Welder/fabricator/fitter

Experienced Fabricator/Welder (MIG & TIG)

Location: Grand Rapids, MI • Employment Type: Full-Time

Company Overview:
Join our dynamic metal fabrication team in Grand Rapids! We are a leading manufacturer of custom stainless steel products and are known for our quality workmanship. We are seeking an Experienced Fabricator/Welder who excels in MIG and TIG welding to help build high-quality equipment and components. If you have a passion for metalwork, at least five years of experience, and a drive for precision, we want to hear from you.

Job Summary:
In this role, you will use your welding and fabrication expertise to build and assemble metal parts (primarily stainless steel) according to engineering drawings and specifications. The ideal candidate is proficient in MIG and TIG welding , capable of using a variety of shop tools (including grinders and metal benders), and can work independently to produce accurate, quality weldments. This is a full-time, day-shift position with occasional overtime available. We offer a competitive hourly wage and a full benefits package to the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities:

• Welding & Fabrication: Perform MIG and TIG welding on stainless steel and other metals to fabricate assemblies and components according to project requirements and blueprints.
• Blueprint Reading: Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and work orders to determine material measurements and welding layout. Mark, cut, and fit metal pieces accordingly.
• Use of Tools: Operate and maintain various manual and powered tools such as grinders, drills, saws, and sanders to prepare and finish metal parts. Operate metal forming/bending equipment (press brake, pipe bender, rollers) to shape components as needed for each project.
• Assembly & Quality Control: Fit, clamp, and tack-weld parts in proper alignment; then complete welds to join parts permanently. Inspect completed welds and fabricated parts for defects or adherence to specifications. Perform grinding, polishing, or rework on welds to ensure high-quality finish and structural integrity.
• Maintenance & Safety: Maintain a clean and organized workspace , following all safety protocols. Conduct routine maintenance checks on welding equipment and tools. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times and promote a safe working environment.
• Teamwork: Coordinate with the fabrication team, including fitters, other welders, and supervisors, to meet production deadlines. Assist with training junior welders or helpers as needed, and communicate effectively to resolve fabrication challenges.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum 5 years of welding/fabrication experience in a manufacturing or metal fabrication setting. Proven proficiency in MIG (GMAW) and TIG (GTAW) welding is required – stainless steel experience is strongly preferred .
• Skills: Ability to read and interpret blueprints accurately and work from technical drawings/work orders. Strong layout and measurement skills (use of tape measures, calipers, etc.) to cut and fit materials precisely.
• Tools & Equipment: Hands-on experience with common metal fabrication tools and machinery. This includes using grinders, cutoff saws, drill presses, and operating metal benders or press brakes . Familiarity with CNC fabrication equipment or welding robots is a plus.
• Quality & Detail Orientation: Knowledge of weld symbols, techniques, and standards to ensure welds meet quality specifications (sound joints, proper bead appearance, etc.). Ability to inspect your own work for accuracy and completeness.
• Certification: High school diploma or GED required. Welding certifications (AWS or similar) are preferred and will be considered an advantage. Continuous training or coursework in metallurgy, blueprint reading, or welding technology is a plus.
• Physical Requirements: Must be able to safely lift and maneuver materials up to 50 lbs regularly. Ability to stand, bend, and work in varied positions throughout an 8+ hour shift. Comfortable using protective equipment (helmet, gloves, jackets, etc.) and working around welding fumes and shop noise (with proper safety measures).
• Work Ethic: Strong problem-solving skills and a team-player attitude . Reliable and punctual with a commitment to meeting project deadlines. Able to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as collaborate with a team when required. A strong safety mindset and attention to detail are essential.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Pay Rate: $25.00 – $28.00 per hour , commensurate with experience and skill level. Overtime pay (1.5x) is provided for any hours over 40 per week.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for the employee (with family coverage options). Benefits begin on the first day of the month after hire.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions up to 4% of your salary. You’ll be eligible to enroll after 60 days of employment, with immediate vesting in matching funds.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO including paid vacation days , paid company holidays , and sick leave. (Approximately 2 weeks vacation to start, increasing with tenure, plus ~8 paid holidays annually.)
• Additional Benefits: Company-paid life and AD&D insurance , and short-term disability coverage.

Work Schedule:

• Hours: This is a full-time, first-shift position (daytime hours). Standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM . Occasional overtime may be scheduled on weekdays or Saturdays based on production needs (notice will be given). We strive to maintain work-life balance while meeting our customers’ deadlines.
• Work Environment: You will be working in our fabrication shop in Grand Rapids, which is a climate-controlled, well-lit facility equipped with modern welding stations and lifting equipment. Expect a fast-paced environment where safety and quality are top priorities. We provide lockers and a break room for employees, and the shop has adequate ventilation and fume extraction at welding stations.

How to Apply:
If you are ready to take the next step in your fabrication career , we encourage you to apply! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line “Fabricator/Welder Application – [Your Name]”. Qualified candidates will be contacted to schedule a hands-on weld test and interview.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Thank you for considering a career with our team – we look forward to reviewing your application!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person