Job location: Ladson, SC
Company Name: Keel USA
Work Schedule: Day: 6:00 AM–4:30 PM, Mon–Thurs Night: 5:00 PM–3:30 AM, Mon–Thurs
Work arrangement: Onsite
Compensation Minimum: US$23
Compensation Maximum: US$32
Date Published: Feb 25, 2026
Job ID: 1206047
Industry: Manufacturing, Aerospace
Specialty: Defense
Title: Welder I
Location: Ladson, SC
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
Keel is seeking skilled Welders to support fabrication of critical assemblies for Columbia-class and Virginia-class submarines, as well as Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers. This role performs welding in accordance with NAVSEA and AWS D1.1 specifications in a highly regulated defense manufacturing environment. Candidates must be able to pass required weld tests and internal qualifications.
What You’ll Do
- Weld pre-fitted assemblies in all positions with minimal defects
- ·Perform FCAW, GMAW-Pulsed, and GMAW-Spray welding in accordance with NAVSEA and AWS D1.1 standards
- Set up welding machines and perform basic troubleshooting
- Read and interpret welding symbols and structural blueprints
- Perform grinding, gouging, and weld repairs as needed
- Determine correct welding method and equipment based on job requirements
- Ensure work meets quality, safety, and production standards
- Complete work within budget and established timelines
- Follow all safety protocols in hazardous and high-compliance environments
- Travel occasionally between plants as required
Must-Have Skills and Experience (These are required for consideration.)
- High school diploma or GED
- Successful completion of one of the following:
- Accredited trade school welding program, or
- Minimum 2 years of demonstrated AWS D1.1 welding experience, or
- Equivalent combination of education and hands-on experience
- Ability to successfully complete 7 weld tests:
- FCAW (2G, 3G, 4G)
- GMAW-Pulsed (2G, 3G, 4G)
- GMAW-Spray (2G)
- Ability to pass Welder Workmanship Training (WWT)
- Ability to complete Welder I Performance Qualification Standards within 90 days of hire
- Ability to read and interpret welding symbols and complex blueprints
- Comfortable working in a hazardous, high-noise, high-heat manufacturing environment
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods
Nice-to-Have Skills (These are preferred but not required.)
- Prior NAVSEA welding experience or certification
- Shipbuilding or heavy steel fabrication experience
- Experience working in military, government, or defense-regulated environments
- Experience with submarine or aircraft carrier assemblies
Who You Are
- Safety-first mindset with strong attention to detail
- Takes pride in producing high-quality welds with minimal defects
- Open to constructive feedback and continuous improvement
- Reliable, focused, and able to stay on task in a fast-paced environment
- Team-oriented with strong communication skills
- Willing to work overtime when project demands require it
Additional Details
• Schedule:
- 1st Shift: Monday–Thursday, 6:00 AM–4:30 PM (3 openings)
- 2nd Shift: Monday–Thursday, 5:00 PM–3:30 AM (2 openings)
• Salary Range: Starting at $26.50/hr, increases based on experience
• Travel: Occasional travel between facilities as needed
• Certifications: Must pass 7 required weld tests; NAVSEA preferred for experienced welders
Benefits:
- PTO begins Day 1 (prorated, front-loaded)
- Benefits begin on Day 91
- Medical (Blue Choice), Dental (Guardian), Vision (VSP)
- HSA, FSA, Telehealth, EAP
- Life Insurance, AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability
- 9 standard holidays plus 1 floating holiday
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