Need job advice fast

Date 01-28-2009 02:02

Hi All!

I need some help here. I know you all are experienced so I thought
this was the best place to ask advice.

I have finished school. I have 5 years welding experience and hold
certs for SMAW,FCAW, and two pipe certs in 6G asme for stick and Tig.

Sitting in a motel about 60 miles from Houston Texas..LOL I went online
and found some temp jobs for pipe. Is this the way to go? or should I
contact a pipefitter union?

What do you think I should be looking at for salary range?

I have been overseas welding so, I don't know the rules here
in America.

Thanks for any help or advice you can give me.
Erik

By Lawrence (*****)

Date 01-28-2009 13:12

Welcome to America!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think you will like it here

For long term,, a union apprentiship will increase the chances of you being a more well rounded craftsman.

If you need a job "NOW"... Than there is nothing wrong with working for a temp agency... But let it be known that you will probably be recieving a wage at least slightly below the norm... Some folks breaking in don't mind this because they just want the experience or really need the money... Also there are occations that the Temp agency will put you with a company that is very willing to hire Temp welders permenantly and pay them full wage if they perform strongly.

There is also nothing wrong with taking whatever job is offered right now, (including making french fries) and to keep looking for a better job during your time off :) In my younger days I choose many times to work in a sweat shop for a low wage and no benefits rather than collect unemployment when times were hard

I'll let others comment on salary range