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Defense Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Titanium Fabrication Corporation

TIG Welder

Fairfield, NJ · On-site

$20/hr

... welding. In this role, you'll support both defense and commercial customers by producing high-spec welds that meet stringent quality and industry standards. This is precision-driven, hands-on work ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Welding Engineer

Salem, OH

$29.75 - $41/hr

... naval defense activities for domestic shipyards as well as international allies. The ... Development of new weld process tests, mockups, and ownership of process through design ...

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How much do defense welding jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense welding in the United States is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Welder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Welder, you need proficiency in welding techniques (such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding), blueprint reading, and a relevant welding certification or vocational training. Familiarity with specialized welding equipment, military-grade materials, and standards like AWS or DoD specifications is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a strong focus on safety help individuals stand out in this field. These skills ensure the structural integrity and reliability of defense equipment, which is critical for national security and mission success.

What are the typical security and compliance requirements for welders working in the defense industry?

Welders in the defense industry must often adhere to strict security clearances and compliance standards due to the sensitive nature of the projects involved. This commonly includes passing background checks, following ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), and working in secure facilities where safety and confidentiality protocols are rigorously enforced. Additionally, welders may need to maintain certifications specific to military or government standards and participate in regular training to stay current with evolving regulations. Understanding and following these requirements is essential for career success and advancement in defense welding roles.

What is defense welding?

Defense welding refers to the specialized welding processes and techniques used in the defense industry to fabricate, repair, and maintain military equipment, vehicles, and infrastructure. This includes working on tanks, ships, aircraft, and other defense-related hardware, often requiring compliance with strict government and military standards. Defense welders must be skilled in various welding methods and familiar with materials like high-strength alloys and armor plating. Security clearance and specialized training are often required due to the sensitive nature of the work.

What is the difference between Defense Welding vs Structural Welder?

AspectDefense WeldingStructural Welder
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS)
Work EnvironmentMilitary facilities, defense contractorsConstruction sites, bridges, buildings
Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, military equipmentConstruction, infrastructure, commercial projects
Job FocusSpecialized welding for defense applicationsGeneral structural welding for buildings and infrastructure

Defense Welding and Structural Welder roles both require welding certifications and involve metal fabrication. However, Defense Welding focuses on military and defense-related projects, often in specialized environments, while Structural Welders work primarily on construction and infrastructure projects. The skills overlap, but the work settings and project types differ significantly.

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Defense Welding jobs near you
TIG Welder

TIG Welder

TITANIUM FABRICATION CORPORATION

Fairfield, NJ

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
TIG Welder
Location: Fairfield, NJ
Employment Type: Full-Time About the Role
TiFab is seeking a skilled TIG
Welder with experience in stainless steel and nickel alloys who is eager to
expand into titanium welding. In this role, you'll support both defense and
commercial customers by producing high-spec welds that meet stringent quality
and industry standards. This is precision-driven, hands-on work with
opportunities to earn advanced certifications-including titanium qualification.
What You'll Do
• Perform TIG welding in all positions on stainless steel, nickel alloys, and titanium (training provided)
• Pass TiFab's TIG welding assessment and qualify for required alloy and joint configurations
• Set up and lay out welding jobs using CAD drawings, fixtures, and diagrams
• Follow ASME and NAVSEA welding procedures and specifications
• Use rotary turntables, positioners, purge setups, and related tools
• Read and interpret drawings, weld symbols, and written instructions
• Pre-clean weld areas using acetone, grinders, and flapper wheels
• Tack weld and fabricate basic fixtures to support welding operations
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-compliant work area
• Perform basic maintenance on welding equipment
Must-Have Skills and Experience
• Strong manual TIG welding ability
• Proficiency reading blueprints and weld symbols
• Experience welding stainless steel and nickel alloys
• Ability to pass a TIG welding assessment
• Physical ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive hand motions
• High school diploma or GED
• Authorized to work in the U.S.
Nice-to-Have Skills
• Experience welding titanium
• NAVSEA or ASME welding experience
• General fabrication experience
• Experience with purge setups or high-spec welding environments
• Background in aerospace or defense welding
Who You Are
• Detail-oriented with strong hand-eye coordination
• Committed to cleanliness, precision, and strict quality standards
• Comfortable working independently while knowing when to ask questions
• Safety-focused and collaborative
• Motivated to develop new welding capabilities, including titanium
Additional Details
• Salary Range: Starting at $22-26 per hour (+$2 for titanium plate qualification)
• Shift: Mon-Thurs (6:30 AM - 3:30 PM), Fri (6-hour shift)
• Travel: Occasional travel for commercial jobs (per diem available)
• Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO

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