ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defense Contractor Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

McNally Industries

CNC Machinist

Grantsburg, WI

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

1 st , 2 nd , and Weekend Shifts Available McNally Industries, a defense contractor located in Grantsburg WI, is looking for experienced CNC machinists for all shifts. Enjoy working in a clean ...

McNally Industries

CNC Machinist

Grantsburg, WI · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

1 st , 2 nd , and Weekend Shifts Available McNally Industries, a defense contractor located in Grantsburg WI, is looking for experienced CNC machinists for all shifts. Enjoy working in a clean ...

McNally Industries

CNC Machinist

Grantsburg, WI · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

1 st , 2 nd , and Weekend Shifts Available McNally Industries, a defense contractor located in Grantsburg WI, is looking for experienced CNC machinists for all shifts. Enjoy working in a clean ...

FAIRBANKS MORSE DEFENSE

CNC Machining - 2nd Shift

Beloit, WI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

CNC Machining - 2nd Shift

Beloit, WI · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Manufacturing Engineer

Beloit, WI · On-site

$71K - $91K/yr

We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy ...

FAIRBANKS MORSE DEFENSE

Manufacturing Engineer

Beloit, WI

$71K - $91K/yr

We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefense Contractor JobsDefense Contractor Jobs in Wisconsin

Defense Contractor information

See Wisconsin salary details

$9

$28

$48

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Wisconsin is $28.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Contractor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Contractor, you need expertise in project management, engineering or technical disciplines, and a thorough understanding of government procurement processes, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with defense standards, specialized software tools (like CAD or project management suites), and compliance with regulations such as ITAR or DFARS is crucial. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you navigate complex projects and collaborate with multiple stakeholders. These abilities are essential for delivering mission-critical solutions while adhering to strict security and contractual requirements.

What does a Defense Contractor do?

A Defense Contractor is a private company or individual that provides products or services to a nation's military. These can include weapons, vehicles, technology, logistics, and consulting services. They work closely with government agencies to support defense and national security efforts. Contractors must comply with strict regulations and often require security clearances.

What are some typical challenges faced by Defense Contractors, and how can they be managed?

Defense Contractors often navigate strict regulatory requirements, complex project specifications, and tight deadlines, all while maintaining high standards for security and quality. Adaptability and proactive communication are essential to successfully manage frequent changes in project scope or government priorities. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including military personnel and subcontractors, is also a key aspect of the job. Building strong organizational and problem-solving skills can help you meet these challenges and contribute to the success of mission-oriented projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Defense Contractor jobs in Wisconsin? For Defense Contractor jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Defense Contractor job openings:
Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,532 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Welding Operator Setup Fairbanks Morse Defense

Welding Operator Setup Fairbanks Morse Defense

FAIRBANKS MORSE DEFENSE

Beloit, WI

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it's the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it's like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers
2nd Shift Welder Operator Setup - Fairbanks Morse Engine
Build Power That Supports Critical Missions
At Fairbanks Morse Engine, your work directly supports some of the most demanding and mission-critical operations in the world.
Based in Beloit, Wisconsin, Fairbanks Morse Engine (FME) manufactures, assembles, tests, and distributes heavy-duty, medium-speed reciprocating engines under the Fairbanks Morse® and ALCO® brand names. As a trusted supplier to the U.S. Navy, Military Sealift Command, U.S. Coast Guard, and Canadian Coast Guard, FME delivers reliable marine power solutions that keep fleets operating worldwide.
FME is a division of Fairbanks Morse Defense, a portfolio company of Arcline Investment, and a recognized leader in marine propulsion and power systems.
If you take pride in craftsmanship, precision welding, and working on large-scale industrial equipment that makes a real impact, this is an opportunity to join a highly skilled manufacturing team where quality, safety, and expertise matter.
Position Summary
Primary Function
Perform assigned welding functions using a variety of welding procedures.
Shift Information
This position is assigned to 2nd shift after training is completed. Training will be conducted on 1st shift, followed by transition to 2nd shift assignment.
Security / Citizenship Requirement
Due to NOFORN policy, U.S. citizenship is required. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and cannot hold dual citizenship.
Tools & Equipment
  • Arc and gas welding and cutting equipment
  • Manual, semi-automatic, and related components
  • Welding stands, benches, positioning equipment, jigs, and fixtures
  • Measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, levels, protractors)
  • Standard hand tools (grinders, hammers, wire brushes, chisels)
  • Protective equipment, blueprints, WPS, engineering drawings, and process documentation

Materials
  • Ferrous and non-ferrous materials

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Receive job assignments, verbal instructions, sketches, blueprints, and welding procedures
  • Work to codes requiring third-party inspection verification
  • Perform setup operations on sub-assemblies and production parts
  • Perform welding on experimental jigs and fixtures
  • Plan, layout, and assemble work with or without fixtures
  • Weld in all positions as required
  • Cut, trim, grind, fit, tack weld, weld, solder, flame cut, and anneal components
  • Select filler metals and welding variables to control distortion and shrinkage
  • Read and interpret welding drawings and specifications
  • Determine weld size/type when not specified
  • Complete setup and welding operations as assigned
  • Operate magnaflux equipment and identify defects for Quality Control review
  • Maintain tolerances up to 1/64"
  • Support changeovers or modifications on semi-automatic welding systems.

Qualifications, Skills & Educational Requirements
  • Proven welding experience or technical welding knowledge
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawings
  • Understanding of quality control principles
  • Strong hand-eye coordination and physical capability for manufacturing work
  • High school diploma required; technical training preferred
  • Ability to work in a team-based manufacturing environment
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Strong attention to detail and confidentiality
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Customer-service mindset in a manufacturing/support environment
  • Forklift and overhead crane experience preferred

Why Join Fairbanks Morse Engine?
  • Work on mission-critical products supporting U.S. and allied defense operations
  • Join a respected manufacturer with a long-standing industry reputation
  • Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
  • Collaborative, skilled manufacturing environment focused on quality and safety
  • Stable organization with continued investment in U.S. manufacturing excellence

Equal Opportunity Employer
Fairbanks Morse is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, national origin, marital status, citizenship status (unless required by applicable law or government contract), disability, or protected veteran status, or any other protected status.
Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Apply