Job Description
The Department of the Navy is hiring a Welder Leader (WL 11) to serve at the Point Loma Complex in San Diego, California.
In this role, you will lead a team of welders, pass on instructions from supervisors, inspect work sites, and report progress.
You will work in a shipyard environment, potentially at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Trident Refit Facility Bangor, or Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard.
This position is full-time and requires a leader who can ensure quality and safety in welding operations. The role suits experienced welders ready to take on supervisory duties.
You will be part of a team maintaining and repairing Navy vessels, contributing to national defense. The job offers structured federal pay and benefits.
Salary & Compensation
Estimated market salary: $95,000 - $175,000 per year.
Qualification
This Welder Leader position at grade WL 11 requires demonstrated ability to lead or supervise, which is the screen-out element. Your qualifications are evaluated on quality of experience, not just length. You must show through experience and training that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Ability to lead or supervise (screen-out element; minimum 2 points required).
- Knowledge of welding techniques, equipment, and safety procedures.
- Skill in interpreting blueprints, sketches, and welding symbols.
- Ability to inspect work for quality and compliance with specifications.
- Experience in training or instructing lower-grade workers.
- Physical ability to wear protective gear and work in hazardous environments.
- Must be a US citizen.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug test (including marijuana).
- Must obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Role Responsibilities
Pass on instructions from welding supervisor to work group members.
- Check and report work progress, including written documentation and shift assist requests.
- Perform work site inspections to ensure safety and quality.
- Lead and supervise a team of welders in shipyard maintenance and repair tasks.
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations and use of personal protective equipment.
- Coordinate with other trades and departments to meet mission deadlines.
- May be required to work uncommon tours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
How to Apply
Go to USAJOBS.gov and with your USAJOBS/Login.gov account.
- Open the announcement for Welder Leader (Job ID: usajobs-847983700) and click Apply Online.
- Complete the federal application questionnaire and attach your resume (max 2 pages) and required documents.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on October 13, 2026.
Additional Information
This is a bargaining unit position.
- New employees must pass E-Verify employment verification.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- You may be required to travel CONUS and OCONUS, including remote sites.
- Overtime and night differential pay may be required.
- Drug testing (including marijuana) is required pre-employment and randomly thereafter.
- Resumes must be no more than 2 pages; illegible resumes will not be considered.
About Company
The Department of the Navy is a branch of the US Department of Defense responsible for naval operations and national security. It operates shipyards and maintenance facilities across the country, including the Point Loma Complex in San Diego. This Welder Leader position supports the Navy's mission by ensuring the readiness of its fleet through skilled metalwork and supervision. Department of the Navy
- Agency Wide is named as the hiring organisation for the WELDER LEADER post.