Welder-Fitter

JOB PURPOSE:  

The Welder-Fitter is responsible for laying out, fitting, and fabricating metal components to assemble structural forms, such as machinery frames, using advanced welding techniques and knowledge of metallurgy and engineering requirements. This role includes analyzing engineering drawings and specifications to plan welding operations, especially in situations where procedural information is unavailable. 

Job Description:

Welding and Fabrication 

• Lay out, position, and secure parts and assemblies according to specifications using tools like straightedge, combination square, calipers, and rulers. 
• Perform tack-welding or welding of components and assemblies using various welding equipment (electric, gas, arc, etc.). 
• Weld components in different positions (flat, vertical, overhead) as required and materials based on job requirements, ensuring optimal strength and durability of finished products. 
• Heat, form, and dress metal parts using hand tools, torches, or arc welding equipment. 
• Support maintenance activities by fabricating brackets, supports, guards, and custom parts required for equipment repairs and modifications. 

Inspection and Quality Control

• Observe tests on welded surfaces (hydrostatic, x-ray, dimension tolerance) to ensure quality and conformance to specifications. 
• Inspect grooves, angles, or gap allowances using precision instruments such as micrometers and calipers. 
• Analyze engineering drawings and specifications to plan layout, assembly, and welding operations. 
• Report abnormalities observed during operations to the Production Maintenance Supervisor. 
• Maintain detailed records of inspections, welding parameters, and test results to support traceability and quality assurance audits. 
• Assist in identifying wear and tear or structural damage during inspections to proactively support equipment maintenance. 

Equipment Installation and Repair 

• Install or repair equipment, including lead pipes, valves, floors, and tank linings.
• Conduct condition monitoring on all equipment and ensure LOTO (Lockout/Tagout) procedures are followed when equipment maintenance is required. 
• Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams to plan and execute complex installations or modifications to existing systems. 
• Provide welding and fitting expertise during emergency maintenance and unplanned shutdowns to minimize downtime. 

Process Improvement and Cost Efficiency 

• Focus on continuous improvement in production processes to lower costs, improve lead times, and enhance overall efficiency. 
• Develop templates and other work aids to assist in the alignment and holding of parts during welding. 
• Identify opportunities to reduce material waste and improve resource utilization during fabrication and assembly processes. 
• Work closely with the maintenance team to improve repair methods, reduce repetitive failures, and enhance equipment reliability.

Ad hoc

• Perform other tasks that may be assigned either individually or as part of a team.    
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and training sessions to promote a safe and efficient work environment.  
• Provide hands-on support during major maintenance activities, shutdowns, and upgrades as required. 

Job Requirements:

Education:  High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a relevant apprenticeship program is required. 

Work Experience: Proven experience as a welder with at least 5 years of working experience, preferably in pet food or food machine fabrication and installation. 

Training/License/Certifications:  Welding certification (MIG/TIG/Arc), Forklift license and confined space or working at heights certification (desirable), Health and Safety training (advantageous). Preferably with MEWP and Confined space training certification