MIG Welder

Position Summary

The MIG (Metal Inert Gas) Welder supports a job shop manufacturing environment focused on high mix, low volume production and pilot builds. This role requires a highly skilled, adaptable welder capable of producing consistent, high-quality welds across a wide variety of custom parts, materials, and configurations using MIG welding techniques.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Perform high-quality MIG welding on custom and low-volume components, frequently switching between part types, materials, and weld configurations.
• Perform MIG welding on sheet metal components (non-pipe welding), adapting efficiently to changing work priorities and build requirements.
• Weld thin-gauge stainless steel and aluminum sheet metal (20 gauge and thinner) as well as specialty alloys, using the correct techniques, settings, and parameters for each material.
• Read and interpret detailed blueprints, weld symbols, engineering drawings, and work instructions; collaborate with engineering on prototype and first-article builds.
• Independently set up, adjust, and operate MIG welding equipment (machines, torches, foot pedals, gas systems) for short-run and custom jobs.
• Inspect welds for appearance, dimensional accuracy, and defects such as porosity, cracks, or lack of fusion. Support first-article inspections and continuous quality improvements.
• Troubleshoot welding challenges related to fit-up, material variation, or print ambiguity. Communicate issues and improvement opportunities to the team lead, engineers, or supervisors.
• Follow all OSHA and company safety procedures, including proper PPE use, ventilation, and safe handling of equipment and materials.
• Support process improvements, fixture development, and best practices. Stay current on MIG welding methods, tools, and industry standards relevant to prototype and short-run manufacturing.

Required Skills And Abilities

• Advanced MIG welding skills for precision and thin-gauge applications.
• Strong ability to work in a fast-changing, high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, weld symbols, and work instructions.
• Solid understanding of weld quality standards and inspection requirements.
• Effective troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship.
• Able to manage multiple custom jobs and shift priorities.
• Clear communication and teamwork skills.
• Able to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to follow safety procedures, work instructions, and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.

Education And Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum 2 years of MIG welding experience required.
• 5+ years of welding and fabrication experience preferred.
• Experience in job shop, prototype, or pilot production manufacturing strongly preferred.
• MIG welding certification preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move about the shop floor for extended periods during a work shift.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and work in confined or awkward positions as required by custom weld assemblies.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and tools weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements, including gripping, reaching, and precise manual positioning.
• Ability to use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as welding helmets, gloves, face shields, respirators, and protective clothing.
• Ability to work safely around welding arcs, sparks, heat, noise, and industrial equipment.
• Visual acuity sufficient to inspect weld quality and read drawings, gauges, and measuring tools (with or without corrective lenses).