Job Overview
The Shop Welder/Fabricator is responsible for the fabrication, welding, and structural repair of equipment, attachments, frames, brackets, and custom components in support of our specialty demolition operations. This role requires a high level of proficiency across multiple welding processes and the ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings and blueprints. Experience in machining is a plus and will be considered favorably for candidates looking to expand their role within the shop.
Key Responsibilties
- Perform structural and precision welding using MIG , TIG, Stick , and flux-core processes on carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
- Fabricate custom steel components, brackets, frames, guards, and equipment attachments from raw material using shop drawings, sketches, or verbal instructions
- Lay out, cut, fit, and weld assemblies to dimensional and structural specifications
- Operate plasma cutting, oxy-acetylene cutting, and angle grinder equipment for material preparation and cutting
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, weld symbols, and fabrication specifications
- Perform weld inspection and quality checks including visual inspection and dimensional verification .
- Execute repair welds on cracked or damaged structural components, equipment frames, and attachments
- Select appropriate filler materials, shielding gases, and welding parameters for each application
- Maintain weld quality consistent with Structural Welding Code standards
Equipment Operation & Shop Work
- Operate ironworker, press brake, angle grinder, band saw, chop saw, and drill press
- Use measuring tools including tape measures, squares, calipers, and levels to ensure dimensional accuracy
- Set up and operate welding positioners, rotators, and fixturing equipment
- Assist with rigging and use of overhead crane or hoist for positioning heavy weldments
- Perform metal surface preparation including grinding, cleaning, and preheating as required
- Apply primer and paint or coordinate with finishing steps following weld completion
General Shop Duties
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in compliance with shop safety standards
- Perform routine maintenance on welding machines, torches, and shop equipment
- Maintain accurate records of materials used, job tracking, and time on projects
- Collaborate with shop supervisor, technicians, and project teams to meet fabrication deadlines
- Assist with receiving, staging, and organizing raw material stock and hardware inventory
Required Skills & Qualifications
Welding Processes
- Demonstrated proficiency in MIG welding on structural carbon steel — primary process used in shop
- Working knowledge of Stick welding for field repairs and heavier structural work
- TIG welding experience preferred, particularly for stainless steel and aluminum applications
- Flux-core experience a plus for high-deposition structural applications
- Ability to weld in all positions: flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead
Fabrication Knowledge
- Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings and engineering blueprints
- Understanding of metal properties, weld joint design, and fit-up tolerances
- Knowledge of material selection for structural, wear-resistant, and high-strength applications
- Proficiency in layout and measuring techniques
- Experience fabricating from raw stock including plate, tube, pipe, angle, channel, and flat bar
Cutting & Material Preparation
- Proficient with plasma cutting table or handheld plasma torch
- Experience with oxy-acetylene cutting and heating
- Ability to operate band saw, chop saw, and abrasive cutoff equipment
- Skill in grinding, beveling, and surface preparation for quality weld joints
Quality & Safety
- Knowledge of visual weld inspection criteria and basic non-destructive evaluation (NDE) awareness
- Familiarity with Structural Welding Code guidelines
- Strict adherence to shop safety procedures including PPE usage, fire prevention, and hot work protocols
- Understanding of lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures when working on powered equipment
- Ability to work safely around overhead cranes, forklifts, and shared shop spaces
General Qualifications
- Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on welding and fabrication experience in a production or job shop environment
- vocational/technical training or apprenticeship strongly preferred
- AWS Certified Welder (CW) or equivalent certification preferred but not required — practical test may be administered
- Ability to read a tape measure accurately
- Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in varied positions
- Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated with strong attention to detail
MACHINING EXPERIENCE IS A PLUS. Candidates with machining experience are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given favorable consideration. Relevant machining skills include:
- Operation of manual engine lathe for turning, facing, boring, and threading operations
- Experience with vertical or horizontal milling machines for slotting, profiling, and drilling operations
- Familiarity with manual or CNC machining centers and G-code programming basics
- Ability to use precision measuring instruments including micrometers, dial indicators, and bore gauges
- Understanding of speeds, feeds, and tooling selection for various metals including steel and aluminum
- Experience with drill press operations, tapping, reaming, and precision hole work
- Knowledge of machining tolerances and surface finish requirements
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
