TIG Welder

The TIG Welder performs precision gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) on steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and specialty alloys in support of defense manufacturing production. This role requires the ability to interpret engineering drawings, weld to code and specification requirements, and maintain consistent quality in a shop that supports both prototype and production work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform TIG (GTAW) welding on carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other alloys per engineering drawings, weld procedure specifications (WPS), and customer requirements
• Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, geometric tolerances, and work instructions
• Set up and operate TIG welding equipment, selecting filler metals, gas flow rates, amperage, and torch configurations for each application
• Perform fit-up and tack welding of assemblies using fixtures, clamps, and layout tools
• Visually inspect completed welds for conformance to workmanship standards and acceptance criteria
• Maintain weld certifications and complete test coupons as required by applicable codes (AWS D1.1, D1.2, D1.6, D17.1, or customer-specific standards)
• Document work on travelers, routers, and production tracking systems as required by the quality management system
• Perform grinding, sanding, and post-weld cleanup to meet surface finish requirements
• Operate supporting shop equipment such as grinders, band saws, drill presses, and overhead cranes as needed
• Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE, ventilation, and hot work procedures
• Support continuous improvement and participate in root cause and corrective action activities when weld quality issues arise
• Maintain a clean and organized work area consistent with 5S standards

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on TIG welding experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
• Ability to weld in all positions (1G through 6G) on at least two material types, such as carbon steel and stainless steel, or stainless steel and aluminum
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, weld symbols, and GD&T callouts
• Current or recent weld certifications to AWS or equivalent code standards
• Proficiency with standard shop measuring tools, including tape measures, calipers, protractors, and weld gauges
• Must pass weld qualification testing as a condition of employment
• Must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR (22 CFR 120.62) or otherwise eligible for required export authorization

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of TIG welding experience, particularly on thin-gauge stainless steel or aluminum
• Experience welding to military or aerospace specifications (MIL-STD-1595, AWS D17.1, NAVSEA standards)
• Familiarity with weld procedure specifications (WPS) and procedure qualification records (PQR)
• Experience in a defense, aerospace, or similarly regulated manufacturing environment
• CWI, SENSE, or other relevant welding certifications
• Experience with MIG (GMAW) or stick (SMAW) welding as a secondary process
• Crane and forklift certification

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work in confined or awkward positions for extended periods
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly
• Manual dexterity sufficient for precision torch control and fine weld work
• Work is performed in a manufacturing shop with exposure to welding fumes, UV light, heat, and noise
• Required PPE includes a welding helmet with appropriate shade lens, gloves, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, and respiratory protection as applicable

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. ND Defense LLC reserves the right to modify duties and requirements as business needs evolve. This draft is subject to review and approval by appropriate authority before use in recruiting or compliance contexts.