Job Description:The L4 Staff Welder is a senior-level fabrication specialist responsible for precision welding, prototype development, and low-volume aerospace hardware fabrication in a fast-paced R&D and prototype manufacturing environment. This role supports engineering teams in building flight-critical and mission-critical components using advanced welding techniques and aerospace-grade materials. The ideal candidate combines expert welding craftsmanship with strong problem-solving skills, blueprint interpretation, and collaboration in prototype development cycles. Aerospace prototype welders are commonly expected to work with TIG/GTAW processes, interpret engineering drawings with GD&T, and support AS9100-quality environments.
What you'll do:- Perform precision TIG/GTAW welding on aerospace materials including stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, Inconel.
- Fabricate prototype assemblies, fixtures, tooling, and development hardware from engineering drawings, CAD models, and sketches.
- Read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and GD&T requirements.
- Work closely with design, manufacturing, and test engineers to iterate prototype designs rapidly.
- Execute welds capable of meeting aerospace inspection standards including dye penetrant, leak testing, and X-ray inspection where required.
- Set up and operate welding and fabrication equipment including TIG welders, orbital welders, saws, grinders, positioners, and fixturing tools.
- Inspect completed welds for dimensional accuracy, penetration, distortion, and cosmetic quality.
- Repair weld defects and recommend process improvements to improve manufacturability and repeatability.
- Support development and qualification of welding procedures and work instructions.
- Maintain compliance with AS9100, AWS, OSHA, and internal quality standards.
- Mentor junior welders and assist in establishing best practices within the fabrication shop.
- Document fabrication activities, process notes, and prototype deviations accurately.
Required qualifications:- High school diploma or GED required; technical welding certification preferred.
- 8+ years of precision welding experience in aerospace, motorsports, defense, or prototype manufacturing environments.
- Expert-level TIG/GTAW welding proficiency.
- Experience welding thin-wall tubing and precision assemblies.
- Ability to pass aerospace weld qualification tests in multiple positions and materials.
- Strong understanding of metallurgy, weld distortion control, heat management, and fixturing.
- Ability to read complex engineering drawings and GD&T.
- Experience with aerospace inspection requirements and quality systems.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills in cross-functional engineering environments.
Preferred qualifications:- AWS D17.1 or equivalent aerospace welding certification.
- Experience with pressure vessels, propulsion systems, fluid systems, or flight hardware.
- Familiarity with vacuum, leak-check, or clean-room fabrication requirements.
- Fabrication or machining familiarity.
- Experience in prototype or R&D environments supporting rapid iteration cycles.
- Ability to support design-for-manufacturing feedback during product development.
Physical requirements:- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Comfortable working around welding fumes, heat, and fabrication equipment while using PPE.
- Manual dexterity and visual acuity for precision weld work.
Work environment:- This position operates within a prototype aerospace fabrication shop supporting rapid development programs. Work may involve quick-turn engineering changes, low-volume production, and high-precision hardware fabrication under tight schedules.
Typical skills for success:- Precision craftsmanship
- Attention to detail
- Strong troubleshooting ability
- Ownership mentality
- Adaptability in fast-paced prototype environments
- Collaboration with engineering teams
$34 - $51 an hour
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Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
