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Lockheed Welder Salary Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Lockheed Welder Salary information

What are common challenges faced by welders at Lockheed Martin, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Welders at Lockheed Martin often work on highly specialized projects that require precise adherence to strict safety and quality standards. New hires may find it challenging to quickly adapt to advanced welding techniques and rigorous inspection processes. To prepare, candidates should familiarize themselves with aerospace-grade materials, blueprint reading, and continuous quality improvement practices. Team collaboration is essential, as welders frequently coordinate with engineers and quality assurance teams to ensure specifications are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welder at Lockheed Martin, and why are they important?

To thrive as a welder at Lockheed Martin, you need strong technical welding skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with formal welding certification preferred. Familiarity with MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as experience using precision measuring tools and reading blueprints, is essential. Key soft skills include teamwork, problem-solving, and a commitment to safety and quality standards. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the production of high-quality, reliable components for aerospace and defense applications.

What is the average salary for a welder at Lockheed Martin?

The average salary for a welder at Lockheed Martin typically ranges from $50,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level welders may start at the lower end of this range, while those with specialized skills or several years of experience can earn higher wages. Lockheed Martin also offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, which can add significant value to the overall compensation package.

What is the difference between Lockheed Welder Salary vs Lockheed Fabricator Salary?

CriteriaLockheed WelderLockheed Fabricator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, welding certifications (e.g., AWS)High school diploma, fabrication and welding certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, aerospace assemblyManufacturing, assembly, metal fabrication
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in aerospace manufacturingCommon in aerospace and industrial fabrication

Typically, Lockheed Welders earn slightly higher salaries than Lockheed Fabricators due to specialized welding skills. Both roles require similar certifications and work in aerospace manufacturing environments. The salary difference reflects the specialized nature of welding compared to general fabrication tasks.

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Lockheed Welder Salary jobs near you

Senior Materials, Process, & Test Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • Hybrid

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Developing and qualifying new materials, processes, and joining technologies for airframe structures.

  • Designing and executing test campaigns to validate material performance, safety, and compliance.

  • Interfacing with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure successful process implementation and scale-up.

Job description

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 — a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage — and this role is no exception.

The Role

Electra.aero, a next-gen aerospace technology company, seeks a dynamic and driven Senior Materials, Process, & Test Engineer. This role will lead the development, selection, testing, and certification of advanced materials and processes for Electra's 9-passenger hybrid-electric eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing) aircraft. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerospace materials and processes, structural and environmental testing, and certification pathways. This role requires a hands-on engineer who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and is excited to shape the materials and processes that enable next-generation aviation.

What You'll Do

  • Developing and qualifying new materials, processes, and joining technologies for composite and metallic airframe structures.
  • Leading material and process specifications, including supplier coordination and approval.
  • Designing and executing test campaigns (coupon-level through full-scale) to validate performance, safety, and compliance.
  • Applying knowledge of FAA Part 23 requirements, ASTM standards, and industry best practices for materials and process qualification.
  • Driving structural and material trade studies to balance weight, manufacturability, durability, and cost.
  • Supporting failure investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions related to material performance.
  • Interfacing with suppliers and manufacturing teams to ensure successful process implementation and scale-up.
  • Preparing and presenting at internal and external design/test reviews to demonstrate compliance and readiness.
  • Communicating technical information effectively across engineering teams, leadership, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or related STEM discipline).
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in aerospace materials and processes, including composite and metallic structures.
  • Expertise in aerospace material systems (metallic alloys, composites, adhesives, coatings, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of material processing methods (lamination, curing, heat treatment, bonding, welding, additive manufacturing, etc.).
  • Experience in design, planning, and execution of structural and environmental test programs.
  • Knowledge of certification pathways for materials and processes under FAA Part 23 or Part 25.
  • High competence with engineering fundamentals and ability to translate test data into actionable design/process insights.
  • Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
  • Strong work ethic and ability to independently lead projects from concept through validation.

Bonus Points

  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Compensation Range
$130,000—$160,000 USD

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.