Pipe Welder Certifications
Employers focus on certifications that prove production readiness and safety compliance.
Must-Have
- 6G Pipe Certification (Unlimited Thickness): The baseline for most Texas pipe welding jobs. Covers all positions and pipe sizes. Employers treat 6G as proof you can weld at production level without additional position testing.
- API 1104 (Pipeline Welding): Required for oil and gas pipeline work across Texas, including Permian Basin, Eagle Ford, and Gulf Coast projects. Certifications must match the employer’s specific WPS, or retesting is required.
High-Value Add-Ons
- TWIC Card: Required for refineries, ports, LNG facilities, and offshore access. Significantly increases job access along the Gulf Coast.
- ASME Section IX: Needed for refinery turnarounds, chemical plants, power generation, and pressure vessel work. Common materials include carbon steel, stainless, and chrome-moly.
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction: Preferred by major Texas contractors. Signals strong safety knowledge and readiness for large-scale industrial sites.
Certifications to Skip (Unless Required)
- Specialty certs without matching experience
- Exotic materials with no active demand
- Structural-only certs if targeting pipe work
- Advanced niche certs before securing employment
Important
Texas employers hire based on production readiness. Focus on certifications that prove you can weld safely, pass X-ray, and perform under real jobsite conditions.
How to Position Your Experience for Texas Markets
Texas pipe welding work divides into three distinct regional markets, each with different priorities and resume positioning strategies.
Hint
The same pipe welder can be qualified in one Texas market and ignored in another. Resume alignment matters as much as certification.
Houston Area: Refineries & Petrochemical Plants
What they screen for first: Safety, code compliance, and turnaround experience
Resume must show:
- TWIC card and ASME Section IX
- Turnaround or refinery unit experience
- Stainless or chrome-moly TIG work
Common miss: Strong welding background but no refinery keywords
Gulf Coast: Offshore & LNG Facilities
What they screen for first: Access credentials and offshore readiness
Resume must show:
- TWIC card (non-negotiable)
- Offshore or marine environment experience
- Rotation schedules and per diem readiness
Common miss: Good pipe welders blocked by missing access or offshore context
Permian Basin: Pipeline Construction
What they screen for first: Production speed and volume
Resume must show:
- 6G unlimited + API 1104
- Mainline or gathering system work
- Weld volume and X-ray pass rate
Common miss: No production metrics or unclear rig ownership
Pro Tip
Yotru automatically adjusts your resume language and keywords to match the Texas market you’re targeting.
What Texas Pipe Welding Jobs Pay
Understanding Texas pay structures helps you negotiate effectively and know whether job offers are competitive.
Pay Ranges by Experience Level
| Texas Pipe Welder Pay Ranges | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Annual Equivalent (40 hrs/wk) | Annual With Overtime |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $18-$26 | $37,000-$54,000 | $45,000-$65,000 |
| Experienced (3-7 years) | $28-$42 | $58,000-$87,000 | $70,000-$105,000 |
| Lead Welders / Foremen (8+ years) | $38-$52 | $79,000-$108,000 | $95,000-$130,000+ |
Regional Pay Differences
- Houston area (highest base pay): Refinery welders earn about $32–45/hour, typically in W-2 roles with benefits. Schedules are more stable with less overtime.
- Permian Basin (highest total pay): Pipeline welders earn $36–52/hour, often as 1099 contractors. Long weeks (60–70 hours) plus $100–150/day per diem drive higher total compensation.
- Corpus Christi / Gulf Coast: Offshore welders earn $35–48/hour on rotation schedules (14/7 or 21/7). Per diem and offshore bonuseUnderstanding Texas Pay Structures
- Arm pay (taxable): Your base hourly wage paid on a W-2 or 1099. Experienced pipe welders typically earn $36–42/hour.
- Truck pay (equipment): Extra pay if you supply your own rig. Usually $10–15/hour and often reported separately on a 1099.
- Per diem (tax-advantaged): Daily allowance for meals and lodging when working away from home. In Texas, typically $50–75/day if documented.
- Example weekly total: $40/hr arm pay + $12/hr truck pay × 60 hrs = $3,120, plus $360 per diem → $3,480/week (about $181k/year if sustained).
Important
When comparing job offers, always ask about ALL compensation components. A "$38/hour job" with no per diem or truck pay may actually pay less than a "$35/hour job" that includes $12/hour truck pay and $65/day per diem.
