Vital Link, Inc. (VLI) is seeking experienced Welders / Iron Workers to support the construction, installation, and maintenance of USAF Noise Suppressors, Engine Test Cells, and Hush Houses. This is a 100% travel-based position supporting projects on military installations throughout the United States and, potentially, overseas.
This role offers the opportunity to work on specialized aerospace and defense infrastructure projects while utilizing and expanding your welding, fabrication, and structural steel expertise in a challenging and rewarding field environment.
Job Overview
The Welder / Iron Worker is responsible for welding, fabricating, assembling, erecting, and installing structural steel and metal systems used in military and industrial facilities. This position requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to safely perform construction activities in a fast-paced field environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Perform structural welding using MIG and Stick welding processes, primarily utilizing 7018 carbon steel electrodes, light gauge SS material. 3G is preferred
- Fabricate, assemble, and install structural steel components and metal systems.
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
- Perform layout, fit-up, alignment, and installation of structural steel assemblies.
- Execute rigging, hoisting, bolting, anchoring, and material placement activities.
- Operate hand tools, power tools, plasma cutters, oxy-fuel torches, grinders, and other fabrication equipment.
- Inspect completed welds and installations to ensure quality and compliance with project requirements.
- Assist with field modifications, repairs, and troubleshooting as required.
- Maintain a safe, organized, and productive work environment.
- Follow all company safety procedures, customer requirements, and project specifications.
- Work collaboratively with field crews to meet project schedules and performance objectives.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 2–5 years of welding, ironworking, structural steel, or related construction experience.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and technical specifications.
- Experience with structural steel fabrication and installation preferred.
- Knowledge of welding techniques, equipment, and safety practices.
- Experience with rigging, steel erection, and field construction activities preferred.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, climbing, working at heights, and working in varying environmental conditions.
- Reliable transportation with car Insurance
- Must be willing and able to travel full-time.
- Ability to obtain access to military installations as required.
Travel & Field Benefits
This position is designed for skilled trades professionals seeking travel opportunities, competitive compensation, and long-term career growth supporting aerospace and defense projects.
Travel Benefits
Eligible employees may receive:
- Daily per diem paid in accordance with current GSA rates while traveling.
- 75% of the applicable per diem rate on the first and last day of travel.
- 100% of the applicable per diem rate on all full travel days.
- Lodging reimbursement up to current GSA lodging rates.
- Mileage reimbursement between home and assigned work locations at the current federal mileage rate ($0.725 per mile for 2026).
- Travel hourly rate pay for qualifying travel time and distances associated with project assignments.
- Up to 4 hours of travel pay for travel up to 250 miles.
- Up to 8 hours of travel pay for travel up to 500 miles, per travel day.
Benefits & Compensation
Depending on project location and contract requirements, compensation may include DBA Prevailing Wage and Service Contract Act (SCA) related wage structures.
Eligible benefits may include:
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Hourly Fringe Wage Paid
- Short-Term Disability Insurance
- Long-Term Disability Insurance
Additional Opportunities
- Field sign-on bonus opportunities (when applicable)
- Employee referral incentive program
- Stable project workload supporting U.S. aerospace and defense initiatives
- Opportunities for advanced welding and structural steel career development
- Exposure to highly specialized military, industrial, and aerospace construction projects
- Long-term growth opportunities within field operations and skilled trades leadership
- Field employees may be granted scheduled home leave once annually, subject to project schedules and business requirements
Why Vital Link?
At Vital Link, you'll work alongside highly skilled field professionals supporting critical infrastructure that directly contributes to U.S. military readiness. Our projects provide unique opportunities to travel, develop specialized trade expertise, and build a rewarding career supporting aerospace, defense, and industrial construction programs nationwide.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled
Vital Link, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Equal Opportunity Employer/ Veterans/Disabled
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.
If you need a reasonable accommodation, please call 281-276-2643
