Welder / Fabricator

JOB SUMMARY 

This position requires in-depth, hands on, working knowledge of structural steel welding, and must be proficient in the use of the tools used in the fabrication process, including, but not limited to, welders, grinders, bevellers, air arc, torches, measuring tapes, Steel Square, protractors, etc.  Fabricate/weld and assemble metal products, such as agricultural equipment, trailers, pallet tops, various agricultural machinery and tools. Design and build from scratch often without blueprints.  Gather input from end users to guide the design of any particular job.  Materials used most often include Steel, Stainless Steel, and Aluminum.  Troubleshoot design flaws and redesign for superior performance.  Create jigs and other tools to increase efficiency.  Work with a team of 1 additional welder and 4 mechanics on a daily basis.  Develops layout and plans sequence of operations, applying knowledge of trigonometry, stock allowances for thickness, machine and welding shrinkage, and physical properties of metal.  Adhere to all safety procedures and that equipment utilized is in safe working conditions.  Keep a clean and well organized work space and shop. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES 

• Design and build from scratch often without blueprints...the majority of input will come from end users or existing equipment designs.
• Repair, maintain, fabricate or customize agricultural machinery and equipment ensuring the availability, functioning and safety of required items.
• Machining fabrication materials and components
• Fitting, setting and installing equipment
• Cutting and welding with a variety of processes
• Metal forming, bending, and finishing
• Repair, design, layout and estimation
• Ability to forecast materials needed in advance for ordering and budgeting reasons on a regular basis.
• Weld components in flat, vertical, or overhead positions.
• Detects faulty operation of equipment or defective materials and notifies supervisors.
• Clamp, hold, tack-weld, heat-bend, grind or bolts component parts to obtain required configurations and positions for welding.
• Hammers, chips, and grinds workpiece to cut, bend, and straighten metal. Preheat work pieces using a hand torch. Positions, aligns, fits, and welds together parts
• Monitor the fitting, burning, and welding processes to avoid overheating of parts of warping, shrinking, distortion, or expansion of materials.
• Wear all required PPE and use safe work habits while performing job function.
• Examine work pieces for defects and measures work pieces with straightedges or templates to ensure conformance with specifications.
• Uses hand and power tools to grind, bevel, fit metals together and remove slag.
• Ability to operate industrial equipment and lift objects/materials not to exceed 50 lbs. If greater than 50 lbs, assistance is required from a co-worker.  Utilize lifting mechanisms when applicable.              
• All other duties as needed for the Fleet department.  
• Ability to enter work orders into a Fleet software

QUALIFICATIONS 

• 5 years welding/fabrication experience.
• Working knowledge of industrial/welding equipment and following safety procedures.
• Organizational skills and quality assurance are a must.
• Ability to plan and organize work according to Fleet Manager orders.  Able to prioritize and work within deadlines.
• Ability to read and follow directions.
• Good attitude and communication skills when working with co-workers and other departments.
• Welding certifications a plus.  
• Excellent working knowledge of Mig Welder, Tig Welder, Stick Welder, as well as plasma cutter, workhorse, pipe bender, band saw, and torch.

HOURS OF WORK 

Regular scheduled workweek is from 40 to 45 hours per week. May have peak periods during summer periods. Start and end times vary depending on organizational needs. Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regular strenuous lifting, bending and stretching.
• Lift and transfer objects up to and over 50 lbs regularly.
• Able to sit, stand, bend and walk for long periods of time during the day and night.
• Able to drive and operate farm vehicles such as tractors, loaders, skid steers, and other heavy equipment.
• Exposure to outside climate, including extreme heat and cold conditions.
• Manual dexterity and fine motor skills to effectively use small hand tools, power tools, & equipment.

NOTICE