Blacksmith - Welder in Charge - Maple Grove, MN

Position Summary

The Blacksmith–Welder in Charge is a senior‑level skilled employee at Xcel Energy's Maple Grove Service Center in Maple Grove, MN. This role performs complex welding, fabrication, and repair work on a wide range of utility equipment and components. In addition to journeyman‑level tasks, the applicant leads work activities, providing direction, coordination, and oversight of assigned employees for both on‑site and off‑site assignments.

• Perform advanced welding, cutting, heating, and metal fabrication using arc, MIG, TIG, oxy‑fuel, and other methods.
• Repair, rebuild, and fabricate components used in electric utility systems, including structural and specialty equipment.
• Operate shop equipment such as presses, shears, brakes, and fabrication tools.
• Direct and coordinate the work of assigned employees on specific jobs or projects.
• Serve as the designated in‑charge employee on off‑site assignments or when multiple employees are assigned to a job.
• Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with established procedures and quality expectations.
• Communicate job expectations, work sequencing, and safety requirements to crew members.
• Plan and organize work activities within assigned scope.
• Interpret blueprints, schematics, and specifications.
• Follow all company safety rules, OSHA requirements, and applicable work procedures.

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of a recognized apprenticeship or equivalent experience as a Blacksmith/Welder.
• Demonstrated journeyman‑level proficiency in welding, fabrication, and metal repair.
• Must hold current GTAW, SMAW, GMAW/FCAW, and Torch Brazing certifications.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Must meet driver qualification requirements under FMCSR Parts 382 and 391 and hold or obtain a valid Class A CDL with a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate within six months of hire.
• This position is subject to DOT random drug and alcohol testing.
• Willingness to travel and work away from home as business needs require.
• Willingness to respond to callouts and work overtime as needed.
• Experience with crane operation and/or rigging.

Starting base pay: $61.76 per hour.

• Medical/Pharmacy Plan
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• Dependent Care Reimbursement Account
• Health Care Reimbursement Account
• Health Savings Account (if enrolled in eligible health plan)
• Limited‑Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA)
• Short‑term disability (STD)
• Long‑term disability (LTD)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Transit programs
• Employee recognition program
• Pension
• 401(k) plan
• Vacation
• Holidays
• Additional days off
• Sick Time
• Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO)

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply can contact  This contact is for accommodations only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.