Welder Lead - MFG

The Weld Department Lead is responsible for coordinating daily welding operations, ensuring product quality, promoting safety, and supporting team development. This role serves as the primary point of contact between welders and the weld shop supervisor, ensuring smooth workflow and on-time completion of production schedules in compliance with ASME Section IX welding code requirements.

1. Lead daily work activities and assign welders to tasks according to the production schedule.
2. Ensure welders meet all ASME Section IX code and internal quality expectations for each weld.
3. Monitor progress of jobs, verify conformance of workpieces to specifications, and ensure all documentation and weld traceability requirements are completed.
4. Train, guide, and mentor welders and fabricators in welding processes, equipment operation, and company standards.
5. Perform welding and fabrication as needed, including layout, fit-up, and welds using various processes (SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, Sub-Arc).
6. Conduct safety audits, enforce PPE requirements, and work with supervisors to address safety or equipment concerns.
7. Plan and organize workflow for maximum efficiency and minimal downtime.
8. Communicate clearly with the supervisor and other departments regarding production updates, quality concerns, and maintenance needs.
9. Ensure housekeeping and 6S standards are maintained throughout the weld department.
10. Support scheduling, shift changeovers, and equipment inspections.
11. Set hourly and daily performance goals for the team and ensure accountability for meeting targets.
12. Assist in troubleshooting weld issues and implementing process improvements.
13. Report equipment maintenance needs using the company’s maintenance management system.
14. Provide input on employee performance and training needs to the Weld Shop Supervisor.
15. Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Directly lead welders and assist in coordinating manpower for all weld area operations.
2. Provide on-the-job training and ensure all employees follow safe work practices and company procedures.
3. Carry out daily operations in production when the supervisor is unavailable.
4. Participate in employee coaching, skill development, and continuous improvement activities.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

1. High school diploma or equivalent required.
2. Minimum 5 years of industrial welding or fabrication experience preferred.
3. Proven leadership or lead experience in a production or welding environment.
4. Proficient in reading blueprints, weld symbols, and tape measure.
5. Must be able to pass an open-root stainless plate test with backing strip (1G position).
6. Experience with MIG, TIG, stick, and sub-arc welding processes preferred.
7. Knowledge of and ability to interpret ASME Section IX welding codes and procedures required.
8. Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, production tracking software).
9. Strong communication, organization, and time management skills.
10. Manual dexterity required for operating machinery and welding equipment.
11. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
12. Forklift certification preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Working conditions are typical for a manufacturing and welding environment. Work involves frequent lifting of materials up to 50 pounds and exposure to heat, sparks, and noise. Operation of machinery and tools requires strict adherence to safety procedures.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) REQUIRED

• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection
• Steel-toed boots
• Gloves
• Welding helmet or face shield when welding or grinding
• Additional PPE as required by specific tasks