Marine and Shipbuilders CMAW Local 506 is now accepting applications for qualified Red Seal Welders for major, long-term shipbuilding projects in North Vancouver. These are high-profile, government-backed contracts offering years of stable employment, top-tier union benefits, and a clear pathway within British Columbia’s vital shipbuilding industry. If you are a certified welder with experience in all-position flux core welding, this is a premier opportunity to build your career.
Company Overview
CMAW Local 506 represents skilled tradespeople in British Columbia’s marine and shipbuilding sector, partnering with leading shipyards on nationally significant projects. These contracts are secured for the long term, ensuring unparalleled job security and a positive, safety-focused work environment. Joining this unionized workforce means being part of a collective that values craftsmanship, safety, and fair compensation on some of the province’s most important industrial projects.
Key Responsibilities
As a Production Welder on these major projects, you will be responsible for executing high-quality welding tasks essential to ship construction and repair. Your duties will include:
- Performing all-position Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW) to strict procedural and quality standards.
- Reading and accurately interpreting complex welding procedures, blueprints, and structural drawings.
- Using manual oxy-fuel cutting and air-arc gouging techniques for preparation and fit-up.
- Working safely and effectively in various environments, including confined spaces, at heights, and in all weather conditions.
- Adhering rigorously to all site safety and environmental protocols.
- Collaborating as part of a skilled team to meet production milestones and quality targets.
Qualifications
This role has strict, non-negotiable requirements. Candidates must possess:
- A valid Red Seal Welder certification OR a minimum of 4 years of documented welding experience.
- A current CWB All Position FCAW ticket with a minimum of 6 months validity remaining.
- Proven, hands-on experience with manual oxy-fuel cutting and air-arc gouging.
- The ability to successfully pass a pre-employment FCAW weld test conducted in North Vancouver (required for dispatch).
- Good communication skills in English and the ability to read technical documents.
- A strong safety mindset and the ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
- Willingness and ability to work all required shifts, including evenings and weekends.
Benefits and Perks
This union position offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package that is among the best in the industry:
- $57.01 per hour for Red Seal Journeypersons. $48.46 per hour for experienced (4+ years) non-certified welders with a valid CWB ticket.
- All overtime hours paid at double time.
- Excellent health, welfare, and pension plans available after completing 480 hours of work.
- Work on major, government-backed projects ensuring stable employment for years.
- Be part of a skilled, unionized workforce with a strong commitment to safety and craftsmanship.
[part6_structure]: How to Apply
Important: Only apply if you meet all the required qualifications listed above. Applications from other trades or candidates without the specified experience will not be considered.
If you are a qualified welder ready to join a major shipbuilding project, please submit your application through the official CMAW Local 506 process. Ensure your application clearly states your certification (Red Seal and/or CWB ticket) and outlines your relevant welding experience.
This is a call for skilled production welders only. We look forward to receiving applications from qualified professionals.