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Defense Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Welder - Hunt Valve

Salem, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it ... The welding processes may include GTAW (TIG), SMAW (Stick), FCAW (Flux Core), PAW (Plasma) and semi ...

BWX Technologies

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

BWXT is currently seeking a Welding Engineer for its Advanced Technologies location in Lynchburg ... S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is ...

BWX Technologies

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

BWXT is currently seeking a Welding Engineer for its Advanced Technologies location in Lynchburg ... S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is ...

Howmet Aerospace

Welding Specialist

La Porte, IN

As a Welding Specialist at our growing La Porte facility, this position will be responsible for ... defense applications, as well as forged wheels for commercial transportation. Howmet Aerospace is ...

BWX Technologies

Welding Engineer

Barberton, OH

$33.25 - $46/hr

... defense and space applications. Follow us on Twitter at @BWXTech and learn more at www.bwxt.com ... Welding Engineer - BWX Technologies, Inc. - Barberton, Ohio Responsibilities may include, but are ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Welder - American Fan

Fairfield, OH · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it ... Assembles utilizing MIG and TIG Welding equipment as well as a plasma torch * Process parts ...

BWX Technologies

Welding Engineer

Barberton, OH

$33.25 - $46/hr

... defense and space applications. Follow us on Twitter at @BWXTech and learn more at www.bwxt.com ... Welding Engineer - BWX Technologies, Inc. - Barberton, Ohio Responsibilities may include, but are ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Welder

Salem, OH

$16.50 - $20/hr

The company, now part of Fairbanks Morse Defense, is rapidly growing and in need of a Welder. Hunt offers a unique working environment that allows a hands-on individual to develop and grow as the ...

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Defense Welding information

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How much do defense welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 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 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 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.
More about Defense Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Welding jobs? Cities with the most Defense Welding job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Defense Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Welding jobs are:
Defense Welding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Welding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Welder - Hunt Valve

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Salem, OH • On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 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
Welder Job Description
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Shift: 1st
Position Summary:
Hunt Valve Company has been manufacturing shipboard valves for naval customers for decades. The company, now part of Fairbanks Morse Defense, is rapidly growing and in need of a Welder. Hunt offers a unique working environment that allows a hands-on individual to develop and grow as the company expands its footprint and maintains high performance as a trusted defense contractor.
Welder Responsibilities:
  • Perform all tasks in accordance with procedures and the company's training program.
  • Individual must be capable of Performance Qualification Testing & Certification to our facility's approved welding procedures used to fabricate valves for the Navy that meet the requirements of NAVSEA S9074-AQ-GIB-010/248 & NAVSEA S9074-AR-GIB-010/278.
  • Applicant must be able to read and interpret detailed procedures/blueprints and use multiple welding processes. The welding processes may include GTAW (TIG), SMAW (Stick), FCAW (Flux Core), PAW (Plasma) and semi-automatic machine autogenous welds. The thickness of fabrication welding ranges from 0.058" to 4".
  • Perform any other duties deemed necessary in connection with the position.

Education:
  • High School Diploma (Preferred)

Experience:
  • Applicant must have a minimum of 3-5 years welding experience in a shop environment.
  • Experience with a wide range of base metals, cladding, hard facing, dissimilar metal combinations and associated filler metals is required, such as carbon steel, alloy steels, stainless steel, Hastelloy, Inconel, Monel, Stellite, copper-nickel, aluminum-bronze and aluminum.

Required Skills:
  • MSSC CPT or similar certification preferred
  • Proficient at reading and understanding drawings and procedures
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Positive attitude and willingness to change tasks frequently
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work well alone and as part of a team

A qualified candidate may be asked to complete a weld test prior to hire.
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

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