1

Dod Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aluminum Welder

Lansing, MI · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

Familiarity with military/DoD welding documentation and inspection requirements (ITAR, ISO, etc.). * Ability to provide technical direction and training to other welders. Education: * High school ...

Aluminum Welder

Lansing, MI

$21.25 - $28/hr

Familiarity with military/DoD welding documentation and inspection requirements (ITAR, ISO, etc.). * Ability to provide technical direction and training to other welders. Education: * High school ...

Aluminum Welder

Lansing, MI

$21.25 - $28/hr

Familiarity with military/DoD welding documentation and inspection requirements (ITAR, ISO, etc.). * Ability to provide technical direction and training to other welders. Education: * High school ...

Aluminum Welder

Lansing, MI

$19.25 - $25/hr

Familiarity with military/DoD welding documentation and inspection requirements (ITAR, ISO, etc.). * Ability to provide technical direction and training to other welders. Education: * High school ...

The Welding Lead addition will play a pivotal role in developing and implementing processes and ... Active DoD Secret clearance.

New

Welder (DOD SkillBridge)

Cleveland, OH

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

Welder (DOD SkillBridge) | Cleveland Want to build large complex fabrications for submarines? That ... General welding and shop duties as needed What You Should Bring to this Role: * Experience in ...

Weld Engineer

Cheswick, PA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Our Welding Engineers support our Welding and Manufacturing team so that the pumps and equipment we ... Due to DoD requirements, candidates must be US citizens Must be able to obtain and maintain DoD ...

TIG Welding Lead

Columbia, SC · On-site

$19 - $24.50/hr

Structural welding, skid welding to support piping ... Must know how to read a blueprint/drawing * QC knowledge, DOD, DOE work is a plus * Understanding ...

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required. Preferred Skills and Qualifications * 6-8 years or more experience in welding and/or Additive ...

TIG Welding Lead

Columbia, SC

$19 - $24.50/hr

Structural welding, skid welding to support piping ... Must know how to read a blueprint/drawing * QC knowledge, DOD, DOE work is a plus * Understanding ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dod Welding information

See salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do dod welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dod 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.

How to become a welder for the DoD?

To become a welder for the Department of Defense, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant welding certifications such as AWS (American Welding Society), and experience with industrial welding techniques. Security clearance may be required, and candidates often undergo background checks and physical assessments; proficiency with tools like MIG, TIG, or stick welding is essential.

What kind of welders make 300k a year?

Welders in specialized fields such as underwater welding, pipeline welding, or aerospace welding can earn around $300,000 annually. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-risk or high-demand environments.

What is a DoD Welding job?

A DoD Welding job involves performing welding tasks on metal components for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) or its contractors. These welders work on military vehicles, ships, aircraft, and infrastructure, ensuring they meet strict government standards for quality and durability. DoD welders must often obtain security clearances and follow military-grade specifications, such as MIL-STD or AWS standards. They may work in shipyards, military bases, or defense contractor facilities.

Can you make $100,000 as a welder?

Welders can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and experience in high-demand industries like construction, manufacturing, or pipeline work. Factors such as specialization in certain welding techniques, working overtime, and geographic location can influence earning potential.

What are the typical work environments for DoD Welders, and how do they differ from commercial welding roles?

DoD Welders frequently work in secure government or military facilities, shipyards, or on defense-related construction sites, where high standards of safety and security are upheld. The environment can be more structured than typical commercial settings, with additional protocols for access and handling of sensitive materials. Welders are expected to follow strict documentation procedures and may work closely with engineers, inspectors, and military personnel to ensure all specifications are met. This structured and collaborative environment fosters precision and accountability, and those in the role can often access unique training and advancement opportunities in defense-related fields.

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

To thrive as a DoD Welder, you need strong welding skills in multiple processes (such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding), familiarity with blueprint reading, and completion of relevant technical training or apprenticeship programs, often with specific Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance. Certification from organizations like the American Welding Society (AWS) and experience using specialized welding equipment are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective collaboration are critical soft skills in this environment. These abilities ensure welders can meet rigorous quality, safety, and security standards essential to DoD projects.

