Experienced MIG/TIG Welder – Defense & Industrial Fabrication

Skilled Welders Needed for Mission-Critical Defense & Industrial Fabrication Projects | Norfolk, VA

We’re a veteran-owned fabrication shop delivering complex, spec-driven parts for shipbuilding, infrastructure, and defense programs. We're hiring experienced MIG/TIG welders to perform precision welds on high-spec components in a fast-paced, quality-focused environment—supporting custom metal fabrication for defense, maritime, and industrial customers.

You’ll work with carbon steel, stainless, and aluminum parts that support naval, industrial, and maritime systems—bringing a steady hand and proven skillset to every weld. This role is ideal for certified welders with 5+ years of experience in defense or industrial fabrication, especially those familiar with NAVSEA and Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) standards.

This is a hands-on, high-accountability role where you’ll weld to spec, uphold strict safety standards, and help lead and mentor our welding team on increasingly complex projects. If you're looking for high-impact, high-discipline work in a mission-driven environment—this is where your skills matter.

📄 Job Type: Full-Time

💲 Pay: $22–$35 per hour (based on experience)

📍 Location: Norfolk Plant

🕒 Schedule Options | Available Shifts:

Monday–Thursday Day Shift | 4x10

Monday–Thursday Afternoon Shift | 4x10
Monday–Thursday Evening Shift | 4x10
Tuesday–Friday Day Shift | 4x10

Tuesday–Friday Afternoon Shift | 4x10

Tuesday–Friday Evening Shift | 4x10
Friday–Sunday Weekend Shift | 3x12 

🏭 About TST Fab & Machine

TST Fab & Machine is a growing, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business based in Norfolk, Virginia, specializing in high-spec metal fabrication and machining for the defense, maritime, and industrial sectors. We partner with clients across industries to deliver custom, precision-driven metalwork that meets the highest standards of quality and compliance.

Our team is made up of driven professionals who work together to exceed expectations and bring ideas to life—from concept through execution. Our welders play a direct role in shaping critical parts used in shipbuilding, infrastructure, and defense systems. We are known for our responsiveness, precision, and commitment to performance—and we take pride in delivering compliant, mission-ready work that supports national security and industrial progress.

If you're looking for a place where your experience, discipline, and pride in your craft are valued—you’ll find that and more at TST Fab & Machine.

🎯 Position Summary

As an experienced MIG/TIG Welder, you’ll fabricate, assemble, and weld complex parts to strict tolerances using blueprints, symbols, and technical documentation. You’ll perform welding operations across carbon, stainless, and aluminum, meeting rigorous contract and shipyard standards including NAVSEA and NNS requirements. You’ll support other team members, help train junior welders, and contribute to a shop culture centered on discipline, performance, and pride.

🔧Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced MIG and/or TIG welding on metal components in accordance with project, contract, and customer specifications
• Read and interpret complex fabrication blueprints, welding symbols, and technical documentation
• Select and set up appropriate welding equipment and tools based on material type, weld joint, and project requirements
• Cut, grind, and prepare materials for layout and fit-up using precision tools and shop equipment
• Align and clamp components using calipers, rulers, jigs, and fixtures to ensure precise weld placement
• Weld in multiple positions (flat, vertical, horizontal, overhead) using manual and semi-automatic processes, ensuring consistent quality, appearance, and penetration
• Conduct in-process weld inspections and participate in quality control procedures, including visual and dimensional inspection of welds
• Ensure welds meet all quality standards, tolerances, and documentation requirements (including NAVSEA, NNS, and MIL-SPEC standards)
• Collaborate with shop leads and supervisors to support job flow and meet production schedules
• Mentor and support junior welders, apprentices, or trainees as needed 
• Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment
• Maintain welding tools, equipment, and PPE in safe, working condition

✅  Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 5 years MIG and/or TIG welding experience in a fabrication, shipyard, or manufacturing environment
• Requires minimal oversight; able to manage own workload and complete assigned tasks independently
• Skilled in mentoring and supporting junior welders; prior leadership or workforce development experience is a plus
• Experience with additional welding processes (e.g., flux core, stick, fit-up, basic fabrication) is a plus ·        
• Demonstrated ability and experience working with carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other specialty metals such as copper alloys is a strong plus
• Proven experience working to NAVSEA, Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS), and/or MIL-SPEC standards
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, fabrication blueprints, welding symbols, and inspection instructions
• Proficient in the use of layout and power tools (e.g., grinders, saws, calipers, squares, measuring devices)
• Understanding of weld tolerances, visual inspection criteria, and quality documentation practices 
• Exceptional attention to detail, craftsmanship, and adherence to safety protocols
• Completion of a welding trade school, apprenticeship, or relevant military training required
• AWS certification or current NAVSEA/NNS qualification strongly preferred 
• Excellent time management, communication, and collaboration skills  
• High level of reliability, professionalism, and accountability
• Proficient in English (written and verbal communication)
• High school diploma or equivalent.

Why Join Our Team

✔️ Competitive pay based on experience
✔️ Flexible Schedule Options: 4x10 Day, 4x10 Evening, 4x10 Night, and Weekend Shifts 
✔️ $500–$1000 Employee Referral Bonus
✔️ Company-paid medical insurance (employee only)
✔️ Dental & vision benefits
✔️ 401(k) with company match
✔️ PTO & Paid Holidays
✔️ Flexible Schedule Options: 4-day and weekend shifts
✔️ Opportunities for career advancement
✔️ Supportive, safety-focused, veteran-owned & Mission-Driven Workplace

TST Fab & Machine is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, welcoming all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

🔧 Ready to bring your welds to the next level? Apply today.

Join a team where your expertise is respected, your work is valued, and your mission is clear.