Fitter - 1st shift

About the role

MICA Steelworks builds steel structures that keep the grid running, including tapered tubular transmission poles, substation A‑frames, high‑mast and highway sign structures fabricated in North Texas and shipped nationwide. Fitters are the craftsmen who lay out, position, and fit the steel that welders finish, with the quality of the fit‑up determining whether every weld passes ultrasonic (UT) inspection. No prior pole experience is required; a Fitter Trainee pathway and dedicated trainer will teach tapered tubular pole fit‑up from the ground up, with a clear classification ladder that provides raises at each certified level.

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Production Supervisor, the Fitter lays out, fabricates, fits, and joins metal and other weldable materials for tapered tubular steel structures. Fitters assemble subunits or units of material that welders then weld into position, ensuring every product meets job specifications and is suitable for UT‑passable welds. Work is performed directly from blueprints on transmission power poles, substation A‑frames, high‑mast poles, highway sign poles, and other tubular structures.

Responsibilities

• Perform fitting, joining, fabricating, and repairing of metal and other weldable material to blueprint specifications, producing fit‑ups consistent with UT‑passable welds.
• Set up work using jigs/fixtures or hand layouts to fabricate parts and/or rework finished products.
• Locate long seams and number pole shafts correctly; check twist and camber against acceptance criteria before continuing layout.
• Trim pole shafts square, find true centers, and pop chalk lines for true centers.
• Lay out and fit base plates, flange plates, vangs, brackets, through plates, ground sleeves, and other attached parts.
• Fabricate multi‑component parts and verify conformance using tape measure, squares, levels, and templates.
• Operate overhead and jib cranes, hoists, slings, grinders, cutting torches, and hand/power tools safely.
• Maintain equipment functionality; notify management/maintenance of needed repairs.
• Cross‑train and perform work of other job tasks in addition to the primary assigned position.
• Manage time and work efficiently to production standards; maintain housekeeping (5S) in the work area.
• Perform other tasks as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to read a tape measure to 1/16″ and perform shop math (fractions, decimals, basic geometry).
• Ability to pass the MICA NewHire Fitter Assessment (tape measure & shop math, blueprint & weld symbols, practical fit‑up).
• Ability to work 1st or 2nd shift and overtime as needed; reliable attendance.
• Ability to work in a shop environment with seasonal temperature extremes.
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work in a team environment.
• Successfully pass background check (including criminal history), drug screen, physical, audiogram, and vision test.

Additional Qualifications by Level

• C Fitter (direct hire): 1+ year of fitting/fabrication experience in structural steel, tubular products, shipfitting, pipe fitting, or comparable metal trade; blueprint and weld‑symbol literacy; overhead/jib crane experience (or certify within 30 days).
• B Fitter (direct hire): 3+ years of fitting experience with demonstrated multiproduct capability; passes the B‑level practical at hire.
• A Fitter (direct hire): 5+ years of fitting experience; tapered tubular pole experience strongly preferred; passes the A‑level practical at hire.
• Preferred at any level: tapered tubular pole, transmission/substation structure, or heavy structural fabrication experience; knowledge of welding equipment (torches, torch tips); forklift experience; bilingual English/Spanish.

Performance Expectations

• Certification status maintained for level; first‑pass fit‑up quality ≥ 95% (QC‑verified).
• Production/takt standards met as determined by the Production Supervisor.
• Follow all MICA Steelworks safety programs and policies; zero preventable safety incidents.
• Practice good housekeeping (keep area clean/organized).
• Demonstrate teamwork and willingness to cross‑train.

Schedule

1st shift: Monday – Friday, 5:00 AM – 3:30 PM, with Saturday as needed. Expected hours: 40‑55 hours per week; overtime paid per policy.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life insurance
• 401(k) with match
• PTO
• Paid holidays

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Full‑time shop exposure with extreme temperatures (seasonal). No travel requirements, though occasional travel between company plants may be offered. Work involves standing for 8‑10 hours per day, up to 6 days a week. Must have good vision, hearing, smell, and balance. Frequently lift and/or move up to 40 lb; occasionally up to 50 lb. Regularly stand, bend, stoop, squat, or kneel; climb stairs and ladders. Wear OSHA‑required PPE at all times, including an OSHA‑approved welding hood when welding.

Continuing Education

Employees are expected to participate in continuing education as requested or required by their immediate supervisor and must attend mandatory education programs. All new hires receive New Hire Orientation (NEO) covering human resources information and safety; the safety component is an annual pass/fail requirement.