Become a Professional Welder at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, is currently seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Welder to join its production team. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation’s defense by performing precision welding on critical nuclear and non-nuclear infrastructure. If you are an experienced welder looking for a stable federal career with excellent benefits and meaningful work, this position is for you.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will work within the Structural Shop, performing essential tasks including:

Conducting high-quality welds on nuclear and non-nuclear piping and pressure vessels.
Ensuring all work meets extreme X-ray standards and engineering specifications.
Directing and mentoring helpers, apprentices, and fire watchers.
Operating manual and pneumatic power tools for grinding and deburring.
Setting up and monitoring gas purges for internal piping systems.
Coordinating the alignment of components using fixtures and jigs.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must demonstrate the skill level required to work with minimal supervision. Your resume must clearly outline your experience, including:

Relevant welding history with dates and hours worked.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and safety standards.
Willingness to undergo drug testing and security clearance procedures.
Submission of a compliant, two-page resume.

Salary and Benefits Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$39.95 - $46.60 per hour
Location	Kittery, Maine
Clearance	Secret Required
Schedule	Full-Time

Application Tips

Focus on Quality: Highlight your experience with high-pressure, X-ray inspected welds.
Use the Resume Builder: This tool helps you capture all mandatory federal resume information.
Follow Page Limits: Do not exceed two pages for your resume.
Proofread: Ensure all dates, employment details, and certifications are legible.

This Welder position at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is more than just a job; it is a vital role in safeguarding national infrastructure. By applying your technical expertise to the Navy's mission, you ensure that our fleet remains operational and secure. Apply today to start your civilian career with the Department of the Navy.

Why This Welder Job Matters

Join the elite team at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard: Use your expert welding skills to support critical national security missions.

Welder Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a highly skilled Welder to join the Structural Shop at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. This role is pivotal in maintaining nuclear and non-nuclear piping and pressure vessels, requiring precision, excellence, and a dedication to superior workmanship. You will be responsible for producing high-quality welds that meet stringent X-ray standards while ensuring safe, efficient operations within a high-stakes maritime environment.

Requirements for Welder

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to perform the work of the position without more than normal supervision.
Ability to use and maintain specialized welding tools and equipment.
Demonstrated dexterity, safety consciousness, and knowledge of metal properties.
Compliance with security clearance requirements (Secret).
Must pass pre-employment drug testing.
Ability to submit a complete application package (resume limited to 2 pages, assessment questionnaire, and supporting documents).

Preferred Qualifications for Welder

Experience with nuclear and non-nuclear piping and pressure vessel welding.
Documented proficiency in mirror welding techniques.
Experience directing helpers, apprentices, and fire watchers.
History of achieving high-quality welds that pass rigorous X-ray inspection standards.
Familiarity with interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and pay structure.
✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits and savings plans.
✓Paid time off and federal holidays.
✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
✓Stable career path within the Department of the Navy.

💡 How to Apply Welder Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Welder Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Review the specific job announcement requirements and assessment questionnaire.
Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) detailing work history, including employer names, dates, and duties.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documentation, such as transcripts, certifications, or veteran preference documents (DD-214).
Submit your complete application before the August 13, 2026, deadline.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
Clearly define your experience with specific dates and hours worked per week.
Double-check your resume for legibility and length constraints (max 2 pages).
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Verify that your uploaded documents cover every eligibility claim made in your questionnaire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of welding experience is required?

You must demonstrate the ability to perform high-quality welding on nuclear and non-nuclear pressure vessels and piping systems, specifically focusing on passing strict X-ray standards.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.

Are there limitations on the resume length?

Yes, resumes are restricted to a maximum of 2 pages. Ensure it is clear, legible, and includes all necessary professional history.

Job from United States Fleet Forces Command

The Department of the Navy is a leader in maritime excellence, providing an environment where civilian expertise directly supports military readiness. As an employee at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, you become part of a legacy of innovation and commitment to safety. The Navy offers a structured career path, generous benefits, and the pride of contributing to the national security mission.