Benefits and Overtime
- Union vs. non-union: Union roles offer higher base pay, benefits, pensions, and paid overtime. Non-union work is more common in Texas, often 1099, with flexible schedules and higher straight-time rates.
- Pipeline overtime: Pipeline jobs typically run 50–65 hours per week, with consistent overtime during active projects.
- Refinery and maintenance work: Refinery turnarounds can reach 70–84 hours per week during outages, while maintenance roles usually stay around 40–50 hours per week.
Where to Find Texas Pipe Welding Jobs
Knowing where pipe welders actually find work helps you focus your job search on channels that produce results.
- Staffing agencies: Fast placement and varied projects, but expect 1099 work, fewer benefits, less security, and agencies taking 10–20%. Common Texas agencies include Tradesmen International, HC Tradesmen Staffing, Requs, and Select Source International. Major Texas employers are Kinder Morgan, Energy Transfer, Plains All American Pipeline, and Enterprise Products Partners.
- Word of mouth: The most effective route. Many pipe welders find jobs through referrals. Stay in touch with past coworkers, join Texas welding Facebook groups, attend AWS meetings, and ask supervisors about upcoming work when a job ends.
- Walk-ins: Still effective at smaller shops. Bring a printed resume and certifications, arrive 7:00–8:00 AM, wear clean work clothes, and be ready for same-day drug testing. Focus on Houston Ship Channel, Odessa, Midland, Corpus Christi, and pipeline yards.
- Online job boards: Best options are Indeed, RigUp, LinkedIn, and company career pages. General job boards and Craigslist are usually less reliable.
Hint
Create a one-page “walking resume” with certifications, recent projects, and contact info. Yotru can generate a print-ready power resume in one page.
Common Mistakes on Welder Resumes
Avoid these errors that immediately disqualify otherwise qualified candidates.
- No certifications listed first
- Listing expired certifications without dates
- Generic objective instead of Texas-specific summary
- No quantified production metrics
- Missing TWIC card when applying to Gulf Coast
- Spelling errors on welding terms
Pro Tip
Yotru’s resume builder guides you step by step to surface the right certifications, production metrics, and formatting so your resume clears ATS screening and reaches human recruiters.
Building Your Pipe Welder Resume With Yotru
Texas pipe welder resumes must prove production ability, current certifications, and safety performance. Strong resumes lead with 6G or API 1104 credentials, include X-ray pass rates and weld volume, and reflect the expectations of Texas refineries, pipelines, and offshore work.
If you want to see how your resume performs against real hiring systems, get started with your ATS score below.
ATS-Optimized resumes That Meet Employer Standards
Our AI-powered scoring system helps organizations assess and standardize resume quality at scale. ATS-compliant templates support consistent formatting, keyword alignment, and interview readiness across cohorts.
About the Author
Team Yotru
Employability Systems
Team Yotru
Employability Systems
We build practical career tools for training providers and workforce programs, combining labor market insights with real employment outcomes. Follow us on LinkedIn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Texas pipe welder resumes
For oil and gas pipeline work, yes. API 1104 is required by nearly all Texas pipeline contractors and is mandated by federal regulations for interstate natural gas pipelines. If you only have 6G certification under AWS or ASME standards, you'll need to re-test to API 1104 procedures before most Texas companies will hire you for pipeline projects. Refinery and chemical plant work may accept ASME Section IX instead, but having both certifications opens the most opportunities.
About This Article
Detailed guidance for pipe welders seeking employment in Texas's oil and gas industry, focusing on resume optimization for regional markets and certification requirements.
Audience Context
This guide is designed for pipe welders aiming to secure jobs in Texas's competitive oil and gas sector. It addresses the practical needs of welders at various career stages—entry-level, experienced, and leadership—highlighting regional market differences, critical certifications, and employer expectations in Houston, Corpus Christi, and the Permian Basin.
Editorial Standards
The article adheres to evidence-based editorial standards, presenting accurate and updated information on certification requirements, pay ranges, and regional market conditions. It avoids exaggerated claims and speculation, focusing instead on verifiable facts and employer practices to provide practical advice for job seekers.
Methodology
Insights are drawn from analysis of over 200 Texas pipe welding job postings, interviews with industry professionals, and review of certification codes such as API 1104 and ASME Section IX. The content integrates labor market data from authoritative sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Texas Workforce Commission, ensuring recommendations reflect current hiring realities.
