Production Pipe Welder in Atlanta, Georgia at McKenney's Inc.

Job Summary
The Production Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding and fabrication tasks in a fast-paced shop environment. This role requires proficiency in multiple welding processes, the ability to accurately interpret technical drawings, and strict adherence to industry codes (such as AWS and ASME) and safety standards. The primary focus is on the efficient fabrication of piping spools, structural supports, and other components used in commercial, industrial, and high-tech mechanical systems.

Key Responsibilities
Welding and Fabrication

1. Perform Welding Operations: Execute various welding techniques, including but not limited to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG).
2. Material Expertise: Weld a variety of materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloys, using appropriate procedures and filler metals.
3. Component Assembly: Fit, tack, and weld complex assemblies (e.g., pipe spools, equipment skids, structural frames) according to detailed specifications and dimensions.
4. Blueprint Interpretation: Read and accurately interpret blueprints, schematics, welding symbols, and written specifications to determine the proper layout and welding requirements.
5. Material Preparation: Prepare materials for welding by cutting, grinding, deburring, and positioning components using manual and automated tools (e.g., plasma cutters, oxy-acetylene torches, grinders, pipe bevelers).

Quality and Safety

1. Quality Control: Inspect finished welds to ensure they meet quality standards, tolerance requirements, and code specifications (e.g., penetration, bead size, structural integrity).
2. Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to all company and OSHA safety policies, including the use of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and proper handling of hazardous materials and hot work
3. Troubleshooting: Identify and correct welding defects (e.g., porosity, undercut, lack of fusion) and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions.

Operations

1. Productivity: Maintain high levels of productivity and efficiency while ensuring the quality of work is not compromised.
2. Documentation: Complete required production logs, and time sheets accurately.
3. Collaboration: Work effectively with fitters, fabricators, and the shop management team to prioritize tasks and meet production deadlines.

Required Qualifications
Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Completion of an accredited welding or fabrication vocational program is highly preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in production welding, preferably in mechanical systems, industrial piping, or structural fabrication.

Skills and Certifications

• Welding Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to perform high-quality welds in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead).
• Certifications: Current or ability to pass welding qualification tests in relevant procedures (e.g., ASME Section IX for pipe, AWS D1.1 for structural steel). Experience with 6G pipe welding is a significant asset.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in reading standard fabrication drawings, isometric drawings, and understanding Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
• Math Skills: Strong basic mathematical skills necessary for measurement, calculation of material requirements, and layout.
• Tool Usage: Expertise in operating standard shop tools, measuring devices (tape measures, calipers, squares), and material handling equipment (overhead cranes, forklifts – certification preferred).

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Ability to stand, walk, crouch, and kneel for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds frequently.
• Manual dexterity required for manipulating welding torches, hand tools, and materials.
• Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work in an environment with exposure to noise, heat, sparks, and fumes, utilizing appropriate PPE.

McKenney's is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

Moving Safety Forward, our initiative for continuous improvements in our safety culture, reminds us that we are on a journey toward a zero-incident culture. In all we do, we must work to build a partnership with our employees, customers and business associates that empowers them all with the ability to do their jobs safely.

McKenney’s is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to workforce diversity. Qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to age, color, religion, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or gender identity. McKenney’s is a smoke-free and drug-free workplace.