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Federal Welding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

BWXT is currently seeking a Welding Engineer for its Advanced Technologies location in Lynchburg ... As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and ...

Welding Inspector Position Overview: To support ValvTechnologies welding production and inspections ... federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from ...

Welding Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$70K - $107K/yr

Duties/Responsibilities: · Develop, implement, and optimize welding procedures for various ... federal, state, or local law. Company Description At Milton Manufacturing Inc., we've been a ...

Apply Early

Welding Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$34.75 - $48/hr

BWXT is currently seeking a Welding Engineer for its Advanced Technologies location in Lynchburg ... As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and ...

Welding Engineer

Mount Pleasant, PA · On-site

$31.50 - $43.50/hr

Kavaliro is seeking a Welding Engineer to support a client onsite in Mt. Pleasant, PA ... federal, state, or local laws. Kavaliro is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified ...

June 16th, 2026 Welders/Fabricators Pay Range DOE: $19.00-21.00/hour Work Schedule: * Monday ... federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from ...

Welding Instructor

Bristol, PA

$48K - $62K/yr

Welding Instructor - Evening Program Bucks County Community College is seeking experienced welding ... Bucks County Community College participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government ...

Welding Instructor

Bristol, PA · On-site

$48K - $62K/yr

Welding Instructor - Evening Program Bucks County Community College is seeking experienced welding ... Bucks County Community College participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government ...

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Federal Welding information

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$14

$29

$45

How much do federal welding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for federal 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 is the difference between Federal Welding vs Commercial Welding?

AspectFederal WeldingCommercial Welding
CertificationsAWS Certified Welder, federal-specific safety trainingAWS Certified Welder, industry-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment facilities, military bases, federal projectsConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, private projects
Employer & Industry UsageFederal agencies, military, government contractorsPrivate companies, construction firms, manufacturing

Federal Welding involves working on government and military projects with specific safety and certification requirements, often in secure or specialized environments. Commercial Welding is more focused on private sector projects like construction and manufacturing, with certifications aligned to industry standards. Both roles require welding skills and certifications, but the work settings and project types differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by federal welders, and how can they prepare for them?

Federal welders often work on highly regulated projects that require strict adherence to government standards and safety protocols. One common challenge is maintaining certification and staying current with evolving codes, such as those set by the American Welding Society (AWS) or specific federal agencies. Additionally, federal welders may face tight project deadlines and work in diverse environments, including outdoors or on military bases. To prepare, it's important to pursue ongoing training, develop strong attention to detail, and build familiarity with government documentation and inspection processes.

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

To thrive as a Federal Welder, you need strong skills in various welding techniques, blueprint reading, and metal fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized welding certifications like AWS or ASME. Familiarity with welding equipment, safety protocols, and government contract standards is essential, as is experience with inspection systems and quality control tools. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication ensure precise workmanship and adherence to strict federal specifications. These skills and qualities are vital for meeting rigorous safety, quality, and regulatory requirements in federal projects.

What are federal welders?

Federal welders are professionals who perform welding work on projects that are funded, regulated, or overseen by the federal government. Their duties often involve adhering to strict codes and standards, such as those set by the American Welding Society (AWS) or specific government agencies. Federal welders may work on infrastructure projects, military equipment, or government buildings, and they must often pass certification tests and security clearances. Their work is crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of critical government assets.
More about Federal Welding jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Welding jobs? Cities with the most Federal Welding job openings:
What states have the most Federal Welding jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Welding jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Welding jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Welding jobs are:
Infographic showing various Federal Welding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,961 per year, or $29.8 per hour.
Welding Technologist

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16308
Level: TN03
Overview:
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory seeks to hire a Welding Technologist for the Fabrication, Instrumentation, & Inspection Division in the Facilities & Operations Directorate. We are the largest U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. Our diverse capabilities span a broad spectrum of scientific and engineering disciplines, enabling the Laboratory to explore fundamental science challenges and to carry out the research needed to accelerate the delivery of solutions to the marketplace.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • NDE & welding examinations, testing and inspection of steam valves, pressure vessels, sheet metal and ductwork, piping components, structural assemblies and other fabrication assemblies as required for repair work and new construction.
  • Ability to perform work in both a shop and field environment.
  • Create Isometric drawings for weld tracking.
  • Produce accurate inspection records.
  • Qualification of welding procedures for compliance with ASME & AWS codes.
  • Welder and welding operator qualification and continuity log maintenance and verification.
  • Verification of material chemistry and mechanical requirements to national and foreign standards.
  • Other inspection duties as requested (e.g. fixed ladder inspections, receipt inspections, etc.).
  • Coordinate with other inspectors and ORNL personnel to complete job requirements.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • ASNT Level II certification or previous certification in the following disciplines is required: Penetrant testing and AWS Certified Welding Inspector with 7 years of relevant experience.
  • Ability to maintain and/or renew ASNT Level II and AWS CWI certifications.
  • A strong welding background.
  • Working knowledge of ASNT, ASME B-31, API, ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, hydrostatic and pneumatic testing is required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain certifications in additional areas of NDE.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • ASNT Level II Certification for MT, and NBIC Boiler Inspection Certification.
  • Experience with qualification of welders and welding procedures for compliance with ASME & AWS codes.
  • Background experience in pressure vessel repair, new construction, and installation.
  • Strong knowledge of shop and field welding, fabrication, and inspection techniques.
  • Willing to obtain tower/stack climbing and rescue training.
  • Ability to communicate well with staff in verbal and written formats, experience using Microsoft Office software effectively.
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:
  • Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • Visa Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • HSPD-12 PIV badge: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.
  • For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required.
  • Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
  • To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

About ORNL
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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