Heavy Metal Fabricator

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.