Insulator I

About the role

The Industrial Journeyman Insulator position will include several duties. Insulators will apply insulation to pipe, ducts, and equipment as required by specifications. They will also be required to paint equipment and structures for protection and cosmetic purposes, to maintain, mix, and have thorough knowledge of paint and other coating materials so that the equipment or structure is painted and protected as per contract or specifications.

Responsibilities

• Measure, cut, and fit insulation materials (such as fiberglass, mineral wool, calcium silicate, and foam) around complex industrial equipment, vessels, and 45°/90° pipe elbows.
• Fabricate and secure custom sheet metal covers, elbows, tees, and jacketing using brakes, shears, and rollers.
• Interpret technical specifications, isometric drawings, and construction blueprints to determine precise material requirements.
• Strip away damaged, wet, or old insulation (including coordinating safe removal of hazardous materials like asbestos when certified) during plant turnarounds or routine repairs.
• Apply vapor barriers, canvas strips, mastic cements, and tape to seal insulated surfaces against moisture and environmental damage.
• Follow strict OSHA guidelines, wear specialized personal protective equipment (PPE), and operate safely in confined spaces or high scaffolding.
• Paint equipment and structures for protection and cosmetic purposes; maintain, mix, and have thorough knowledge of paint and other coating materials to ensure equipment or structure is painted and protected per contract or specifications.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of hands‑on mechanical insulation experience in heavy industrial or manufacturing environments.
• Certifications: NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) or NIA (National Insulation Association) training/certifications preferred.
• Physical Requirements: High physical stamina; strength to lift up to 50 pounds; comfort working at heights, on ladders, JLG, operating forklift, or in cramped spaces; able to adhere to large amounts of standing, walking, bending, squatting, and lifting; use arms and hands to signal, grab, hold, turn, push, and pull objects, materials, controls, and tools; work at heights, climb ladders and stairways, work off platforms and man lifts; wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including hard hat, safety glasses/goggles, ear plugs/muffs, masks/respirators, safety vests, gloves, and leather work boots.
• Preferred Qualifications: Current Zachry or Zachry ROF'ed employee; NCCER certification for Industrial Journeyman Insulator; formal/technical education; experience working with scaffolding, insulation, and painting.