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Shipbuilding Welding Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Welder

Alma, MI

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions -- and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder - Manufacturing

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Welder-Alma, Michigan

Crystal, MI

$21 - $27.75/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Welder-Alma, Michigan

Mcbride, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible ...

Robotic Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Robotic Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Robotic Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Welder - Hiring Now

Alma, MI · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Robotic Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Robotic Welder

Alma, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions -- and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Robotic Welder-Alma, Michigan

Crystal, MI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

Robotic Welder-Alma, Michigan

Mcbride, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride. Your Mission: As a Robotic Operator / Welder with Keel ...

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Shipbuilding Welding information

What is shipbuilding welding?

Shipbuilding welding refers to the specialized process of joining metal components together to construct ships and marine vessels. This type of welding must meet strict safety and quality standards due to the harsh marine environment and the need for watertight and durable joints. Shipbuilding welders use techniques such as MIG, TIG, and arc welding to assemble hulls, decks, and other structural elements. They often work from blueprints and must be skilled in handling large, complex assemblies. Proper training and certification are typically required to ensure the highest standards of workmanship and safety.

What are some common challenges welders face in shipbuilding, and how can they be addressed?

Welders in shipbuilding often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with varying weather conditions, and ensuring weld integrity on complex, large-scale structures. Safety is a constant concern due to the enclosed environments and heavy equipment used. To address these challenges, shipyards provide specialized safety training, utilize ventilation systems, and encourage teamwork to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Continuous learning and adherence to strict quality standards are also essential for overcoming these obstacles and advancing in the role.

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

To thrive as a Shipbuilding Welder, you need strong welding skills, familiarity with shipbuilding materials, and typically a relevant technical certification or apprenticeship. Proficiency in using MIG, TIG, and arc welding equipment, as well as reading blueprints and following safety protocols, is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this field. These skills ensure the structural integrity and safety of ships while meeting the rigorous standards of the maritime industry.

What is the difference between Shipbuilding Welding vs Shipyard Welding?

AspectShipbuilding WeldingShipyard Welding
CertificationsWelding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)Welding certifications (e.g., AWS, ASME)
Work EnvironmentLarge ship construction facilities, dry docksShip repair yards, maintenance docks
Industry UsageNew ship construction
Job FocusBuilding new ships from scratchRepair and maintenance of existing ships

Shipbuilding Welding and Shipyard Welding both require similar certifications and work in ship-related environments. However, Shipbuilding Welding focuses on constructing new ships, while Shipyard Welding primarily involves repairing and maintaining existing vessels. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry and often overlap in skills and certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Shipbuilding Welding jobs in Michigan?

For Shipbuilding Welding jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Shipbuilding Welding jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Shipbuilding Welding job openings:

Infographic showing various Shipbuilding Welding job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Built on Experience. Built for Skill. Built for You.
Keel was formed by bringing together three industry leaders combining generations of hands-on expertise in steel fabrication, shipbuilding, aerospace, and defense manufacturing.
That means when you join Keel, you're joining a team backed by decades of proven craftsmanship and real-world results.
We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions - and we do it with pride.
Your Mission:
As a Welder for Keel, you will be responsible for utilizing the for main welding processes, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, and SMAW, along with oxy-fuel cutting, carbon arc cutting, and plasma arc cutting to manufacture components from blueprints and utilizing Welding Procedure Specifications. Level I welders are considered to be in training under direct supervision of the department supervisor, while levels II and III are expected to have more advanced skills and responsibilities as listed below. All levels of welder will receive on the job training as required and necessary and are determined with a weld test and interview on site.
Explore the Depth of the Role:
Level I
  • Will show basic understand of four main welding processes, as well as cutting processes described above, to perform duties.
  • Should have basic understanding of weld symbols and positions as well as blueprint reading.
  • Requires general knowledge of various hand tools that will be used, such as grinders, tape measure, chipping hammers, and Personal Protective equipment.
  • Show a basic understanding of the differences between commonly used materials, such as carbon steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.
  • Will maintain welding supplies, welding equipment, and work environment
  • Will set parameters on their welding machine with guidance from the supervisor and show basic understanding of information on the Welding Procedure Specifications.

Level II
  • Same as above, but will also include the following:
  • Will have a basic understanding of AWS requirements.
  • Will fully understand information listed on Welding Procedure Specifications.
  • Will have a good understanding of weld symbols and use of weld gauges.
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of blueprint reading and effectively locating information.
  • Will have advanced skills in at least one of the main welding processes and advanced skills in cutting processes.
  • Will be able to be proficient cutting straight lines, shapes, and bevels utilizing manual and automatic equipment and on various materials.
  • Will be able to do so efficiently and with minimal supervision.

Level III
  • Same as above, but will also include the following:
  • Display expert skills in one of the main welding processes, as well as in cutting processes, listed above.
  • Advanced knowledge of blueprint reading that pertains to weld symbols and weld callouts.
  • Efficient and effective use of measuring equipment.
  • Must be able to convert between fractions and decimals, and between metric and standard units.
  • Good knowledge of the metallurgical effects of welding that include distortion and contamination.
  • Will be able to troubleshoot and correct welding equipment issues.
  • Will maintain a very low level of rework.
  • Must have the aptitude to assist and train Welders level I and II.

Requirements
Mission Readiness:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Technical training or equivalent experience of less than one (1) year or up to two (2) years for level I. Two (2) or more years for level II, and 5+ years for Level III.
  • Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions from supervisor.
  • Must demonstrate a willingness to learn, be part of a team environment, and receive constructive criticism with regards to quality to meet objectives.
  • All candidates must be able to pass criminal background and drug screening requirements.

Available Shifts:
Day Shift: Monday - Friday 6:00 am to 4:30 pm
Night Shift: Monday - Thursday 5:00 pm-5:30 am (Shift differential does apply)
Physical Requirements:
  • May be required to stand, walk, sit, reach/pull/push with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop or kneel regularly.
  • May lift or carry 50lbs. Weights exceeding 50lbs will require mechanical means to maneuver.

Become a part of our Builders and you too can...
  • Uphold Safety and Quality Standards
  • Embody Team Spirit
  • Relentless Customer Focus
  • Convey Integrity, Trust, and Professionalism
  • Execute with Excellence and Velocity

What Keel will build for you:
  • Comprehensive Benefit Package
  • Competitive Pay
  • 401(k) Match
  • HSA/FSA
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • Internal Referral Bonus Opportunities
  • Shift Differentials
  • Overtime Potential
  • Paid on the Job Training
  • Certification Sponsorship Opportunities
  • Committed to Individual Career Growth
  • We Do Fun Things, Plus More!

Need Assistance?
If you require a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the employment process, please email talent@keelusa.com with details about your request and your contact information. Accommodation requests are reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis. Please note that this email address is monitored only for inquiries related to reasonable accommodation requests.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans
What we build, builds us.