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 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the median hourly wage for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is $25.22 as of May 2026 data. Welders in manufacturing earn $26.15 per hour on average while those in construction receive $24.80 per hour. Overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate applies after 40 hours per week under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Q What certifications and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, welders must complete a high school diploma or equivalent plus a postsecondary welding program lasting 6 to 18 months. AWS Certified Welder credential and 2,000 hours of documented experience are required for most positions in structural welding. Employers in shipbuilding and aerospace require additional ASME Section IX qualifications.
Q What are the standard working hours and paid leave entitlements for welders in the United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, full-time welders work 40 hours per week with overtime required after 40 hours. Workers receive at least 10 paid holidays and accrue 10 days of paid sick leave annually under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions. Union contracts in construction add 15 days of paid vacation after one year.
Q How are federal income taxes calculated on welder wages in the United States for 2026?
As per the Internal Revenue Service, welders earning $52,500 annually in 2026 pay 12% federal income tax on income between $11,601 and $47,150 plus 22% on the amount above $47,150. Social Security tax is withheld at 6.2% up to the $168,600 wage base. Employers must issue Form W-2 by January 31 each year.
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