Storage Tank Welders
Position Summary
The Storage Tank Welder is responsible for the fabrication, assembly, repair, and field erection of welded steel storage tanks in accordance with API 650, AWWA D-100, AWS, company quality standards, and project specifications. This position requires proficiency in welding carbon steel plate, structural steel, and tank components while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Welding & Fabrication
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Perform FCAW, SMAW, and GMAW welding on carbon steel storage tanks and structural components.
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Weld shell plates, roof plates, bottom plates, nozzles, manways, reinforcement pads, ladders, stairways, platforms, and structural attachments.
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Read and interpret fabrication drawings, welding symbols, blueprints, and shop sketches.
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Lay out, fit, tack, and weld components to required tolerances.
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Perform vertical, horizontal, overhead, and flat-position welding.
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Maintain weld quality in accordance with approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS).
Tank Construction
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Fabricate API 650 and AWWA D-100 storage tanks.
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Install shell courses, roof structures, and bottom plates.
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Weld roof framing, rafters, columns, and compression rings.
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Install nozzles, manways, roof vents, overflow assemblies, ladders, platforms, and appurtenances.
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Perform field welding during tank erection and repairs as required.
Quality Control
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Produce welds that meet project specifications and applicable code requirements.
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Conduct visual inspections of completed welds.
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Correct weld discontinuities as directed.
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Assist with non-destructive examination (NDE) activities, including radiographic (RT), magnetic particle (MT), ultrasonic (UT), and liquid penetrant (PT) testing.
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Maintain high workmanship standards and minimize rework.
Equipment Operation
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Operate welding machines and associated equipment safely.
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Use oxy-fuel cutting equipment, plasma cutters, grinders, and magnetic drills.
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Safely operate forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and overhead cranes when authorized.
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Perform routine maintenance and inspection of welding equipment.
Safety
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Follow all OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
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Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
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Participate in daily job safety meetings and hazard assessments.
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Maintain clean and organized work areas.
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Report unsafe conditions and incidents immediately.
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Follow confined space, hot work, and fall protection procedures.
Qualifications
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High school diploma or GED preferred.
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Minimum of 3 years of welding experience in heavy steel fabrication, storage tanks, pressure vessels, or structural steel.
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Experience with API 650 storage tank fabrication or field erection preferred.
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Ability to read blueprints and welding symbols.
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Ability to pass company welding qualification tests.
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Ability to pass pre-employment drug test.
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Valid driver's license preferred.
Preferred Certifications
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AWS Certified Welder
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API 650 welding experience
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OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety
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Forklift and aerial lift certifications (if applicable)
Required Skills
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Proficiency with FCAW, SMAW, and GMAW welding processes.
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Strong blueprint reading and layout skills.
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Ability to accurately fit and assemble steel components.
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Knowledge of welding distortion control and proper fit-up techniques.
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Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
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Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
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Ability to stand, kneel, bend, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
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Ability to climb ladders, scaffolding, and elevated work platforms.
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Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
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Ability to wear respirators, welding helmets, fall protection equipment, and other required PPE.
Work Environment
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Fabrication shop and outdoor construction sites.
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Exposure to welding fumes, grinding dust, noise, heat, and changing weather conditions.
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Frequent overtime, weekend work, and travel may be required to meet project schedules.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
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Weld quality and first-pass acceptance rate.
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Productivity and schedule adherence.
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Compliance with welding procedures and quality standards.
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Safety performance and attendance.
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Equipment cares and maintenance.
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Teamwork and communication.
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Minimal rework and repair rates.
Reporting Relationship
Reports To: Shop Foreman, Welding Supervisor, or Field Superintendent
Works Closely With: Fitters, Fabricators, Quality Control Inspectors, Project Managers, and Field Crews
Benefits
wages ($36 to $45 per hour)
Overtime (Often 50-60 hours/week during peak construction)
7-day perdiem and travel pay
Health, Dental, and Eye Insurance (after 60 days of employment)
401K Plan (after 1 year employment)
