HEAVY METAL FABRICATOR

Description

Position Summary: The Heavy Metal Fabricator lays out, cuts, forms, fits, assembles, and repairs heavy-gauge metal components and structural fabrications in accordance with drawings, specifications, quality standards, and production schedules. This role uses industrial fabrication equipment, welding processes, precision measuring tools, and material-handling systems to produce safe, accurate, and durable work.

Responsibilities:

Read and interpret blueprints, shop drawings, weld symbols, bills of material, and written work instructions.

Lay out work using tape measures, squares, levels, templates, calipers, and other precision measuring tools.

Cut, bend, roll, drill, punch, bevel, grind, and form plate, structural shapes, and other heavy-gauge materials.

Fit and assemble components using jigs, fixtures, clamps, tack welds, and approved joining methods.

Operate fabrication equipment such as saws, shears, press brakes, plate rolls, ironworkers, drills, grinders, and thermal cutting systems.

Perform welding as assigned using approved processes and procedures; inspect weld preparation and completed work for visible defects.

Verify dimensions, tolerances, alignment, squareness, and finish throughout fabrication.

Use overhead cranes, hoists, forklifts, and rigging equipment when trained and authorized.

Identify material, maintain traceability when required, and minimize scrap and rework.

Complete production, inspection, and material-use records accurately.

Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe operating conditions.

Communicate production issues, drawing discrepancies, equipment problems, and safety concerns promptly.

Support continuous improvement, housekeeping, and preventive-maintenance activities.

Follow all company safety rules, quality procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Qualifications:

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Minimum of five years of heavy fabrication, structural steel, plate fabrication, welding, or closely related industrial experience.

Ability to interpret fabrication drawings, dimensions, tolerances, and weld symbols.

Proficiency with common fabrication tools, equipment, and measuring instruments.

Working knowledge of shop mathematics, including fractions, decimals, angles, and basic geometry.

Ability to produce accurate work independently and as part of a team.

Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and communicate clearly.

Reliable attendance and willingness to work scheduled shifts and overtime as business needs require.

Preferred Qualifications

Technical certificate or apprenticeship in welding, metal fabrication, or a related trade.

Current welding certifications applicable to the employer’s processes and products.

Training in forklift operation, overhead crane use, rigging, and lockout/tagout.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position regularly requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, climbing, gripping, and working in varied positions for extended periods.

The employee must be able to move materials and tools within established company lifting limits, with mechanical assistance or team lifting used as required.

Work may involve heat, noise, sparks, fumes, vibration, sharp edges, moving equipment, elevated work, and indoor or outdoor conditions.

Required personal protective equipment may include safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, protective footwear, welding protection, and respiratory protection where applicable.