What is a DoD welder?

A DoD welder is a professional who performs welding work for the Department of Defense, often requiring specialized skills in military-grade materials and standards. They typically need security clearances, certifications such as AWS or ASME, and work in controlled environments with strict safety protocols.
More about Dod Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Dod Welding jobs? Cities with the most Dod Welding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dod Welding jobs? The most popular types of Dod Welding jobs are:
What states have the most Dod Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Dod Welding jobs include:
Welder - Submarine Building

$19.75 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Loc Performance rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.
Job Summary:
We are seeking dependable and skilled Welders to join our defense manufacturing team at various levels (I, II, and III). Welders are responsible for producing high-quality welds on components used in military and defense applications while maintaining strict adherence to safety, quality, and production standards. Each level builds upon the previous, with increasing technical ability, complexity of work, and leadership expectations.
Essential Functions:
  • Perform MIG and/or TIG welding on a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and armor-grade metals.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and work instructions.
  • Prepare and align parts for welding using clamps, jigs, and fixtures.
  • Conduct visual and dimensional inspections of completed welds to ensure compliance with quality standards.
  • Maintain and operate welding equipment in accordance with manufacturer and shop guidelines.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet daily production goals.
  • Adherent to all safety policies, procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
  • Perform all job-related duties, including but not limited to the responsibilities outlined above, and any additional tasks as assigned.

Welder Level 1
Minimum Qualifications:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)
  • Basic proficiency in MIG and/or TIG welding techniques.
  • Ability to read and interpret simple blueprints and welding symbols.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
  • Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Education:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Technical certification or formal training in welding or fabrication preferred.
  • Additional certifications (AWS, ASME, or equivalent) are a plus for Welder II and III.
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience
  • 0-2 years of welding experience or completion of a certified welding training program.

Welder Level 2
Minimum Qualifications:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)
  • Proficiency in MIG and TIG welding across multiple positions (flat, horizontal, vertical).
  • Working knowledge of metallurgy and weld inspection methods.
  • Ability to interpret complex blueprints and work instructions.
  • Familiarity with DoD or ISO quality standards preferred.
  • Strong problem-solving and multitasking skills.
  • Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to obtain an overhead crane permit as part of job requirements.

Education:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Technical certification or formal training in welding or fabrication preferred.
  • Additional certifications (AWS, ASME, or equivalent) are a plus for Welder II and III.
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience:
  • 2-3 years of welding/fabrication experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

Supervisory: May assist in mentoring or training Level I Welders.
Welder Level 3
Minimum Qualifications:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (as demonstrated through experience, training and/or testing)
  • Advanced proficiency in MIG and TIG welding, including aluminum, steel, and armor.
  • Ability to perform welding in all positions, including overhead.
  • Knowledge of weld procedures, metallurgy, distortion control, and fabrication methods.
  • Familiarity with military/DoD welding documentation and inspection requirements (ITAR, ISO, etc.).
  • Ability to provide technical direction and training to other welders.

Education:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Technical certification or formal training in welding or fabrication preferred.
  • Additional certifications (AWS, ASME, or equivalent) are a plus for Welder II and III.
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Experience:
  • 3+ years of welding/fabrication experience, preferably in defense, aerospace, or heavy industrial manufacturing.

Supervisory: May lead small teams, provide technical guidance, and assist in coordinating daily welding tasks.
Background Prerequisites:
Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks and controlled substance testing.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in defense or aerospace manufacturing environments.
• Certifications in MIG/TIG or specialized materials (steel, aluminum, armor).
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and quality management systems.
• Experience leading or mentoring team members (for Welder III).
Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
With or without reasonable accommodation requires the physical and mental capacity to perform effectively all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:
  • Frequently lift and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, kneel, bend, and reach for extended periods.
  • Frequently climb in and out of military vehicles and up and down ladders.
  • Capable of working in confined spaces and elevated platforms as required.
  • Exposure to noise, dust, heat, and welding fumes in an industrial manufacturing setting.
  • Must wear appropriate PPE including helmet, gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing.
  • Ability to perform repetitive welding motions for prolonged periods.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
American Rheinmetall provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or marital status, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.