AFC Welder-Fitter/Fabricator

AFC Welder-Fitter/Fabricator


Company
General Dynamics Electric Boat
Location
Philadelphia, PA
Job Type
Full-time
Posted
7 days ago
Via
SonicJobs
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Job Description
Overview Have you ever wanted to join a team that builds the most sophisticated piece of machinery that plays a critical role in our nation’s defense? Our function: Build the outer hull of the Virginia and Columbia Class Nuclear Powered Submarines. The How: Encompassing both manual and mechanized pulse/spray welding processes along with shipfitting/metal fabrication functions. Duties include but are not limited to following: This position entails fabrication & welding plus all tasks associated with the steel trade Fabricate frames/cylinders to produce the pressure hull that are ready for outfitting functions; through the use of our variety of hydraulic fixtures Following work packages, fixture set up sheets, drawings, ER's, and SSP's in order to produce a quality product Reading and interpreting blueprints, welding symbols and fabrication drawing Preparing steel surfaces per drawing specifications for fabrication & welding of frames & cylinders Pass a semi-automatic and mechanized spray and pulse arc test (GMAPLS, GMASPS & GMASPM) to remain in the position after completing training Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision Prescription Coverage Health and Wellness Programs 401K Commuter/Van Services Paid Vacation and Holidays Paid Training Shift Differential for 2nd and 3rd Shift Professional Development and Advancement Opportunities This position is located at the Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown, RI. Qualifications Required: High school diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of 2 years related technical experience On the job welding experience or formal welding training or EB welding qualifications Ability to read and interpret welding and shipyard procedures, structural drawings, technical manuals, test documents and diagrams Available to work all shifts Ability to work at heights, confined spaces and extreme temperature conditions as required Pass a destructive bend weld test, a semi-automatic and mechanized spray and pulse test and meet minimum visual acceptance requirements Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools Some lifting & overhead welding will be required Ability to operate impact guns and high torque machinery Basic math skills Preferred: Shipfitting/metal fabrication experience EB AFC (Automated Frame & Cylinder) experience Experience in manual and/or semi-automatic welding processes Electric Boat apprentice programs Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs Military Skills Strong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment, meet organizational goals and follow all verbal and written instructions as directed Physical Qualifications Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting Environmental Attributes Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs

Q What is the median hourly wage for welders in the United States as of January 2026 including overtime rates?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median hourly wage for welders at $28.45 as of January 2026 with time-and-a-half overtime required after 40 hours under FLSA rules. Welders in manufacturing earn an additional $4.20 per hour on average for night shifts. Annual median earnings reach $59,176 for full-time roles.
Q How many hours per week can welders legally work in the United States without overtime pay in 2026?
The U.S. Department of Labor sets the standard workweek at 40 hours with overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate required after that threshold in 2026. Welders on federal contracts receive double time for hours over 48 in a workweek. Paid sick leave of up to 56 hours annually applies under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions.
Q What education and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states a high school diploma plus 6-12 months of postsecondary welding training or apprenticeship is required for 2026 entry-level positions. Three years of documented experience is mandatory for structural welding roles under AWS D1.1 standards referenced by DOL. Certification in SMAW or GMAW processes must be completed before hire.
Q What documents are required to apply for welder positions through U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeships in 2026?
Applicants must submit Form ETA-671, high school transcripts, and proof of U.S. work authorization to DOL-registered programs by March 2026 deadlines. A valid driver's license and negative drug test results from a SAMHSA-certified lab are mandatory. Background checks via FBI fingerprinting are required for nuclear or pipeline welding tracks.
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