Welder / Forklift Operator / Yard Helper Jacksonville
Position Summary
We are seeking a dependable, safety-minded experienced Welder, that is willing to be trained and certified as a Forklift Operator and perform general Fence Yard work to support daily operations for Smith Fence Company. This position is responsible for welding and fabricating fence components, safely operating a forklift, organizing and maintaining the yard, and assisting with loading, unloading, and preparing materials for fence installation and production.
The ideal candidate is a hardworking team player who can work independently, follow instructions, maintain a clean and organized work area, and safely handle materials and equipment.
Essential Responsibilities
Welding & Fabrication
- Perform welding and basic metal fabrication for fence components and related materials.
- Read and follow measurements, drawings, or work instructions as needed.
- Cut, grind, drill, and prepare metal for welding and fabrication.
- Inspect completed welds and fabricated materials for quality and accuracy.
- Maintain welding equipment, tools, and work areas.
- Follow all required welding and workplace safety procedures.
Forklift Operation
- Safely operate a forklift to load, unload, move, and stage fencing materials.
- Handle posts, panels, gates, pipe, hardware, and other materials.
- Load and unload trucks while protecting materials from damage.
- Maintain awareness of employees, vehicles, and obstacles while operating equipment.
- Complete routine equipment inspections and report maintenance or safety concerns.
- Operate equipment only when properly trained and authorized.
Yard Helper Duties
- Keep the fence yard clean, organized, and free of unnecessary hazards.
- Sort and organize fencing materials, tools, and supplies.
- Assist with receiving and staging incoming materials.
- Help prepare orders and materials for installation crews.
- Load trucks and trailers accurately and safely.
- Assist coworkers with general yard, shop, and material-handling duties.
- Properly dispose of scrap and maintain organized work areas.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
Qualifications
- Previous welding experience preferred.
- Experience operating a forklift preferred however Smith Fence Co will train and certify the ideal candidate.
- Fence, construction, fabrication, or warehouse experience is a plus.
- Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic measurements.
- Ability to safely lift and move heavy materials.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
- Ability to follow safety procedures and work effectively as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and work for extended periods.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy materials with appropriate assistance.
- Ability to work around welding equipment, metal materials, forklifts, trucks, and other shop/yard equipment.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Work Environment
This position works primarily in a fence company yard and fabrication/shop environment, with regular exposure to outdoor conditions, metal materials, welding operations, forklifts, trucks, and other equipment.
Safety Expectations
Safety is a top priority. Employees are expected to follow company safety policies, use required PPE, operate equipment responsibly, maintain awareness of their surroundings, and immediately report unsafe conditions, accidents, equipment problems, or injuries to management.
Compensation & Schedule
Pay Range: $21 - $25 per hour, depending on welding experience, forklift experience and qualifications.
Schedule: Monday to Friday Hours: 6am - 2:30pm
Employment Type: Full Time with occasional availability to work Overtime as needed.
Pre Employment Requirements
· Must have a valid driver's license with a good driving record
· Must be able to pass a background check
· Must be able to pass a drug test
Equal Opportunity
We are committed to providing a professional workplace where employees are treated fairly and respectfully. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, job performance, business needs, and other lawful considerations.
Pay: $21.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person