Fabricator Development Trainee

PDM; Carlisle (IA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

PDM is seeking an entry-level Fabricator Trainee to learn structural steel fabrication and welding through a structured training program. This hands-on role requires no prior fabrication experience and emphasizes safety, teamwork, and growth.

Applicants should be able to perform physical tasks, work outdoors year-round, and commit to learning and contributing daily. Training will cover shop skills and progressive responsibilities within the production team.

Qualifications

• Team-oriented mindset required.
• Strong attention to safety.
• Basic math skills required.
• Shop class/industrial experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to perform physical tasks (lift up to 75 lbs) and work outdoors year-round.

Responsibilities

• Take personal ownership of safety and follow procedures.
• Respect tools, materials, equipment, and teammates.
• Be willing to learn, accept feedback, and apply corrections.
• Approach tasks with focus, curiosity and attention to detail.
• Be reliable with attendance, punctuality and preparedness.
• Communicate progress, questions or mistakes to supervisors.
• Contribute to a respectful, team-oriented shop culture.
• Take accountability for mistakes and seek continuous improvement.

Skills

Team-oriented

Safety awareness

Basic math

Shop class experience

Physical stamina

Outdoor work

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Reports to: Production Supervisor / Training Lead

Position Summary: This is an entry-level, hands-on training role for individuals interested in a career in structural steel fabrication and welding. Fabricator Trainees will learn fundamental shop skills through a structured training program. No prior fabrication experience is required.

Adhere To PDM’s Core Values

• Relationship Building: We foster long-term positive relationships with fellow employee-owners, external partners and our communities.
• Accountability: We consistently demonstrate a high level of personal accountability.
• Urgency: We operate with a sense of urgency.
• Innovation: We embrace growth and change.
• Create Return on Efforts: We create positive results on all our efforts.
• Pillars: 1) Safety, 2) Quality, 3) Happiness, 4) Performance

Responsibilities And Areas Of Accountability

• Take personal ownership of safety, follow all procedures, and speak up about unsafe conditions
• Respect tools, materials, equipment, and teammates at all times
• Show a strong willingness to learn, accept feedback, and apply corrections
• Approach new tasks with focus, curiosity, and attention to detail
• Be reliable through consistent attendance, punctuality, and preparedness
• Show up ready to work, learn, and contribute every day
• Communicate progress, questions, or mistakes promptly to supervisors
• Contribute positively to a respectful, team-oriented shop culture
• Take accountability for mistakes and stay open to continuous improvement

Requirements

Knowledge & Skills:

• Team-oriented mindset
• Strong attention to safety
• Basic math skills
• Preferred (Not Required) Shop class, construction, manufacturing, labor experience
• Applicants must be able to walk and stand on feet for extended period of time, lift, push and pull up to 75 lbs, crawl on hands and knees, climb a ladder, and be able to work long hours.
• This position works outdoors year-round and therefore subject to all weather conditions, sometimes to include extreme cold and heat.

Education: High school diploma or GED **Or currently in enrolled high school

Experience: No prior fabrication experience required but is preferred.

DISCLAIMER

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

PDM is an Equal Opportunity Employer