At a Glance
- Tasks: Perform FCAW welding on structural steel for shipbuilding projects.
- Company: Join Navantia UK, a leader in shipbuilding with exciting opportunities.
- Benefits: Earn £28.02 per hour plus overtime and weekly travel allowances.
- Other info: Potential for ongoing work in a major shipbuilding programme lasting 68 years.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with a long-term project in a dynamic shipyard environment.
- Qualifications: Must have FCAW welding experience; shipbuilding background is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 28.02 - 28.02 £ per hour.
If you think you are the right match for the following opportunity, apply after reading the complete description.
Location: Belfast
Start: Around 21 September 2026
Initial Project: Approximately 34 months
Gross Rate: £28.02 per hour PAYE (incl. of holiday)
Gross Overtime Rate: £42.03 per hour PAYE (incl. of holiday)
Travel / Accommodation / Subsistence: £406.40 per week
Potential weekly value: £1,947.50 - £2,577.95 depending on hours worked
We are recruiting experienced FCAW / Flux Core Welders for a major shipbuilding requirement with Navantia UK in Belfast. This forms part of a potentially significant welding requirement within the Belfast shipyard. The initial project is expected to run for approximately 34 months, potentially taking workers through towards January, although the final programme and durations are still being confirmed. Beyond this initial requirement, Navantia are moving into a major shipbuilding programme in Belfast which is expected to run for approximately 68 years.
For welders who perform well during the initial project, there is therefore the potential to move directly onto the longer-term programme as the workforce continues to increase. This makes the role particularly attractive for experienced FCAW welders looking for an immediate project with the potential to develop into sustained long-term work.
The Work
The requirement is specifically for welders with genuine FCAW / Flux Cored Arc Welding experience. Typical duties are expected to include:
- FCAW structural welding
- Multi-run welds on structural steel
- Working in vertical and overhead positions
- Welding structural frames, units and fabricated assemblies
- Working from engineering drawings, welding symbols and WPS
- Preparation and cleaning of weld areas
- Completing welds to the required quality standards
- Working alongside Platers, Fabricators and other shipbuilding trades
Experience using MMA, MAG or MIG alongside FCAW would be beneficial, but candidates must have demonstrable Flux Core welding experience. Previous shipbuilding, ship repair, marine or heavy fabrication experience would be particularly relevant.
FCAW / Flux Core Welder Belfast employer: MDE Consultants
Navantia UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Belfast that fosters collaboration and innovation within the shipbuilding industry. With competitive pay rates and comprehensive benefits, including travel and accommodation allowances, employees can expect not only financial rewards but also opportunities for professional growth as they contribute to long-term projects that shape the future of maritime engineering. The company values its workforce, providing a supportive culture that encourages skill development and career advancement over an extensive 68-year programme.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land FCAW / Flux Core Welder Belfast
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace FCAW / Flux Core Welder Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch MDE Consultants's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at MDE Consultants. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at MDE Consultants
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at MDE Consultants.
