Welder Lead

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced welding on heavy plate steel, structural components, and custom fabrication projects.
• Lead day-to-day welding operations within a fabrication shop, assigning tasks and ensuring workflow efficiency.
• Interpret complex blueprints, fabrication drawings, weld symbols, and bills of materials (BOMs).
• Cook up closely with fitters, fabricators, and machine operators to ensure proper assembly and welding sequence.
• Inspect welds and assemblies for dimensional accuracy, penetration, and compliance.
• Ensure proper joint preparation, fit-up, and alignment prior to welding.
• Monitor production timelines and adjust manpower or priorities to meet delivery schedules.
• Train and mentor welders on techniques, safety practices, and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot fabrication and welding challenges, including distortion, material issues, and equipment malfunctions.
• Enforce strict adherence to shop safety protocols, including PPE, ventilation, and confined space procedures.
• Oversee maintenance and setup of welding machines, torches, fixtures, and positioners.
• Support continuous improvement efforts such as reducing rework, improving weld efficiency, and lean fabrication practices.
• Communicate effectively with shop supervisors, engineering, and quality control teams.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or GED.
• Welding certification or trade school training preferred.
• 5 years of heavy welding experience in a metal fabrication or structural steel environment.
• 2 years of leadership or lead welder experience strongly preferred.
• A strong understanding of fabrication processes including cutting, forming, fitting, and assembly.
• The ability to read and interpret detailed shop drawings and blueprints.