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Defense Welding Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ascent Aerospace

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2nd Shift TIG Welder II

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Ability to set up welding machines based on the specifications of the job. * Read and interpret ... Department of Defense Secret Security Clearance: Though not required of this role, individuals that ...

Ascent Aerospace

Welder - 2nd Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

... and defense industry. We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full ... Set up welding machines based on the specifications of the job. * Read and interpret blueprints and ...

ascentaerospace

Welder - 2nd Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

... and defense industry. We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full ... Set up welding machines based on the specifications of the job. * Read and interpret blueprints and ...

Ascent Aerospace

Welder - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

... and defense industry. We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full ... Set up welding machines based on the specifications of the job. * Read and interpret blueprints and ...

ascentaerospace

Welder - 1st Shift

Santa Ana, CA

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

... and defense industry. We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full ... Set up welding machines based on the specifications of the job. * Read and interpret blueprints and ...

ANDURIL INDUSTRIES

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Perform sheet metal welding on stainless steel, aluminum, carbon steel, and copper-nickel as ...

Anduril Industries

Sheet Metal Fabricator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Perform sheet metal welding on stainless steel, aluminum, carbon steel, and copper-nickel as ...

Slope

Quality Engineer, Maritime

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Experience with quality control for special processes such as composite fabrication, welding ...

Anduril Industries

Quality Engineer, Maritime

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Experience with quality control for special processes such as composite fabrication, welding ...

Slope

Quality Specialist, Maritime

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied ... Experience with quality control for special processes such as composite fabrication, welding ...

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All JobsDefense Welding JobsDefense Welding Jobs in Riverside, CA

Defense Welding information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$31

$47

How much do defense welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense welding in Riverside, CA is $31.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.33 and $35.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Riverside, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Welding jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Welding jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Defense Welding jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Defense Welding job openings:

Defense Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Welding job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,642 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

2nd Shift TIG Welder II

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Ascent Aerospace
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Ascent Aerospaceexternal

$23 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

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Job description

We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full suite of both mold and assembly tooling required for the aerospace manufacturing market, including the largest Invar molds ever made— making us the largest tooling group in the industry.

SUMMARY OF POSITION

Under direct supervision the welder performs limited duties for fitting and welding of steel, aluminum and Invar 36 parts using a MIG/TIG process.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

This document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying the position.

  • Ability to set up welding machines based on the specifications of the job.
  • Read and interpret blueprints and/or drawings to determine the specific welding requirements.
  • MIG/TIG weld steel, aluminum and Invar 36 components based on the specifications of the blueprints and/or drawings.
  • Repair broken or damaged parts.
  • Fabricate and revise fixtures, jigs, gauges, hand applies and special tooling and components.
  • Keep work area clean and organized and take proper care of all equipment and facilities.
  • Work with team members to maximize productivity and efficiency.
  • Any additional duties as reasonably assigned by management.

REQUIRED SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful job performance will be considered. Typical qualifications would be:

  • Minimum High School Diploma/GED.
  • Experience with Steel, aluminum and/or Invar 36.
  • Experience with MIG and TIG welding.
  • Knowledge of machines and tools.
  • Ability to read blueprints, drawings, calipers, and tape measures.
  • This position must meet Export Control Compliance requirements, therefore a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22.C.F.R. is required. For further details as to how a “U.S. Person” is determined, please see SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS below!

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Ability to effectively handle tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Able to work varied shifts, overtime, and weekends when necessary.
  • Has confidence in leading processes, projects and looks for opportunities.
  • Ability to work with management team to help drive performance of location.
  • Department of Defense Secret Security Clearance: Though not required of this role, individuals that have current, previous, or are willing to go through the process to obtain and maintain during the duration of employment are preferred.
  • Minimum 5 – 10 years of relevant work experience and/or completion of certificate program in welding from a college or technical school.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

May be required to travel to other site locations during the workday and would primarily be local during the business day. However, some projects may require overnight stays as well as out-of-the-area travel paid for by the business.