Disclaimer
This article provides informational guidance only and does not guarantee job interviews or employment. Certification requirements, wage levels, and hiring practices vary by employer and can change over time. Job seekers should verify specific employer requirements and market conditions before applying.
Further Insights
Resume Building Fundamentals
- 7 Traits All Great Resumes Possess — Core principles that make resumes effective across all industries and trades
- How to Effectively Target Job Keywords in Your Resume — Strategic keyword placement for ATS systems used by major contractors
- What Methods Can You Use on Your Resume to Show Impact Beyond STAR — Achievement frameworks for demonstrating welding quality and production results
- Tips for Writing a Summary in Your Resume — Creating compelling professional summaries for skilled trades positions
- Resume Length: Should It Be One Page or Two Pages — Guidance on optimal resume length for entry-level vs. experienced welders
Technical Resume Guidance
- Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly in 5 Minutes: 2025 Guide — Quick fixes for ATS compatibility issues in welding and trades resumes
- Resume Columns: ATS Single vs Double Column — Technical layout guidance for maximum ATS readability
- What Type of Fonts Should You Use in Your Resume — Professional formatting standards for skilled trades applications
- How to Handle a Job Gap on Your Resume With Example Wording — Addressing gaps between pipeline projects or career changes
Similar Trades Resume Guides
- How to Write a Welder Resume With Skills, Examples, and Templates for 2025 — General welding resume guidance covering MIG, TIG, and structural welding
- What Goes in a Trades Resume: A Simple Guide for Skilled Workers — Foundational resume principles for all skilled trades professions
- Building a Strong Loss Prevention Officer Resume — Resume strategies for security and safety-focused positions
- How to Write a Property Manager Resume — Positioning guidance for facility and industrial property management roles
Job Search and Interview Preparation
- Interview Preparation Tips: How to Prepare and Impress Employers — Interview strategies for pipe welding and skilled trades positions
- Job Search Strategies That Are Working Now — Current effective approaches for finding skilled trades work
- Why Am I Not Getting Job Interviews Even With a Good Resume — Troubleshooting application issues for trades positions
- How to Use Glassdoor the Right Way During Your Job Search — Researching Texas pipe welding companies and verifying pay ranges
Texas and Regional Job Markets
- Hiring Trends in Texas — Broader labor market context for Texas employment conditions
- New York Hiring Trends — Comparative regional hiring patterns for pipeline and industrial work
References
- American Petroleum Institute. (2021). Welding of pipelines and related facilities (22nd ed.). API Standard 1104. https://www.api.org/products-and-services/standards
- American Welding Society. (2023). AWS QC1: Standard for AWS certification of welding inspectors. AWS. https://www.aws.org/
- ASME. (2023). ASME boiler and pressure vessel code, Section IX: Welding, brazing, and fusing qualifications. American Society of Mechanical Engineers. https://www.asme.org/codes-standards/
- Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, September). Occupational employment and wages: Welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers (51-4121). U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes514121.htm
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2024). OSHA 1926 Subpart J: Welding and cutting safety standards. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926SubpartJ
- Texas Workforce Commission. (2025). Texas labor market information: Oil and gas extraction employment data. TWC Labor Market & Career Information. https://texaslmi.com/
- Transportation Security Administration. (2024). TWIC program: Transportation Worker Identification Credential requirements. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic
- U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2025, December). Texas state energy profile: Natural gas production and refining capacity. U.S. Department of Energy. https://www.eia.gov/state/?sid=TX
- Weman, K. (2022). Welding processes handbook (3rd ed.). Woodhead Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1016/C2019-0-04691-9
- Zhu, X. K., & Leis, B. N. (2020). Theoretical and numerical predictions of burst pressure of pipelines. Journal of Pressure Vessel Technology, 129(4), 644–652. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2767352
Maintained by: Yotru Career Research and Development Team
Review cycle: Reviewed regularly to reflect market changes
Last updated: January 8, 2026
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If you are working on employability programs, hiring strategy, career education, or workforce outcomes and want practical guidance, you are in the right place.
Yotru supports individuals and organizations navigating real hiring systems. That includes resumes and ATS screening, career readiness, program design, evidence collection, and alignment with employer expectations. We work across education, training, public sector, and industry to turn guidance into outcomes that actually hold up in practice.
