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Defense Welding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Welder - Manufacturing

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray ...

Welder III

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. (Continental Tide) is an industry leader, providing ... Perform various welding processes to repair, modify and install various pipes, structures ...

Welder B

Danville, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

S. and allied defense , with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national ... Set up and complete MIG, TIG, and Flux Core welding in the assembly of parts to MIL-Standard ...

Welder B

Danville, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

S. and allied defense , with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national ... Set up and complete MIG, TIG, and Flux Core welding in the assembly of parts to MIL-Standard ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Hampton, VA · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines ... The position requires advanced welding and fabrication expertise, as well as the ability to ...

Welder B

Danville, VA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

S. and allied defense , with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national ... Set up and complete MIG, TIG, and Flux Core welding in the assembly of parts to MIL-Standard ...

Welder C

Danville, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

S. and allied defense , with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national ... Key Responsibilities: • Set up and complete MIG, TIG, and Flux Core welding in the assembly of ...

Welder C

Danville, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

S. and allied defense , with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national ... Set up and complete MIG, TIG, and Flux Core welding in the assembly of parts to MIL-Standard ...

Welder C

Danville, VA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

S. and allied defense , with your skills, creativity, and impact directly contributing to national ... Key Responsibilities: · Set up and complete MIG, TIG, and Flux Core welding in the assembly of ...

Welder II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. (Continental Tide) is an industry leader, providing ... Perform various welding processes to repair, modify and install various pipes, structures ...

Welder II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

Continental Tide Defense Systems, Inc. (Continental Tide) is an industry leader, providing ... Perform various welding processes to repair, modify and install various pipes, structures ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Welding information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense welder?

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Welding jobs in Virginia?

For Defense Welding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Welding jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Welding jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Defense Welding jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Defense Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Welding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Welder - Manufacturing

HII

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,623 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Requisition Number: 29380
Required Travel: 51 - 75%
Employment Type: Full Time/Hourly/Non-Exempt
Anticipated Salary Range: $44,808.00 - $55,000.00
Security Clearance: Ability to Obtain
Level of Experience: Mid
This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.
Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies
Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every employee grows, leads, and contributes-regardless of role. It sets the standard for how you can develop yourself and what you can expect from leaders across our organization. We look for candidates who want to grow in alignment with these capabilities:
  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.

These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.
Come Join HII Where Hard Stuff Is Done Right!
HII Platform Modernization (PM) trades teams provide expert solutions on submarine alterations and installations for fleet modernization. The selected Marine Welder/Fitter** candidate will support PM, working closely with our skilled trades teams, on active class surface ships, using various welding processes, mechanical techniques and related duties to remove, install, and upgrade industrial equipment, assisting with alterations and installations for fleet modernization on various contracts.
Selected candidates will be required to travel to shipyards and military bases located around the country and abroad when not assigned to a local task. Per Diem provided based on location when on travel. Travel and lodging expenses are covered by the company.
**Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray qualification testing and pass with a satisfactory grade from our Quality Assurance Team within the first three weeks from start date for continued employment.
Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Display levels of quality, integrity, safety, respect, engagement, and performance consistent with company values.
  • Support trades team by working on active class surface ships to assist with alterations and installations for fleet modernization.
  • Perform all work in accordance with established quality and safety procedures.
  • Perform a variety of simple and complicated tasks, both routine and non-routine, including those outside of specialty, related to shipboard maintenance to meet standards on various contracts at company, customer and/or field locations.
  • Work from blueprints, engineering sketches, charts, or work orders.
  • Fabricate, maintain, repair, and modify structural elements and equipment.
  • Lay out and mark points and lines on parts or subassemblies using rule, square, scribe or templates.
  • Cut, fit, assemble, and position pieces to be welded into jigs, holding fixtures, and existing structure using hand and powered tools.
  • Apply comprehensive understanding of appropriate welding processes (SMAW, FCAW, GMAW) and production to join, surface, fabricate, and repair parts of metal, sheet metal, and other weld-able materials toward completion of assignments.
  • Work with technical documents including controlled work packages, formal work processes and procedures, test documents, reports and task or trip reports.
  • Maintain effective communications and relations. Provide reports to team and senior management.

Minimum Qualifications
**Candidates must be able to demonstrate welding ability on needed processes through X-ray qualification testing and pass with a satisfactory grade from our Quality Assurance Team within the first three weeks from start date for continued employment.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Must have High School education or Trade School or equivalent, and 4 years of related experience welding aboard naval vessels. Prefer technical/professional certifications.
  • Must be able to obtain medical clearance to wear a half-face respirator.
  • Must have welding experience with stick welding (SMAW), Flux Core (FCAW) and Aluminum MIG (GMAW) processes in all positions from 2G to 6G.
  • Must have working experience reading and interpreting drawings, blueprints, weldments, technical manuals, engineering sketches, charts and/or work orders as well as written and verbal instruction for products to be fabricated and/or installed.
  • Must be able to accurately read and follow welding symbols.
  • Must be able to accurately read measuring devices to 1/16 of an inch.
  • Must be able to work outside of trade specific requirements as team projects require, assisting team members towards task completion.
  • Must demonstrate applied comprehensive knowledge of quality control procedures to verify accuracy, compliance, and workmanship throughout all stages of fabrication and equipment operation.
  • Must be able to follow and enforce safety procedures.
  • Must have experience working in a team environment and be able to communicate effectively with others.
  • Must provide hand tools and trade specific PPE per trades designation
  • Must be able to travel up to 75% when not assigned to local tasking.

Preferred Requirements
  • Candidates with experience TIG welding pipe are preferred.
  • Candidates with current or prior welding certificates applicable with MIL-STD-248 preferred.
  • Candidates who are currently enrolled or have graduated from and/or completed a vocational school or skilled trades certificate program are preferred.
  • Current OSHA 10 Maritime Certificate a plus.
  • Candidates with current security clearances are preferred.

Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 30 lbs. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces. Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels. May ride ships at sea for extended periods. May require wearing a respirator. Travel may be required within and outside of the continental United States.
The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [email protected] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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