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ToggleWelders Careers in the USA for Foreigners ( 2025 – How to Apply Online for Military Welding Jobs
Welding is a skilled trade that plays a vital role in industries such as construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, and defense. For foreign workers looking to work as welders in the United States, opportunities abound, especially within the military and defense sector. With the demand for skilled welders constantly rising, the U.S. offers various pathways for foreigners to secure a welding job in 2025. This guide will take you through how to apply for welding jobs online, including military welding jobs and the steps involved in obtaining the necessary work permits.
Why Consider a Welding Career in the USA?
The United States continues to be a top destination for skilled workers across the globe, including welders. Welding jobs are in high demand across various sectors such as:
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Construction: Building infrastructure, pipelines, bridges, and high-rise buildings.
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Manufacturing: Automotive, aerospace, and other industries requiring advanced welding technologies.
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Oil & Gas: Welding in offshore drilling platforms and pipelines.
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Military and Defense: The U.S. military regularly hires skilled welders for various defense projects, including welding for ships, submarines, aircraft, and military equipment.
In addition to job opportunities, welding jobs in the U.S. often come with competitive salaries, benefits, and the potential for advancement.
Types of Welding Jobs in the U.S. for Foreigners
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General Welding Jobs in Construction and Manufacturing:
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These positions are available across various industries, such as automotive, steel fabrication, and construction. Welders are needed to work on pipelines, bridges, vehicles, and heavy machinery.
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Job Requirements: Employers may require certifications from recognized organizations such as American Welding Society (AWS). Experience with welding techniques like MIG, TIG, or Stick welding is a plus.
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Military Welding Jobs (2025):
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The U.S. military has specialized welding jobs in the Navy, Army, and Air Force, where welders are tasked with maintaining and repairing military equipment such as vehicles, ships, aircraft, and military-grade machinery.
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Job Requirements: For military welding jobs, foreign nationals will often need to have specialized experience in welding and may be required to obtain a security clearance and meet physical fitness standards. These jobs often require U.S. citizenship, but certain exceptions can be made based on your specific qualifications.
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How to Apply for Welding Jobs in the USA for Foreigners (2025)
Step 1: Obtain Necessary Certifications and Experience
Before applying for welding jobs in the U.S., make sure you have the required certifications and relevant work experience. Employers in the U.S. often look for:
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Welding Certification: Certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS) or equivalent organizations. Some popular certifications include:
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Certified Welder (CW)
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Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
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Certified Welding Educator (CWE)
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Work Experience: At least 2-5 years of experience in welding can significantly improve your chances of getting hired.
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Military-Specific Experience: If you’re targeting military welding jobs, experience in the military or a related technical field can be beneficial. However, some military roles may offer training programs for non-U.S. citizens with the right qualifications.
Step 2: Search for Welding Job Openings Online
Once you have the required qualifications and experience, you can start your job search. Several websites list welding jobs for foreigners:.
Step 3: Apply Online for Welding Jobs
After finding relevant job postings, you can apply directly on the websites. When applying, ensure you:
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Submit an up-to-date resume tailored to the job description.
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Include welding certifications and any other relevant documentation.
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Prepare for interviews by reviewing common welding-related questions and ensuring you understand the job requirements.
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If applying for military welding jobs, check if additional paperwork, such as security clearances, is required.
Step 4: Obtain a Work Visa (for Foreign Workers)
Foreign nationals need a work visa to work legally in the U.S. Here’s how to navigate the visa process:
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H-2B Visa: This visa is for temporary workers and may apply to welders working in the construction or manufacturing industries.
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Employment-Based Immigrant Visa (EB-3): If you’re looking for a permanent position, you can apply for an EB-3 visa, which is available for skilled workers.
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Security Clearance for Military Jobs: For foreign nationals applying for military welding positions, they may need to go through a security clearance process and meet specific eligibility requirements.
Salary Expectations for Welders in the U.S.
Welding salaries in the U.S. vary based on location, industry, and experience. On average:
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Entry-Level Welders: $18–$22 per hour.
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Experienced Welders: $25–$35 per hour.
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Military Welders: Salaries can range between $30,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on rank, location, and specific duties.
In addition to base pay, many welders receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay.
Military Welding Jobs in the U.S. (2025)
Military welding jobs offer unique opportunities, especially for those with technical expertise. The U.S. Navy, Army, and Air Force need skilled welders to maintain and repair military-grade machinery and equipment.
Here are some examples of military welding roles:
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Navy Hull Technicians: Specialize in welding and metalworking for naval ships, submarines, and other naval assets.
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Army Maintenance Welders: Repair and maintain military vehicles, tanks, and equipment.
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Air Force Welders: Work on aircraft, vehicles, and airfield maintenance.
Military welding positions often require U.S. citizenship, but exceptions may be made based on military needs or specific skills.
Contact Information for U.S. Welding Employers
For military jobs, you can directly reach out to the respective branches of the military or check USAJOBS for open positions:
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U.S. Navy: +1 800-872-6289 (Recruitment)
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U.S. Army: +1 888-550-ARMY (Recruitment)
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U.S. Air Force: +1 800-423-USAF (Recruitment)
For civilian welding jobs, you can contact companies such as:
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Bechtel Corporation: A leading engineering and construction company often looking for skilled welders.
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Boilermakers Union: Provides a wide range of job opportunities for welders in the U.S.
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Fluor Corporation: A global construction company that frequently hires welders.
Final Thoughts on Welding Careers in the USA for Foreigners (2025)
Welding offers a rewarding career in the U.S., especially in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and military defense. Whether you’re applying for civilian or military welding jobs, securing a position requires the right certifications, experience, and a valid work visa.
By following the steps outlined in this guide — obtaining your certification, applying through reliable job portals, and preparing for interviews — you can position yourself for success in landing a welding job in the U.S. in 2025.
Good luck in your job search, and remember that patience and persistence are key when applying for jobs in a competitive field like welding.
