Tacker (Fabrication Shop) in Baytown, Texas at Preferred Industrial Contractors, Inc.

Job Summary:

The Tacker is responsible for preparing, aligning, and temporarily securing piping, structural components, or other metal assemblies prior to final welding or installation. This role supports pipefitters, welders, and boilermakers by “tacking” components in place using welding techniques to ensure proper fit-up and alignment. The Tacker works under the supervision of journeymen or foremen and plays a critical role in maintaining quality, safety, and productivity on industrial construction sites.

Key Responsibilities:

• Measure, align, and temporarily join pipes, structural steel, or equipment components using tack welds.
• Assist in layout and fit-up of piping, vessels, and mechanical systems according to blueprints and isometric drawings.
• Maintain proper alignment, spacing, and clearance for final welds or installations.
• Support welders and fitters by holding, positioning, and stabilizing materials.
• Operate welding equipment safely and efficiently, following specified procedures and codes.
• Inspect tack welds to ensure they meet alignment and quality requirements.
• Maintain organized and clean work areas, including proper storage of materials and tools.
• Adhere to all company and site safety regulations, including PPE and hot work procedures.
• Assist with rigging, hoisting, and material handling as required.
• Participate in training to improve welding and fit-up skills under supervision.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience in industrial construction, welding, or piping preferred.
• Familiarity with basic welding techniques and hand/power tools.

Skills & Competencies:

• Basic welding skills and understanding of tack welding processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, isometric drawings, and welding symbols.
• Mechanical aptitude and good hand-eye coordination.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and willingness to learn from journeymen.
• Commitment to safety and adherence to site procedures.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and carry up to 75 lbs regularly.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, crouch, and climb for extended periods.
• Must be able to work at heights and in confined spaces when required.
• Ability to work in hot, cold, noisy, and dusty industrial environments.
• Must be able to wear and properly use PPE, including hard hat, gloves, safety glasses, welding helmet, steel-toe boots, and fall protection.
• Manual dexterity and physical endurance to perform repetitive tacking and alignment tasks.
• Must be able to pass any required drug/alcohol screening.
• Must be able to work extended hours, including nights, weekends, and travel, as project needs demand.

Work Environment:

• Industrial construction and maintenance sites, including refineries, power plants, and fabrication shops.
• Exposure to welding fumes, sparks, and noise during tack welding and fit-up operations.
• Requires teamwork with pipefitters, welders, boilermakers, and other trades in fast-paced, project-driven conditions