Welder

About the Role

As a Welder for Keel, you will utilize the four main welding processes—GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, and SMAW—along with oxy-fuel cutting, carbon arc cutting, and plasma arc cutting to manufacture components from blueprints and Welding Procedure Specifications. Welders are categorized into three levels:

• Level I: Entry-level welders in training under direct supervision.
• Level II: Intermediate welders with advanced skills and responsibilities.
• Level III: Expert welders with specialized skills and leadership responsibilities.

All levels receive on-the-job training as needed, determined by a weld test and on-site interview.

Responsibilities

Level I

• Demonstrate a basic understanding of the four main welding processes and cutting processes.
• Read and interpret weld symbols, positions, and blueprints.
• Use hand tools such as grinders, tape measures, chipping hammers, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Identify differences between commonly used materials (e.g., carbon steel, aluminum, stainless steel).
• Maintain welding supplies, equipment, and a clean work environment.
• Set welding machine parameters with guidance from a supervisor and understand Welding Procedure Specifications.

Level II

Same responsibilities as Level I, plus:

• Understand AWS requirements and Welding Procedure Specifications.
• Proficiently interpret weld symbols and use weld gauges.
• Demonstrate advanced blueprint reading skills and locate information efficiently.
• Exhibit advanced skills in at least one welding process and cutting techniques.
• Cut straight lines, shapes, and bevels using manual and automatic equipment on various materials with minimal supervision.

Level III

Same responsibilities as Level II, plus:

• Display expert skills in one welding process and cutting techniques.
• Advanced knowledge of blueprint reading, including weld symbols and callouts.
• Efficient use of measuring equipment and ability to convert between fractions/decimals and metric/standard units.
• Understand metallurgical effects of welding, such as distortion and contamination.
• Troubleshoot and correct welding equipment issues.
• Maintain a low level of rework.
• Assist and train Level I and II welders.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Technical training or equivalent experience:
  • Level I: Less than 1 year up to 2 years.
  • Level II: 2+ years.
  • Level III: 5+ years.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions from supervisors.
• Willingness to learn, work in a team, and accept constructive criticism to meet quality objectives.
• Pass criminal background check and drug screening.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly stand, walk, sit, reach/pull/push with hands and arms, climb, balance, stoop, or kneel.
• Lift or carry up to 50 lbs; mechanical assistance required for weights exceeding 50 lbs.

Schedule

• Day Shift: Monday - Friday, 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
• Night Shift: Monday - Thursday, 5:00 PM - 5:30 AM (shift differential applies).

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Competitive pay with shift differentials and overtime potential.
• 401(k) match.
• HSA/FSA options.
• Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).
• Internal referral bonus opportunities.
• Paid on-the-job training and certification sponsorship.
• Commitment to individual career growth.
• Company-sponsored fun activities and events.