Smith Challenger Manufacturing & Services, Inc. is a family owned and operated manufacturer specializing in industrial sweeper attachments for the road construction and infrastructure industries. We are seeking a candidate interested in stable, long-term employment with growth opportunities. We encourage you to apply if you are committed to building a future with our team.
Position Summary
The Welder II is a skilled MIG welding position responsible for fabricating, assembling, and repairing the full range of metal components used in industrial sweeper attachments, including more complex joints, thicker-gauge materials, and structurally critical assemblies. This role requires the ability to read and interpret blueprints, properly set up MIG welding equipment, and produce consistent, high-quality welds that meet company and production standards without routine oversight. The Welder II works independently, signs off on the quality of their own completed welds, and may informally guide or mentor Welder I team members.
Scope & Quality Ownership
- Handles the full range of weld joints and assemblies, including complex, structurally critical, or tighter-tolerance work that may be routed away from Welder I.
- Works on the full range of material thickness required by production, including heavier-gauge structural steel.
- Inspects and signs off on the quality of own completed welds; final accountability for weld integrity rests with the Welder II rather than a checkpoint reviewer.
- Serves as a point of reference for Welder I team members and may informally train or guide newer welders on technique and standards.
- Expected to identify and resolve routine setup or quality issues independently, escalating only non-routine problems.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and work orders to determine welding requirements.
- Set up, align, and secure metal components using fixtures, clamps, and templates.
- Perform MIG welding on the full range of carbon steel components, including complex and structurally critical joints, according to specifications.
- Adjust welding machines, wire feed, voltage, and gas settings to ensure proper welding quality.
- Weld structural components, seams, joints, and assemblies to required standards.
- Grind, chip, or smooth welds to achieve a clean and finished appearance when required.
- Inspect and sign off on completed welds for accuracy, strength, and quality, with final accountability for the result.
- Identify and report defects, inconsistencies, or material issues, resolving routine issues independently.
- Guide or informally mentor Welder I team members on technique, setup, and quality standards.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
- Follow all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
- Assist with fabrication or assembly tasks as needed to support production.
Qualifications
- Proficiency in MIG welding required, including complex joints and structural components.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and fabrication drawings independently.
- Demonstrated experience welding structural and fabricated steel components without routine supervision.
- Skilled in the use of hand tools and power tools such as grinders, saws, and welding equipment.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to independently judge and certify weld quality.
- Ability to work independently, manage own workload, and provide informal guidance to less experienced welders.
Education
- High School diploma or G.E.D. required.
- Preferred: 3-4 years of related experience in MIG welding.
- Welding certification preferred but not required.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift a minimum of 60 lbs.
- Ability to stand for 8+ hours per day.
- Frequent bending, moving, lifting.
- Working in a warehouse environment.
Other Requirements
- Must have a valid driver's license.
- Must maintain a good attendance record.
- Ability to read and write in English.
Pay: $20.00 - $23.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
